Optimization of reaction injection molding machines using measurement techniques

Molded parts produced from polyurethane are now widely used for various applications.

Molded parts produced from polyurethane are now widely used for various applications. The moldings are manufactured using the high-pressure reaction molding process where high investment in molding machines and tools is required. In order to justify this degree of capital investment, high precision in the mechanical parts, the assembly of the machine and in the machine's operational movements are essential, since the quality of the product depends upon these factors.

The article describes how precision displacement measurements are made on production machines, giving information on the important dynamic quality criteria of tool slides and tools. The data can be used for the optimization of the complete molding process. Displacements up to 1900 mm with a resolution of 0.01 mm were measured with inductive displacement transducers at velocities up to 15 m/s.