Dry Ice Blasting – Injection Moulds
Dry ice blasting is a cleaning process that uses solid carbon dioxide (CO2) pellets, known as dry ice, to remove contaminants from surfaces. It can be an effective method for cleaning injection mould tools, as it offers several advantages over traditional cleaning techniques. Here’s how dry ice blasting can be used for injection mould tools:
1. Non-abrasive cleaning: Dry ice blasting is a non-abrasive method, meaning it won’t damage the surface of the mould tool. This is crucial because injection mould tools are precision instruments, and any damage could affect their performance and lifespan.
2. Efficient cleaning: The pressurized dry ice pellets are propelled at high speeds, creating a kinetic energy that helps remove contaminants like mold release agents, residues, oils, and other debris from the mold surface. The combination of the cold temperature (-78.5°C or -109.3°F) and the impact of the pellets causes the contaminants to shrink and crack, making them easier to remove.
3. No secondary waste: Dry ice pellets sublime upon impact, meaning they convert from a solid to a gas, leaving no residue behind. This eliminates the need for additional cleaning steps to remove cleaning agents or waste materials. It also reduces the downtime required for mold cleaning and preparation.
4. Environmentally friendly: Dry ice blasting is an eco-friendly cleaning method because it doesn’t involve the use of chemicals or solvents. The carbon dioxide used in the process is a byproduct of other industrial processes and is recycled, minimizing environmental impact.
5. Mould tool preservation: Dry ice blasting can effectively clean even complex mould geometries, such as intricate cavities and cooling channels, without causing damage. By removing contaminants, it helps maintain the mould’s performance, extends its lifespan, and reduces the risk of defects in moulded parts.