You want your investment in water-based mold releases to be as efficient and cost-effective as possible. As you’re QC testing your line for adding a new mold release agent, it’s vital to go over every possible consideration that could alter the mold release agents you apply to your equipment.
Our experts will discuss some factors that can change the effectiveness of mold release agents to give you the best outcomes for your industrial processes.
1. Mold Surface
A smooth and polished mold surface will require less mold release agent compared to a rough and porous surface. Rough surfaces can create a lot of friction and resistance when trying to remove the molded part, which may require a higher amount of release agent to reduce the friction.
As a corollary, the mold material can alter the effectiveness of the mold release agent. For instance, a mold made from aluminum will require a different mold release agent compared to a mold made from steel because aluminum is more porous. What the mold is made of will change the amount of mold release you need to apply.
2. Mold Temperature
The operational temperature of the mold can affect the viscosity of the release agent and the amount of release agent required. A mold that is too hot can cause the release agent to evaporate quickly, while a mold that is too cold can cause the release agent to become too thick and difficult to apply. The same is true with the temperature of the molded part.
Temperatures outside of the normal range can lead to defective SKUs, loss of raw materials, and too much downtime, not to mention the added labor costs of cleaning the mold.
3. Type of Mold Release Agent
You’ve got choices among silicone-based, wax-based, and water-based mold release agents. The type of release agent on your equipment will depend on the type of mold, the molded part, and the manufacturing process.
For instance, a silicone-based mold release agent may be more effective for a mold with a smooth and polished surface, while a wax-based mold release agent might work better on rough surfaces. Water-based mold release agents do not leave residue on the molded part, lowering your labor costs and improving SKUs.
4. Application Method
Common methods of applying mold releases include spraying, brushing, and wiping. The process you need depends on the type of mold release you have.
Spraying is the most common method of application, as it allows for even distribution of the release agent. Brushing and wiping are often used for molds with complex surfaces or hard-to-reach areas. However, these methods may require more release agent compared to spraying.
5. Contamination
Contamination is probably the least-known and least-thought-of factor that alters the effectiveness of your mold release agent. Contamination can occur when the mold release agent is mixed with other substances such as dirt, dust, or oil. It also happens when you don’t properly clean the mold before reapplication.
World-Class Water-Based Mold Release Agents
EZ-Kote has more than 30 years of experience with water-based mold releases. Talk to our team about the right formula for your requirements based on your industrial process.
Contact EZ-Kote or call (770) 720-1811 for more details. We’ll respond within 24 hours.