The lubrication system of the injection molding machine maintenance is an important part of ensuring the normal operation of the equipment and extending its service life.
Injection molding lube is an indispensable part of the injection molding process. Its main function is to reduce the friction between the mold and the slider, improve the service life of the mold and the quality of the product. In the injection molding process, the selection and use of injection moulding lube are crucial because they directly affect the operating efficiency of the mold and the surface quality of the final product.
Injection molding lubrication systems are generally divided into three main types: mold lubrication system, injection molding machine transmission parts lubrication system and injection molding machine guide rod lubrication system.
The following are nine steps and precautions for the maintenance and of the lubrication system of the injection molding machine:
Regularly check the oil level and oil quality:
It is necessary to regularly check the oil level of the lubricating oil tank to ensure sufficient oil and test the quality of the lubricant. If the lubricant founds to contaminate or deteriorate, then it should replace in time.
Check the oil level regularly
- Frequently check the central lubrication system for sufficient oil and ensure the oil tank maintains the proper level
- It is recommended to check the oil level monthly and change the oil after the equipment has been idle for at least 30 minutes.
Inspection Frequency Differences
Some evidence recommends quarterly inspections, but other scenarios call for more frequent lubrication, such as every two months. This frequency should be adjusted based on equipment usage intensity.
Cleanliness Requirements
Lubricating oil must be clean and free of impurities to avoid lubrication failure due to contamination.
Oil Performance Maintenance
Hydraulic oil should maintain the temperature and viscosity recommended by the supplier.
Regularly clean the lubrication system
Especially the filter oil pipe and other parts to ensure the cleanliness of the lubricating oil. If serious oil stains are found, the filter and oil pipe need to be replaced in time.
Inject cleaning agent
Inject a specialized cleaning agent into the lubrication system. Start the machine and run it for a while to allow the cleaning agent to flow through all lubrication points (such as guide rails, hinges, and injection molding platforms) and dissolve any remaining oil.
Rinse repeatedly
- After draining the cleaning agent, flush the system repeatedly with clean water until no residue remains.
- Please focus on cleaning the suction filter of the electric lubrication pump to remove any impurities.
Check the oil lines and components
Check the oil pipes and nozzles for blockages or leaks, and replace any damaged parts promptly.
Ensure that transparent oil lines (such as the central lubrication system at the hinge) are unobstructed and undamaged.
Manual Lubrication Test
Test the dispensing valve to see if it pops out/resets properly. Verify that all lubrication points (ejector pins, guide pins, etc.) are covered with a film of oil to avoid over-lubrication (to prevent dust absorption).
Lubrication setting parameters
Under normal use, it recommends to drain the oil for 3-5 seconds every 10 injection cycles. Thats to keep the lubrication system operating normally.
Cycle and Duration
Lubrication Cycle (Interval): Lubrication intervals are set via computer parameters, typically based on the number of mold openings or a fixed time period.
Lubrication Time per Session
Sufficient time must be allowed to ensure that all lubrication points are fully covered.
Lubrication quantity control
Centralized lubrication systems require the amount of grease to be set for each lubrication.
Replace the lubricating oil and filter element
The lubricating oil needs to replace every four months or 500,000 injection cycles. And the return oil, oil extraction filter element, and oil tank need to be cleaned.
Oil Selection and Addition Requirements
- Use only new oil of the same brand. Never mix old and new oil. This may cause oil deterioration or performance degradation.
- The hydraulic oil level must be maintained above the centerline of the tank gauge. If it falls below the centerline, refill promptly.
Draining the Old Oil
- Operate the machine until the lubricating oil is warm (approximately 50°C) to facilitate complete draining.
- Drain the old oil through the oil pan drain hole or suction hose.
Cleaning the Oil Tank
When changing the oil, thoroughly clean the oil tank to prevent any impurities.
Adding New Oil
Fill the oil level gauge between the “High” and “Low” lines to avoid overfilling or underfilling.
Check and maintain lubrication points
Including lubrication points of the injection unit, mold part, and mechanical transmission system. Use an appropriate lubricant to ensure smooth operation of all parts.
Daily Inspection
- Check that all lubrication points (such as tie rods, slides, hinges, and mold adjustment devices) are adequately greased to ensure there is no dry friction.
- Check lubrication point identification stickers (if any) to confirm the lubrication interval and recommended lubricant type.
Manual Lubrication
- Clean the grease nipple before injecting grease to prevent contaminants.
- Wipe off excess grease after lubrication to prevent buildup.
Automatic Lubrication
Lubrication cycles and times are set via an industrial computer to ensure adequate lubrication duration.
Check the dispenser indicator daily to ensure proper extension and retraction to confirm the lubrication system is functioning properly.
Daily maintenance:
Check whether the central lubrication system is working properly every day, and keep the injection molding machine and its surrounding environment clean.
Selection and storage of lubricating grease
select suitable lubricating oil or grease, and pay attention to storage conditions, such as avoiding direct sunlight, keeping sealed, etc., to prevent grease from deteriorating.
Regularly lubricate specific parts
such as locking screw bearings, mold adjustment nuts, injection seat moving bearings, etc. The amount of lubrication each time depends on the actual situation, usually 2-5ml per month, and lubrication is performed at least once every three months or half a year.
Monitor lubrication status
If the control panel has a lubrication fault alarm, it may cause by insufficient oil in the lubricating oil tank or leakage in the lubrication pipeline. Grease should add or repaire in time.
Haichen injection molding machine
We are Haichen, one injection molding machines manufacturer for more than 10 years. We produce high-quality clamping units, they can ensure our injection molding machine improves production efficiency and injection precision.
The maintenance of the lubrication system of the injection molding machine is an important part of ensuring the normal operation of the equipment and extending its service life. Through the above measures, The lubrication system of the injection molding machine maintenance can effectively maintaine to ensure its efficient and stable operation.
Haichen is one Chinese injection molding machine manufacturer. Our servo energy saving injection molding machines quality under CE safety standards certificated.
Haichen have rich experience of producing plastic products, with successfully cases for your reference. We can supply complete production line as per customer’s specific demand.
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