Dehumidification in the plastics industry

The plastics industry is very aware of the problems associated with airborne moisture, from the formation of condensation on moulds to the absorption of moisture by the plastic granules.

Injection and blow molding operations utilize thermoplastics which are heated to plasticity and shaped into forms via use of a mold. The majority of systems employ the use of chilled water to maintain a cold surface on the mold, resulting in a quicker forming time of the component, and thus higher production volumes. In fact, generally the colder the mold, the quicker the cycle time and greater the production outputs.

Operating at low mold temperatures creates problems with condensation on the mold surface, especially during the summer period. This will result in unacceptable water marks on the product and corrosion on expensive molds and guide pins, necessitating repair or even replacement.

This problem of sweating can easily be overcome by simply increasing the mold surface temperature. This however will not be the preferred choice as it will mean increasing the cycle time of the components and decreasing output. By incorporating a dehumidifier, mold temperature of 41°F or lower can be achieved, without the risk of sweating.

Greater production output
Due to low mold temperatures, quicker cycle times will be achieved, and in certain cases, reduction in excess of 30% are attainable, resulting in greater production output, irrespective of external ambient conditions.

Storing the raw material
When storing the raw material, normally plastic granules in silos, it is important to protect these against moisture damage. Also pneumatic systems can benefit from dry air, avoiding mold and the products sticking together. With a Seibu Giken DST dehumidifier, can you control the relative humidity in the whole production line.

Dry air can also be used when storing molds. No need to put in time and effort in greasing the molds -they are kept free from corrosion when the relative humidity is below 50%.