If you’re a manufacturer who deals with several different types of plastics and other materials, you have a lot to take into consideration when determining the best processing methods to use. These varied materials can present unique challenges, depending on the properties and characteristics they exhibit. Heat processing tools are one way to deal with these challenges.

Heat processing tools are usually utilized in conjunction with other processing methods like extrusion or injection molding but may also be utilized alone.

1) Plastic Welding

If you need to repair a plastic part or add another part to it, you could use plastic welding rods and a hot air welder. Plastic welding is also effective for plastic components that are connected to metallic parts, as the plastic and metal may bond together creating a solid connection.

2) Releasing Compounds

When you need to remove a part from its mold, there is always the issue of debind or burn. Heat processing tools can also minimize the amount of debind that occurs on your molds by using releasing compounds and lubricants to help loosen the part from the mold.

3) Clamping and Joining Components

If you want to clamp two components together or add them together with an extra piece of material, heat processing tools help make these modifications quickly.

4) Hot Spot Cutting

You never want to cut through a part that can form a possible source for cutting your fingers. Heat processing tools can help reduce the risk of injury. You can use a cutting torch and heat processing tools to achieve highly precise cuts, just like you would do with a hot blade or quencher.

5) Controlling Bottoms and Faces

Manufacturers who fabricate dies for injection molding, extrusion and plastic welding often need to control the surfaces that are being processed. Heat processing tools are great for this, as they allow complete control over the faces and bottoms of your material.

6) Surface Modification

Since most plastics are made using polymer chains and other chemicals, they can be modified by exposing them to heat. The integration of the chemical reaction that takes place during surface modification can be used to change the properties and characteristics of the plastic.

7) Rotating Parts and Pieces

People who work with many different types of plastics will commonly encounter round parts. This makes them difficult to store. Heat processing tools can help you deal with this issue with their ability to achieve a continuous rotation, and the ability to easily lock the rotation.

8) Precise Heating and Cooling

Industrial equipment that depends on precise temperature control is susceptible to damage when the control system is operating in an environment where the temperature can fluctuate greatly or when the cooling system malfunctions. Heat processing tools allow you to maintain consistent temperatures, which can help you save money while ensuring optimal performance and safety in your systems.

After learning more about the different types of heat processing tools and their applications, you must decide which tool will suit your needs. As a manufacturer, you need the right tools for the job to make sure that you can deliver quality products. You’ll also want to invest in high-quality equipment for maximum reliability and efficiency.