7.4.1 Die Heaters
To maximize the density of heat input to the cavity inserts, the complex-shaped cartridge heaters shown in Figure 7.4.1.1 are recommended. The use of these complex-shaped cartridge heaters allows maximization of heat input to the die inserts, while avoiding die components such as ejector pins and mounting bolts. The cartridge heaters shown in Figure 7.4.1.1 were produced by Hotset in Germany, which has sales offices in 34 countries around the world. Contact information for Hotset is given
here.
Figure 7.4.1.1: Complex-shaped electric cartridge heaters used to maximize heat input to the cavity inserts
Straight cartridge heaters can also be utilized, and these are also available with their leads attached at 90o (see Figure 7.4.1.2), so the heaters can be embedded deep into the die inserts.
Figure 7.4.1.2: Photograph of an electric cartridge heater with the leads attached at 90o, so the heater can be embedded deeply into the die
7.4.2 Insulation
To allow the cavity inserts to be pre-heated above 600oC, insulation must be placed between the pre-heated inserts and the die holder, to prevent the larger holder from robbing the heat from the smaller cavity inserts. One type of insulation that is recommended is an insulation board called K-Therm AS 600 M (see Figure 7.4.2.1.), which is produced by AGK Hochleistungswerkstoffe GmbH, located in Dortmund, Germany. Contact information for AGK Hochleistungswerkstoffe GmbH is given
here.
Figure 7.4.2.1: Photograph of the K-Therm AS 600 M insulation used between the die inserts and the die holders, to minimize heat loss from the inserts
7.4.3 Die Temperature Controllers
Figure 7.4.3.1 shows a photograph of a controller for regulating the pre-heat temperature of the die and die inserts. This eight-channel unit is produced by Xintech, Switzerland.
Figure 7.4.3.1: Photograph of a Xintech die temperature controller
The temperature of the pre-heated dies and die inserts can be monitored by inserting bayonet-style thermocouples into the die. Bayonet-style thermocouples, also manufactured by Xintech in Switzerland, are shown in Figure 7.4.3.2. Similar style thermocouples are available in North America from companies such as Omega.
Figure 7.4.3.2: Photograph of a bayonet-style thermocouple used to measure pre-heat temperatures.
In addition, thermocouples with analog displays can be attached to the surface of the die holder or cavity inserts, to provide a direct reading of die pre-heat temperature (see Figure 7.4.3.3).
Figure 7.4.3.3: Photograph of a thermocouple and analog thermocouple read-out attached to the surface of the die, measuring the temperature of the holder
Contact information for Xintech and Omega is listed
here.
7.4.4 Contact Information
