Mold Components Pages 49 to 62 Speed Mold Build Time with Latch Locks Images courtesy of Hasco America Inc. By Brenda Clark Here is a look and functions of internal and side-mounting latch-lock devices that help to reduce mold build times and increase safety: . The latch pull rod and housing of an internally-mount-ed latch lock system allows the actuation of the split lines in sequence without using springs. For example, a second part-ing line remains closed while the irst parting line is activat-ed. Once the irst opening is achieved, the pulled plate locks and the second parting line activates to strip or Latch sizing considerations eject the part. include mold size, required . Internal latch lock systems with a small stripping forces, opening footprint allow use in and closing requirements designs without add-in the press and actual ing to the mold base’s overall length by width, required strokes. while also activating multiple mold parting line openings. . Internal latch lock systems with floating plates that do not require further plate locking allow molds to actuate multiple split openings fast and accurately. . The following sequence is recommended for a pulling system: Both plates (or sets of plates) move forward, the latch lock unlocks, the rear plate stops and the front plate moves the rest of the stroke. This sequence allows the front Compact round latch lock units defi ne movement and latching with collision protection. plate to strip or eject parts on inal movement while the plate or plates are not locked in place. . The following sequence is recommended for a pushing system: Both plates (or sets of plates) move forward, the rear plate or plates unlock, the front plate stays in place as the rear plate moves forward, and the plates do not lock in position. . Designs using central multipoint locking roller balls around the circumference of an internal latch lock system in fast-running molds align the mold with any offsets due to misalignment by thermal expansion. . Rolling steel balls (not rollers or springs directly at the latch locking actuation location) achieve low-wear stroke guidance on stroke movement at the plate opening using a free gap principle. . Integrated collision protection keeps reaction forces from impacting the latch lock. The rear of the latch lock has an internal spring design that cushions the center actuation sleeve moving around the control pin. The steel roller balls run along the outer diameter of the center actuation sleeve, allowing the center sleeve to move freely and with speed. . A compact design eases the installation of complex plate movement within the mold base, resulting in safer mold transport and storage and more space for other neces-sary components. . Latch sizing considerations include mold size, required stripping forces, opening and closing requirements in the press and actual required strokes. FOR MORE INFORMATION Round latch locking unit for precise opening of a second mold parting line in injection molds. Hasco America Inc. / 877-427-2662 / hasco.com Brenda Clark, Engineering Manager 62 MoldMaking Mo Technology T — — JU JULY 2021