Hot runner molds require a new level of expertise on the part of the mold maker. However, this does not mean that it is overly complicated or highly specialized. A well designed system is relatively free from maintenance, once it is properly installed.

It can, and does happen, that plastic mold makers become frustrated with hot runnermolds and swear that they are too much trouble. This is usually due to the fact that the hot runner system is not properly installed or incorrectly operated in the injection molding process.

The leading hot runner system manufacturers have a well-trained team of specialists on hand to assist in the proper installation and operation of the systems. The time spent listening to these specialists is time well spent!

Are there different types of hot runner systems?

There are almost as many types of hot runner systems as there are suppliers! Most share some common features, however. There are sprue gated systems, valve gates, tip gates (the most common), and edge gates. Any of the major suppliers can describe in great detail why their system is the best for your application. Hot runner systems are some of the most important plastic mold components

Long term benefits:

Even though there is an initial investment with hot runnermolds, it is easy to justify the long-term benefits. Without increasing the complexity of the design of the plastic mold, a hot runner molds can significantly reduce costs. Because the hot runner system is designed and manufactured independently, yet concurrently, the lead times are not affected.

Plastic mold makers should always suggest methods for his customer to reduce injection molding costs and increase the output of the plastic mold. Being knowledgeable with hot runner molds is a good way to demonstrate an active role in helping the plastic molders bottom line. This in turn makes the likelihood of increased business even greater for the hot runner mold maker.