Injection molding is one of the most widely used manufacturing processes in India’s plastic industry. However, many manufacturers overlook a key practice that ensures machine efficiency and product quality—the proper use of purging material. Using the right Purging Compound can significantly reduce contamination, minimize downtime, and ensure smooth material and color transitions. For manufacturers looking to boost productivity, understanding how to use Purging Compound for Injection Molding machines is essential.
Why Purging is Necessary
Purging is the process of cleaning internal components of the injection molding machine—such as barrels, screws, and nozzles—by using a specially formulated Purging Compound. It’s particularly crucial during resin or color changes, and before shutting down the machine. Without proper purging, residual contaminants can degrade the quality of the next production run, leading to waste and operational inefficiencies.
Selecting the Right Purging Compound
The Indian market offers different types of Purging Compound—mechanical, chemical, and hybrid. Your choice depends on machine specifications, resin types, and the kind of contamination you face:
- Mechanical Purging: Uses the physical scrubbing action of a high-viscosity resin to clean out residue.
- Chemical Purging: Involves chemical reactions to dissolve build-up inside the barrel.
- Hybrid Purging: Combines both mechanical and chemical actions for maximum cleaning.
UNICLEANPLUS recommends testing free samples before selecting the right compound to ensure compatibility with your process.
Maintain the Correct Temperature
For purging to be effective, it must be done at the same temperature as the production resin. Avoid adjusting the temperature significantly, as it may reduce the cleaning efficiency. Always refer to both your resin and Purging Compound temperature guidelines for best results.
Step-by-Step Purging Procedure
To correctly purge an injection molding machine:
- Stop feeding the production resin.
- Add the Purging Compound to the hopper.
- Run the machine in manual mode, producing short shots until the purging material extrudes clean.
- Repeat the process until all visible traces of the previous material or color are gone.
- Flush with a small amount of the new resin if switching materials, to remove any residual purge.
Standardize and Document the Process
Many Indian manufacturers suffer from inconsistent purging routines, which can reduce efficiency. To address this, create a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for purging and train your staff accordingly. Keep logs of purge schedules, materials used, and cleaning results to monitor and improve your maintenance routine.
Final Thoughts
Using a High-quality Purging Compound from UNICLEANPLUS not only helps maintain your injection molding equipment but also reduces defects, improves product consistency, and extends machine lifespan. It’s a cost-effective strategy that pays off in both productivity and quality.
Call +91 9021232809 today to request your free sample or place an order with UNICLEANPLUS—the trusted name in Purging Compound for Injection Molding machines.