Collapsible Pipe Injection Mould: Design and Functionality A collapsible pipe injection mould is a specialized tool used in plastic injection molding to produce flexible, collapsible pipes or tubes. These pipes are commonly used in applications requiring compact storage, easy transport, or dynamic movement, such as in medical devices, automotive systems, or portable fluid transfer solutions. The mould must be precisely engineered to ensure consistent product quality, durability, and efficient production. Key Features of the Mould 1. Core and Cavity Design The mould consists of a core (male part) and a cavity (female part) that define the pipe’s shape. For collapsible pipes, the core is often designed with a collapsible or retractable mechanism to allow the pipe to fold or compress. The cavity mirrors the pipe’s outer surface, ensuring smooth walls and uniform thickness. 2. Collapsible Mechanism A unique feature of this mould is its ability to produce pipes that can collapse axially or radially. This is achieved through: - Sliding Core Components: Movable inserts or side actions that retract after molding to release the collapsed sections. - Ejector System: Specialized ejector pins or sleeves that gently push the pipe out without damaging its flexible structure. 3. Cooling System Efficient cooling channels are integrated into the mould to ensure rapid and uniform cooling of the molten plastic. This minimizes cycle times and prevents warping or shrinkage in the finished pipe. 4. Material Considerations The mould is typically made from hardened steel or aluminum to withstand high-pressure injection and repeated use. For flexible pipes, materials like thermoplastic elastomers (TPE) or polyvinyl chloride (PVC) are commonly used, requiring precise temperature and flow control during molding. 5. Venting and Surface Finish Proper venting prevents air traps that could cause defects like burns or incomplete filling. The mould’s surface is polished or textured to achieve the desired finish on the pipe, whether smooth for medical use or ribbed for enhanced flexibility. Production Process 1. Injection: Molten plastic is injected into the mould cavity under high pressure. 2. Cooling: The material solidifies while the collapsible mechanism remains engaged. 3. Ejection: The mould opens, and the collapsible core retracts, allowing the pipe to be ejected in its folded or expanded state. Applications Collapsible pipes made with this mould are used in: - Medical: IV tubing, drainage systems. - Automotive: Fuel or coolant lines. - Consumer Goods: Portable hoses, expandable containers. Conclusion A well-designed collapsible pipe injection mould ensures high precision, efficiency, and product reliability. Its advanced mechanisms and robust construction make it essential for manufacturing flexible piping solutions across industries.