U-PVC Collapsible Pipe Injection Mould: Design and Functionality U-PVC (unplasticized polyvinyl chloride) collapsible pipes are widely used in applications requiring lightweight, flexible, and durable fluid transport, such as irrigation, drainage, and portable water systems. The injection mould for manufacturing these pipes must be precisely engineered to ensure high-quality production, dimensional accuracy, and efficient cycle times. Below is a detailed overview of the key aspects of U-PVC collapsible pipe injection moulds. 1. Material Considerations U-PVC is chosen for its rigidity, chemical resistance, and low-temperature flexibility. The mould must withstand high processing temperatures (typically 170–210°C) and pressures while maintaining dimensional stability. High-grade tool steel, such as H13 or P20, is often used for the mould cavity and core to resist wear and corrosion. 2. Mould Design Features - Collapsible Core Mechanism: The mould incorporates a collapsible core or segmented design to facilitate the demoulding of the pipe’s corrugated or ribbed structure. This mechanism allows the core to retract radially, enabling easy ejection without damaging the pipe. - Cooling System: Efficient cooling channels are critical to maintain uniform temperature distribution, reducing cycle times and preventing warping or sink marks. - Venting: Proper venting prevents gas traps, ensuring smooth material flow and minimizing defects like burns or voids. - Ejection System: Pneumatic or hydraulic ejectors are used to remove the pipe gently, avoiding deformation. 3. Manufacturing Process The injection moulding process involves: 1. Material Preparation: U-PVC pellets are dried and fed into the injection unit. 2. Injection: Molten U-PVC is injected into the mould cavity under high pressure. 3. Cooling: The mould cools the pipe to solidify its shape. 4. Ejection: The collapsible core retracts, and ejectors release the finished pipe. 4. Quality Control Precision machining ensures tight tolerances for pipe dimensions, wall thickness, and rib patterns. Post-mould inspections include pressure testing, dimensional checks, and visual inspections for defects. 5. Applications and Advantages U-PVC collapsible pipes are lightweight, resistant to chemicals and UV radiation, and easy to store due to their collapsible nature. The injection mould must produce pipes with consistent flexibility and durability for long-term use. Conclusion A well-designed U-PVC collapsible pipe injection mould balances material properties, precision engineering, and efficient production processes. By optimizing cooling, ejection, and core mechanisms, manufacturers can achieve high output rates while maintaining product quality. This moulding solution is essential for meeting the growing demand for reliable, flexible piping systems across industries. (Word count: 500)