UPVC Reducing Socket Pipe Fitting Mold: Technical Description A UPVC reducing socket pipe fitting mold is a precision-engineered tool designed for manufacturing tapered pipe connectors used in plumbing, drainage, and industrial fluid systems. These fittings enable seamless transitions between pipes of different diameters, ensuring leak-proof connections in UPVC (unplasticized polyvinyl chloride) piping networks. The mold must meet stringent standards for dimensional accuracy, durability, and surface finish to produce high-quality fittings compliant with international specifications (e.g., ISO, ASTM). Design and Structure The mold typically consists of multiple components: 1. Core and Cavity: The core forms the inner diameter (ID) of the fitting, while the cavity shapes the outer diameter (OD). Both are machined from high-grade tool steel (e.g., P20, H13) hardened to withstand UPVC’s abrasive melt flow. 2. Guiding System: Precision guide pins and bushings ensure alignment between mold halves, critical for maintaining concentricity in the tapered socket. 3. Cooling Channels: Strategically placed channels circulate coolant to regulate mold temperature, minimizing cycle time and preventing warpage. 4. Ejection Mechanism: Air vents and ejector pins facilitate smooth demolding of the fitting without surface defects. 5. Sliders or Lifters: For complex geometries (e.g., undercuts), retractable sliders enable mold release. Manufacturing Process 1. Material Selection: UPVC granules are fed into an injection molding machine, heated to 180–210°C, and injected into the mold under high pressure (800–1,500 bar). 2. Molding Cycle: The molten UPVC fills the cavity, cools, and solidifies. Cycle times range from 20–60 seconds, depending on fitting size. 3. Post-Processing: Flash removal, deburring, and quality checks (e.g., dimensional inspection, pressure testing) ensure compliance. Key Features - Tapered Design: The socket’s internal taper (typically 1:6 or 1:10) ensures a tight interference fit with pipes. - Corrosion Resistance: UPVC’s chemical inertness makes the fittings suitable for aggressive fluids. - Smooth Finish: Polished mold surfaces (Ra ≤ 0.8 µm) prevent sticking and improve flow efficiency. Applications Common in residential plumbing, sewage systems, and chemical processing plants, these fittings are valued for their lightweight, cost-effectiveness, and long service life. Quality Assurance Molds undergo rigorous testing, including trial runs and CAD/CAM simulations, to verify dimensional tolerances (±0.05 mm) and pressure resistance (up to 16 bar). Conclusion A well-designed UPVC reducing socket mold ensures consistent production of reliable fittings, balancing precision, efficiency, and durability to meet global piping standards.