Injection Molding Defects & Troubleshooting Guide

Injection molding defects are costly and time-consuming. Understanding their root causes and solutions is essential for maintaining quality production in Chinese mold shops.

Common Defects & Solutions

DefectAppearanceRoot CauseSolution
FlashThin excess material at parting lineClamp force too low, mold wearIncrease clamp force, repair mold
Sink MarksSurface depression near ribs/bossesInsufficient pack pressure, thick sectionsIncrease hold time, redesign wall thickness
Weld LinesVisible line where flow fronts meetMelt temperature too low, poor ventingRaise melt temp, improve venting
Short ShotIncomplete fillInsufficient injection pressure/volumeIncrease injection pressure, check shot size
WarpagePart distortionUneven cooling, molecular orientationBalance cooling, reduce hold pressure
JettingSnake-like flow marksGate size too small, injection speed highWiden gate, reduce injection speed
Burn MarksDiscolored areasTrapped air, excessive melt tempImprove venting, reduce injection speed
Silver StreaksShiny streaks on surfaceMoisture in resin, material degradationDry material properly, lower barrel temp

Prevention Best Practices

Process Window

Define and document the operating window for each mold: melt temperature range, mold temperature, injection speed profile, packing pressure and time, cooling time. Products within the window are quality-controlled; outside requires process adjustment.

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