Guide / Hot Runners

Hot Runner Systems: Valve vs Thermal vs Open Gate

Selecting the right hot runner for your mold

Gate Types

TypeGate VestigeCycle TimeMaterialCost
Valve GateMinimal (0.1mm)FasterAll thermoplasticsHigh
Thermal Gate0.3-1.0mmMediumFree-flowing onlyMedium
Open Gate1-3mm (manual trim)MediumNon-technical partsLow

Tips

Valve gate: essential for cosmetic parts (no gate mark), nylon PA+GF, sequential fill for weld line control. Thermal gate: PP,PE,POM only. Never use on PVC or flame-retardant materials.