This review discusses mold sticking and fouling — two of the most prevalent problems faced by molded plastics manufacturers worldwide. These problems can cause serious scheduling interruptions and resulting loss of revenue. This review first discusses mold release and then addresses mold fouling. Significant material and process variables are considered first, followed by practical guidance on the selection of release agents and surface treatments. Advice on mold cleaning is also offered. 402 references, with abstracts, are included.

From the Introduction: “...An intrinsic problem with polymer moulding, which limits production rates, is the difficulty of removing the moulding from the mould. With some materials the problem of mould release is never far away, with most materials it is sporadic. The drive for shorter moulding cycles aggravates the problem, which is sometimes so bad as to seriously hinder the introduction of automated removal of the moulded product...”

Rapra Review Reports contain a brief overview of the topic, followed by extensive references, with abstracts, from the Polymer Library database. They serve as condensed, valuable research tools for scientists, technologists, and other researchers working with rubber or plastics materials.

Table of Contents:

Introduction

The Underlying Causes of Mould Sticking and Fouling

Investigations into Mould Release and Fouling

Practical Aspects of Mould Release and Fouling

Conclusions

Additional References

References from the Polymer Library Database

Subject Index