Slow Cycle Time

Die casting dies which operate at a slow cycle time have a number of negative aspects.

In the first place, the cost of the component is higher. Because the cost of any Die Casting machine translates to a cost per hour, the fewer parts made per hour, the higher the cost per part.

But there is another negative effect which is self-reinforcing. A slower cycle puts less heat into the surface of the die cavity per hour. So it often requires additional heat from a hot oil device to keep the temperature up. This in turn prevents the die from being able to run at a faster rate.

All this can happen without anyone being aware of the negative feedback loop.

The causes of slow cycle time can often be traced back to the original die design. If the heat extracted from each separate region of the die is not in balance with the heat input, then the temperatures will change accordingly. The cycle time then becomes dictated by the hottest region of the die.

Thick runners are also a common cause of long cycle time. The runners should be sized to achieve the required molten metal flow rate in litres per second, but nothing more.

Cooling channel location, coolant type and cooling control system, or lack of it, all have an impact on the cycle time.

If you need some help to improve die cycle time, contact HotFlo! today.