Standard vs. Custom Locating Rings: When Off-the-Shelf Isn't Enough
Key Takeaway: Standard locating rings in ø100, ø120, ø150, and ø200 mm cover 90% of machines. Order custom only when your platen hole is non-standard, the ring needs special height, or you require an integrated ring-bushing design.
Standard vs Custom Comparison
| Feature | Standard | Custom |
|---|---|---|
| OD options | ø100, ø120, ø150, ø200, ø250 mm | Any diameter to order |
| Height options | Fixed standard heights (10, 15, 20 mm) | Any height to specification |
| ID options | Standard series matching common bushing flanges | Any ID to specification |
| Lead time | In stock, same-day shipment | 3–10 business days |
| Cost | 1.0× (reference) | 1.5–3× |
| Material | S45C (25–30 HRC) | S45C, SKD61, SUS420J2, aluminum |
When Standard Rings Work
Standard locating rings cover the vast majority of applications:
- Your machine platen hole matches a standard ring OD (verify with machine specifications)
- Your sprue bushing flange OD matches a standard ring ID
- Standard ring height (10–20 mm) fits your mold plate layout
- S45C steel is acceptable for your application
When You Need Custom
- Non-standard machine — Older or specialty machines with platen holes that don't match standard ring sizes
- Clearance issues — Hot runner manifolds, hydraulic cylinders, or other components near the sprue location require a non-standard ring height or profile
- Integrated design — A combined locating ring and sprue bushing saves one component and one assembly step
- Special materials — Cleanroom molds needing stainless steel, lightweight prototype molds using aluminum, or high-cycle production requiring hardened SKD61
According to JIS B 5111 standards, locating ring OD tolerance should be h7 for a precise centering fit in the platen hole.
Frequently Asked Questions
When do I need a custom locating ring?+
Custom rings are needed for non-standard platen hole diameters, special height requirements to clear other mold components, integrated ring-bushing designs, or non-standard materials (stainless, aluminum, hardened tool steel).
What are the standard locating ring outer diameters?+
Standard ODs are ø100, ø120, ø150, ø200, and ø250 mm — matching the most common machine platen hole sizes across major brands from 50 to 1,000 ton tonnage range.
Does the locating ring material matter?+
For most applications, standard S45C carbon steel (25–30 HRC) is sufficient. Hardened SKD61 (48 HRC) extends life for high-cycle molds with frequent installation/removal. Stainless steel is used for cleanroom or corrosive environments.
Related Product Categories
Need a Custom Locating Ring?
Provide your platen hole diameter, desired ring height, and material requirement — we will deliver a custom ring in 3–5 business days.
✓ Custom rings in 3–5 days✓ MOQ 1 piece✓ Standard rings in stock