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Undercuts & Plates

High-precision slide mechanisms, angled pins, and guide elements for complex injection molds.

Undercut Components

Which Undercut Mechanism Do You Need?

Direction Decision Tree

Determine the stroke and direction of your side action to configure the correct pin angle and slide length through a systematic decision process.

Step 1: Undercut Direction?

  • External: Proceed to Step 2 for Slide Core selection.
  • Internal: Proceed to Lifter (Loose Core) sizing.
  • Multiple/Complex: Consider mini slide core units or hydraulic cylinders.

Step 2: Space Available?

  • Full slide pocket: Standard Slide Cores + Locking Blocks.
  • Compact: Mini slide cores or direct angled pin actuation.
  • Minimal: Spring-loaded cores or specialized micro-lifters.

Step 3: Force Required?

  • Standard duty: Standard Angled Pins (up to 20°).
  • Heavy duty: Large diameter Angled Cams or Hydraulic Cylinders, paired with robust Locking Blocks.
Rule: The angled pin angle should generally not exceed 25 degrees to prevent bending and excessive wear during actuation. Ensure Step 3 aligns with injection pressure requirements.

Solve a Slide Mechanism Problem

Experiencing galling, flashing, or incomplete strokes? Find the root cause and recommended solution for common slide mechanism failures.

ProblemLikely CauseRecommended Solution
Slide sticking/bindingGalling between sliding surfaces, insufficient lubrication, or unmatched material hardness.Use Oilless Guide Rails and ensure a minimum 10 HRC hardness difference.
Flash at slide parting lineInsufficient locking force backing up the slide against injection pressure.Install heavier-duty Locking Blocks and check wedge angles.
Lifter breakageExcessive ejection force or improper lifter rod angle causing bending moments.Reduce lifter angle or upgrade to larger diameter Loose Cores (Lifters).
Slide not returningWeak return springs or damaged angled pins during mold close.Replace with stronger die springs or check Angled Pins for straightness.
Wear marks on guide railsExcessive friction, lack of lubrication, or debris in the slide pocket.Switch to self-lubricating Slide Plates and implement regular maintenance.
Core shift in undercut areaThermal expansion mismatch or loose cavity inserts.Review Cavity Inserts fit tolerances and thermal management.
Rule: Always use materials with a hardness difference of at least 10 HRC between sliding components to prevent galling. Regular maintenance prevents 80% of binding issues.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an undercut in injection molding?+
An undercut is any indentation or protrusion in a molded part that prevents its straight ejection from the mold. Specialized mechanisms like side actions or lifters are required.
How do slide cores work with angled pins?+
The angled pin, attached to the stationary half, engages the slide core on the moving half. As the mold opens, the pin's angle forces the slide core to move laterally, clearing the undercut.
When should I use a lifter instead of a slide?+
Lifters are generally used for internal undercuts, whereas slides are preferred for external undercuts. Lifters move both forward and laterally during ejection.
What material is best for guide rails?+
Hardened tool steels (like SKS3 or equivalent) are common for high wear resistance. Oilless copper alloys with solid lubricants are excellent for cleanroom or low-maintenance environments.

Engineering Resources

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