Cavity Insert Wedges

Self-Locking Taper Mechanics

Insert wedges typically utilize a 3° to 5° taper. This shallow angle creates a high mechanical advantage, converting vertical clamping force from a screw into massive lateral locking force. This ensures the insert is pressed firmly against the datum surfaces of the pocket, completely eliminating the micro-gaps that cause flashing.

Thermal Expansion Compensation

During molding, the insert block heats up and expands. If rigidly pinned, this causes stress fractures. A wedge lock allows the insert to remain perfectly registered against its datum edge while the wedge absorbs dimensional variations on the non-datum side through slight vertical slippage.