Collapsible Pipe Injection Mould: Design and Functionality A collapsible pipe injection mould is a specialized tool used in plastic injection molding to produce flexible, foldable pipes with precise dimensions and consistent quality. These pipes are commonly used in applications requiring compact storage, easy transport, or temporary fluid transfer, such as in medical devices, irrigation systems, or portable water solutions. The mould must be designed to accommodate the unique structural requirements of collapsible pipes while ensuring durability and efficiency in high-volume production. Key Design Features 1. Core and Cavity Design The mould consists of a core and cavity that form the pipe’s inner and outer surfaces. The core is typically retractable or collapsible to allow the pipe to be ejected without damage. The cavity defines the external shape, including ribs or corrugations that enhance flexibility. 2. Collapsible Mechanism A critical feature is the collapsible core system, which enables the mould to produce pipes that can fold or compress. This mechanism may involve sliding segments, hydraulic/pneumatic actuators, or rotating components that retract the core after molding, allowing the pipe to be easily removed. 3. Cooling System Efficient cooling channels are integrated to ensure uniform cooling and minimize cycle times. Proper cooling prevents warping or deformation, which is crucial for maintaining the pipe’s collapsible functionality. 4. Material Considerations The mould is typically made from hardened steel or aluminum to withstand high-pressure injection and abrasive plastic materials. Common polymers used include polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), or thermoplastic elastomers (TPE), chosen for their flexibility and durability. 5. Ejection System Ejector pins or air-assisted ejection systems are used to remove the finished pipe without damaging its collapsible structure. The ejection process must be smooth to avoid deformation. Production Process 1. Injection – Molten plastic is injected into the mould cavity under high pressure. 2. Cooling – The material solidifies while maintaining the pipe’s collapsible design. 3. Core Retraction – The collapsible mechanism activates to release the pipe. 4. Ejection – The finished pipe is ejected, ready for post-processing if needed. Advantages - Precision – Ensures consistent wall thickness and folding capability. - Efficiency – High-speed production with minimal material waste. - Durability – Robust mould design extends tool life. Applications Collapsible pipes are widely used in medical tubing, emergency water systems, and industrial hoses where space-saving and portability are essential. In summary, a collapsible pipe injection mould combines advanced mechanical design with material science to produce highly functional, space-efficient piping solutions. Its success relies on precision engineering, efficient cooling, and reliable ejection mechanisms to meet industry demands.