In metal machining and molding, the efficiency and quality of the final product depend largely on the choice of lubricants. Among the more sophisticated machining processes, Metal In jection Molding (MIM) stands out for its ability to combine the advantages of powder metallurgy with plastic injection molding. However, this process presents significant challenges, such as handling high temperatures and equipment wear and tear. Specific products such as. Krytox™ GPL227, a high-performance lubricant designed to ensure efficiency and durability under the harshest operating conditions.
The role of lubricants in metalworking
In metalworking, more specifically in the MIM metal molding process, components such as mold guides and ejector pins are critical to ensure mold alignment during injection and cooling, as well as to allow safe removal of molded parts. These components must operate at temperatures between 180 °C and 250 °C, withstanding high pressures and friction. Insufficient lubrication not only compromises process efficiency, but also causes significant equipment damage, resulting in high maintenance costs and extended downtime.
Advantages of Krytox™ GPL227 molding lubricants
Krytox™ GPL227 has proven to be an ideal solution for metalforming applications due to its properties that provide high temperature resistance, wear protection, easy applicability, reduced downtime and a complete absence of bleeding and dripping. An ideal metal grease for metalworking and stamping.
Resistance to high temperatures
Krytox™ GPL227 lubricant is able to maintain its stable chemical structure even at very high operating temperatures. This characteristic makes it ideal for metal stamping and forming processes that generate high and prolonged heat. Because of this strength, it reduces the risk of lubricant degradation, ensuring consistent performance and minimizing the need for frequent reapplications.
Protection from wear and tear
Krytox™ GPL227 effectively protects mold pins and guides from wear and tear, prolonging equipment life. Metal surfaces subjected to high loads and repetitive movements are effectively protected by Krytox™ GPL227, which forms a durable barrier between friction components. This lubricant significantly extends the life of pins, mold guides and other critical parts by preventing micro-cracks, scratches and deformation. This benefit results in reduced equipment replacement and repair costs.
Ease of application
Krytox™ GPL227, designed to simplify maintenance, can be applied precisely and evenly using a simple brush. Its balanced viscosity allows for waste-free application, reducing maintenance time and ensuring even product distribution even on hard-to-reach surfaces.
Reduced downtime
With its superior durability and advanced protection, Krytox™ GPL227 dramatically decreases the frequency of maintenance work and unplanned downtime. This lubricant ensures continuous productivity, reducing operational interruptions and improving the overall work cycle. Increased machine reliability also helps optimize production time and meet deadlines
Absence of bleeding and dripping
One of the common issues with conventional lubricants is oil separation, which can cause unwanted spills, contaminating products or the work environment. Krytox™ GPL227’s advanced formulation prevents bleeding and dripping, keeping surfaces dry and clean even during long work cycles. This aspect improves not only safety but also the quality of the final products.
Case study: Krytox™ GPL227 revolutionizes a metalforming company
A metalforming company in Indonesia was facing frequent pin failures and damage to mold guides due to the absence of an adequate lubricant. The introduction of Krytox™ GPL227 revolutionized operations, leading to a:
- Increased productivity through reduced downtime.
- Maintenance cost savings due to longer equipment life.
- Improved overall performance, with a significant reduction in wear and tear.
Future applications and potential of Krytox™ GPL227
metalworking processes, offering similar advantages in high temperature resistance and wear protection. This makes it an excellent choice for lubricating metals.
Conclusion
The evolution of metalforming technologies requires increasingly advanced lubrication solutions. Manufacturers are developing new hot metalforming lubricating oils and greases that not only improve efficiency but also meet environmental requirements, reducing emissions and waste.
Krytox™ GPL227 represents a breakthrough in lubrication for metalworking and metal stamping. With its ability to operate in extreme conditions, protect equipment and increase productivity, it is the ideal choice for companies looking to optimize their processes and reduce operating costs. If you would like to learn more about the potential and applications in metalworking of Krytox™ GPL227 contact our Mascherpa experts, who will professionally give you the information you need by recommending the product in the Krytox range that is right for you.
