Filter Elements: The Longevity Determinant Of Injection Molding Machine

Filter elements are one of the crucial parts of an injection molding machine.

It is one of the most important component and also one of the greatest contributing factors that lengthens the longevity of a machine.

More like the human kidney, filter elements functions by circulating fluids that are free from any form of contamination or particles. This ensures the proper functioning of pumps, valves, and hydraulic components.

Due to the importance of filter elements, always ensure they are part of the regular maintenance check and are replaced as soon as they stop working.

If you need to get any part of an injection molding machine, endeavor to contact a professional mold spare part supplier and be assured of getting the best product.

How to know if a filter needs replacement

There are pressure switch indicators on filters. These indicators are electrical signals that notify the user if there are excess particles in the filter elements by the trip of an alarm.

When such happens, it shows something is not right in the system. Other signs of full filter elements are failing pump, reduction in valve performance, or sticking clamps.

The alarm gives valuable information on not just the filter, but also likely problems affecting other components of the machine.

When the filter of a machine is removed, and you realize it is filled with steel, brass, or other forms of particles, then it is a sign that something is malfunctioning in the machine.

Although, the alarm can be ignored if production is ongoing and the machine can be used for a while but this will eventually lead to either a valve problem, or a total breakdown of the machine which could lead to a long-term stoppage of operation or production.

Therefore, it is advisable to replace a filter whenever the alarm goes off.

How often can a filter be replaced

Replacing filters depend on the rate at which your machine is being used and also the quality of your oil, but you should change your filters every three months.

It would be of great benefit to change the filter elements once the alarm goes off because this would prevent deterioration of the filter and also preventing contamination of the machine by other particles.

People tend to washout the filters to lengthen the longevity but this process is much like ignoring or silencing the alarm, and this will only keep the machine running temporarily.

Worst case scenario

Failure to replace a filter could lead to a long-term downtime of your machine and this could be very costly.

Ignoring or silencing an alarm to keep a machine running or using a compromised filter for a long time will surely lead to the stoppage of the hydraulic system – leaking seals, stuck valves, loud pumps, etc.

Cleaning the system comes with the help of a technical support team where they remove the contaminated oil, drain the tank, and perform other tasks to ensure the machine works perfectly.

With all this, production has to come to a halt and one is sure to spend a lot in fixing the machine.

Final Thoughts

Fresh filter elements as said earlier are a crucial part of an injection molding machine.

Having a clean filter is a key factor in extending the longevity of your machine and they keep you producing.

There are many signs of notification to change your filter, but the best method is to take notice of the alarm when it goes off and ensure to act immediately.

Nevertheless, always patronize a reputable mold spare part supplier whenever you need to get either a filter or any part of an injection molding machine.