ET 2012
posted by: Paul Robbins
Castool's shot sleeve lubrication system ensures complete coverage at minimum cost
- Vaporization over entire surface
- Constant lubricant dosage
- Programmable lube cycle
- Longer Sleeve Life
Castool is the only global supplier to the die-cast industry that can provide both a complete line of shot end products, and trained experienced technicians to help the die-caster get maximum productivity from his system. This service is available wherever Castool products are sold.
Single sourcing and the benefits of undivided responsibility distance a complete Castool shot end tooling package from all others.
Castool offers 2 types of liquid lubricant specially designed for this application. A liquid synthetic based boron nitride lubricant, designed for very critical castings that may require superior surface finish or welding, and a mineral oil based lubricant that maintains an unusually low coefficient of friction at high temperatures.
For small diameter sleeves of 3.5 in. (8.9 cm) or less, a Castool lube-drop system is
usually adequate. This utilizes an internal lubricant groove machined into the sleeve, combined with a metered dropper.
For larger and longer sleeves, it is difficult to adequately lubricate the complete interior. This can best be ensured with a Castool lube-spray system.
The lubricant is heated to minimize viscosity, and held in a heated pressurized tank. A carefully measured amount of lubricant is vaporized to form a fine mist. This is blown throughout the length of the shot sleeve, ensuring that the surface is completely and evenly coated with a thin film of lubricant. A metered dosage
injection pump provides the precise amount of lubricant required for each process cycle, with no danger of excess to contaminate the casting.
The Castool shot sleeve lubrication system is an essential part of the overall die
casting production process. Neither the shot sleeve nor the plunger can operate
effectively unless the shot sleeve is adequately lubricated.