To minimize the risks associated with declining cooling efficiency, regular cleaning of cooling channels must be incorporated into routine mold maintenance. Here are some best practices to help keep cooling channels clean and operational:
- Regular Preventive Cleaning: Establish a cleaning schedule based on the mold’s usage frequency and the type of coolant circulating in the system. Regular diagnostics and short preventive cleaning sessions effectively prevent contaminant buildup before it leads to more significant issues that impact the process.
- Flow Monitoring: Implement systems to monitor the flow of the cooling medium through the channels. Early detection of flow reductions or increases in the delta T (the temperature difference between inlet and outlet) can indicate blockages or the accumulation of scale or rust.
- Documenting Maintenance Activities: Maintain detailed records of all maintenance activities, including cleaning dates/times and flow rates recorded for individual channels. This documentation helps track cooling efficiency declines over time and can guide future decisions regarding tool maintenance.
- Choosing the Right Tool: Ensure that the cleaning device has features that allow for efficient and thorough cleaning, as well as monitoring the performance of each cooling circuit in the tool. It’s beneficial if the device also has data logging capabilities, enabling you to review and reference the data in future cleaning sessions.