Web-exclusive New Product: Precision runnerless temperature profiling

Using an inventive, patented manufacturing process, Watlow Electric Mfg Co. (St. Louis, MO) has developed a radically new type of low-profile, self-clamping hot runner nozzle heater that quickly and precisely turns on the heat just where and when it's needed.

Trademarked Thermasleeve, the new nozzle heaters are manufactured using a process that sprays the heating elements—the resistor and dielectric materials—directly onto a metal substrate. A computer-controlled laser cutter generates the power distribution pattern required, ensuring accurate and repeatable temperature distribution along the entire length of the nozzle. The manufacturing process is very repeatable, according to company sources.

No additional nozzle clamping is needed. Thermasleeve heaters maintain an intimate contact with the nozzle body, providing optimum profiled heat transfer. When combined with their low heater mass, this close contact facilitates rapid heat transfer to and from the tip.

They're easy to install and remove, reducing mold maintenance time, and their low-profile design suits them for use in high-cavitation molds. Inside diameters range from just 0.50-2.80 inches; wall thicknesses range from 0.08-0.11 inch. And heater positioning is secure during operation.

Watlow's technology allows hot runner manufacturers to create unconventionally precise temperature profiles. Up to three unique zones of power can be selected by the user, and individual heating zones can be as short as 0.39 inch. And the Thermasleeve heaters have a slot for thermocouples, plus a retaining clip that makes it easy both to secure and to remove them.

Watlow Electric Mfg. Co.
www.watlow.com