The IML process starts with the clamp open and insertion of laminate. Clamp moves forward to a selectable injection start position, which typically leaves a mold face gap of 5mm to 20mm.
Injection is initiated through sequential valve gates.
During injection, at an operator selected screw position, the clamp will initiate the profile coining sequence. The coining sequence will be completed in parallel with the final filling stages of the mold. Depending on part geometry, a benefit to this process is the possibility of minimizing or eliminating the pack and hold sequences. Part is ejected after cure and cycle repeats. This process might require the clamp to retract during initial stages of injection.