Log splitter injector upgrade

- Plastic,Craft,Prototyping,Product Design,Opensource

INJECTION
HACK

How To Upgrade an Injection Mould Machine with a Log Splitter

Seeking increased power or efficiency? We enhanced our injection mould machine by integrating a 5-ton (approximately 4.5 metric tons) log splitter, significantly improving production capabilities. These videos outline our methods, including the process for producing thick parts.

Caution: This upgrade involves dangerous hydraulic machinery. Exercise caution.

Browse Files

Table of Contents

  1. 1

    How we built it

    This guide details the upgrade of the Injection Machine.

    Requirements:

    • An injection machine
    • A 5-ton (4.5 metric tons) log splitter
    • Skills in cutting steel, welding, and drilling
    • Hopper (refer to attached .zip file)

    Direct link to the log splitter used: www.bunnings.com.au/homelite-2200w-5t-electric-log-splitter_p0044725

  2. 2

    How we use it

    In this video, we demonstrate the use of our hydraulic injection molding machine, which we designed for producing larger and more complex products.

    Due to safety concerns, monitoring the pressure within the barrel is advisable. While we initially employed a load cell, it limited stroke length. We now either add vents to our molds or measure the appropriate amount of plastic for each shot.

  3. 3

    Build your own!

    Machine Upgrade Tips

    This machine may not suit all workshops, but it has proven invaluable for us.

    If you plan to upgrade your machine, consider the following:

    • Monitor Pressure: We initially used a load cell (see second image), which reduced our stroke length. We now weigh each shot.

    • Orientation Adjustment: Change the orientation to fit your workshop.

    • Quick Release: Develop a quick release for a moving barrel.

    Please exercise caution. We do not accept responsibility for any loss or damage. This guide is for educational purposes only.

    Vert.PNG - Plastic,Craft,Prototyping,Product Design,Opensource

Required Hardware

  • Injection mould machine
  • ~~Homelite 2200W 5T Electric Log Splitter~~ (5-ton capacity)
  • Hydraulic press system
  • Hopper (design files included in attached .zip)
  • Load cell (initially used for pressure monitoring)

Required Tools

  • Welding equipment (steel fabrication)
  • Cutting tools (steel modification)
  • Drilling machinery (component assembly)
  • Quick-release mechanism components (custom fabrication)
  • Weighing scale (for shot measurement)

Software

  • No specific software mentioned (hopper design files may require CAD tools)

Note: The tutorial emphasizes safety precautions and workshop-specific adaptations.

References

Articles

  • https://formlabs.com/blog/diy-injection-molding/
  • https://www.engelglobal.com/en/us/engel-customer-service/machine-retrofit-injection-molding
  • https://www.topstarmachine.com/what-safety-features-can-you-look-for-in-a-plastic-injection-molding-machine/

YouTube

  • https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M28Pbrm7wzE
  • https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uR8wmNgJvdU

Open Source Designs

  • https://community.preciousplastic.com/library/log-splitter-injector-upgrade
  • https://community.preciousplastic.com/research/fully-automatic-injection-machine