Mould cooling insert for an injection mould, injection mould, method for producing a mould cooling insert and method for producing an injection-moulded part

Abstract

A mould cooling insert (100) for an injection mould is proposed. The mould cooling insert has a first mould part (10) and a second mould part (12) which are connected to one another at a contact surface (14). The first mould part (10) has a mould surface (16) which is designed to at least partially form an injection-moulded part. The first mould part (10) has a cooling channel (18) which is open towards the contact surface (14) and is designed to control the temperature of the mould surface (16) by means of a coolant. The second mould part (12) has an inlet channel (20) which is fluidically connected to the cooling channel (20) and is designed to introduce the coolant into the cooling channel (18).

Description

[0001] 24-2434 PIF

[0002] 1

[0003] Tool cooling insert for an injection mold, injection mold, method for manufacturing a tool cooling insert and method for manufacturing an injection molded part

[0004] The invention relates generally to the field of injection molds. Specifically, the invention relates to a mold cooling insert for an injection mold, an injection mold, a method for manufacturing a mold cooling insert, and a method for manufacturing an injection-molded part.

[0005] Plastic parts can be manufactured using an injection molding process. In this process, a plastic material is injected into a hot mold. To ensure the component, or injection-molded part, is dimensionally stable and accurate, it typically needs to cool quickly within the mold. Efficient mold cooling can therefore be crucial for the quality of the injection-molded part.

[0006] State-of-the-art injection molds typically feature integrated cooling channels within the mold insert. Injection molding processes are frequently used to manufacture components with complex geometries. This necessitates the use of complex injection molds. Manufacturing such molds can be very expensive, which is ultimately reflected in the high cost of the injection-molded parts. Cooling or temperature control within such complex mold geometries can prove challenging. Integrating cooling channels can be difficult. Furthermore, the complex geometries can lead to uneven temperature distribution within the mold.

[0007] The object of the present invention is to address the challenges described above and, in particular, to at least partially overcome the disadvantages described above. Specifically, the invention aims to provide an improved tool cooling insert for an injection mold, which enables improved cooling and / or temperature control of the injection mold. The invention further aims to provide an improved method for manufacturing a tool cooling insert and an improved method for manufacturing an injection-molded part. 24-2434 PIF

[0008] 2

[0009] The invention is defined in the independent claims. Advantageous embodiments of the invention are described in the dependent claims and the following description.

[0010] A first aspect of the present disclosure relates to a tool cooling insert for an injection mold. The tool cooling insert comprises a first tool part and a second tool part, which are connected to each other at a contact surface. The first tool part has a tool surface configured to at least partially form an injection-molded part. The first tool part has a cooling channel open towards the contact surface, configured to temperature-control the tool surface by means of a coolant. The second tool part has an inlet channel that is in fluid communication with the cooling channel and configured to introduce the coolant into the cooling channel.

[0011] A two-part cooling insert for an injection mold is proposed. The cooling insert can be part of an injection mold or integrated into one. The two-part cooling insert comprises two components: a first component and a second component. The first component has a surface specifically designed to at least partially shape the injection-molded part. This means that the liquid material (usually plastic) can be injected into this surface and solidify to achieve the desired shape. Therefore, the surface of the first component can, at least in part, form a surface of the injection mold. The surface of the injection mold can determine the shape of the injection-molded part.

[0012] The first tool part also has a cooling channel which can run within the first tool part and is open towards the contact surface (i.e., the interface between the two tool parts). The cooling channel is preferably designed to carry a coolant that can regulate the temperature of the tool surface. The first tool part can also be called the contour part.

[0013] The first and second tool parts are connected to each other at a contact surface. This means that the two tool parts can lie against each other at the contact surface. A lower surface of the first tool part can lie against an upper surface of the second tool part. The lower surface of the first tool part can partially correspond with the upper surface of the second tool part. The contact surface is preferably sealed, which is why it can also be called a sealing surface. In particular, the two tool parts lie against each other in such a way that the upper surface of the second tool part 24-2434 PIF

[0014] 3. The cooling channel of the first tool part can be tightly sealed. A coolant can be fed through the inlet channel of the second tool part into the cooling channel of the first tool part. There, the coolant can circulate and temper, i.e., heat or cool, the tool surface that may be in contact with the injection-molded part. This allows the surface temperature to be controlled, which can be crucial for the quality of the injection-molded part being produced. The second tool part can be called the 'carrier part'. The second tool part can have functional elements that serve to install the tool cooling insert into an injection mold.

[0015] The two-part design of the tool cooling insert allows the two tool parts to be manufactured independently. It is conceivable that one or both of the two tool parts could be produced using a 3D printing process.

[0016] The open design of the cooling channel towards the contact surface can simplify its manufacture and integration into the first mold component. This means that the cooling channel does not need to be entirely inserted and / or manufactured from the bottom of the entire mold cooling insert, but can be more easily designed from the contact surface. This can simplify the manufacturing of the mold cooling insert. The mold cooling insert described above and / or below can be manufactured cost-effectively and thus enable the cost-effective production of an injection-molded part.

[0017] The two-part design of the tool cooling insert allows the cooling channel to be positioned close to the surface of the first tool part. The cooling channel can be directly integrated or created from the first tool part towards the tool surface. Because the cooling channel originates from the first tool part, any functional elements (such as ejectors) of the second tool part cannot obstruct its path or, in particular, the manufacturing process. This allows for a cooling channel with a large cross-section, or diameter, within the first tool part. The larger the cross-section of the cooling channel, the greater the coolant flow rate. A higher coolant flow rate enables more efficient cooling of the tool surface.

[0018] With the aid of such a tool cooling insert, the temperature of the tool surface can be precisely controlled. Furthermore, the use of such a tool cooling insert ensures a uniform temperature distribution across the tool surface. 24-2434 PIF

[0019] 4. This, in turn, can improve the quality and consistency of the injection-molded part being produced. Efficient cooling or temperature control can shorten the time required for the injection-molded part to cure, which can increase production speed.

[0020] According to one embodiment, the first and second tool parts are separably connected at their contact surface. This separable connection allows the two tool parts to be serviced and replaced independently. This can increase the flexibility of the tool cooling insert, as modifications or repairs to one tool part are possible without affecting the other. Furthermore, the separability of the tool parts simplifies access to internal elements, such as the cooling channel. This facilitates maintenance of the cooling channel. During operation of the tool cooling insert, the cooling channel may become clogged. The separability of the tool parts allows for easy access and / or cleaning of the cooling channel.

[0021] According to one embodiment, the cooling channel is manufactured by milling and / or electrical discharge machining (EDM). Preferably, the first tool part and / or the second tool part are not produced using a 3D printing process. Instead, the first tool part is manufactured in such a way that the cooling channel can subsequently be inserted into the semi-finished tool part by milling and / or EDM. Both milling and EDM machining are more cost-effective compared to 3D printing. Milling and EDM are often performed in-house by many tool manufacturers, which can enable faster and more flexible production of the tool cooling insert. A tool cooling insert that can be manufactured quickly and cost-effectively can, in turn, facilitate the cost-effective production of an injection-molded part. It should be noted that the inlet channel of the second tool part can also be manufactured by milling and / or EDM.

[0022] According to one embodiment, the first tool part has at least one rib which forms at least part of the tool surface. The tool cooling insert is preferably designed for an injection mold with a complex geometry. The tool surface, which can form at least part of the surface of the injection mold, can have one or more ribs. In the context of this disclosure, the term "rib" is preferably to be understood broadly. A rib can, for example, denote a protrusion, a contour core, and / or a structure. The tool surface can be designed to produce a complex injection-molded part. In particular, the 24-2434 PIF

[0023] 5

[0024] The tool surface must be designed for injection molding a vehicle part. Vehicle parts, such as airbag deployment channels, typically have a complex geometry and require particularly complex injection molds or tool surfaces. The tool surface can, for example, have several ribs, each separated by a narrow slot or gap. The liquid injection molding material can be injected into the narrow slot. Preferably, the ribs of the first tool part are significantly wider than the gaps between them, i.e., in particular, two to four times wider.

[0025] Preferably, the cooling channel of the first tool part extends into a rib. The cross-section of the cooling channel is preferably matched to the width of the rib. This can serve to bring the cooling channel as close as possible to the surface of the tool cooling insert, i.e., to the tool surface, without impairing the stability and strength of the rib.

[0026] According to one embodiment, the cooling channel has a partition plate that partially divides it. The partition plate can serve to divide the cooling channel into separate sections, for example, to direct and / or improve the flow of coolant. The coolant flow can be redirected within the cooling channel by means of a partition plate. This allows for efficient cooling and / or temperature control of the tool surface.

[0027] According to one embodiment, the partition plate is removable, particularly without tools, within the cooling channel. The partition plate can divide the cooling channel into two smaller channels that communicate with each other fluidically. If the cooling channel becomes clogged, these smaller channels can be difficult to clean or clear. Therefore, it can be advantageous to provide a removable partition plate to facilitate easy cleaning of the cooling channel.

[0028] According to one embodiment, the first tool part and / or the second tool part have a first seal for sealing the contact surface. A circumferential seal may be provided between the first tool part and the second tool part. Such a circumferential seal may serve to seal the cooling channel of the first tool part against the second tool part. The second tool part may, for example, have a circumferential groove in which the second seal may be arranged. The second seal may be a sealing cord. 24-2434 PIF

[0029] 6

[0030] According to one embodiment, the first tool part and / or the second tool part have a connecting element designed to join the two tool parts together, particularly in a detachable manner. Such a connecting element allows the first and second tool parts to be joined and separated. The connecting element can also enable the centering of the second tool part relative to the first tool part. Since the inlet channel of the second tool part can transition into the cooling channel of the first tool part, the two tool parts should be aligned as precisely as possible. The connecting element can help ensure that the two tool parts are aligned as precisely as possible. The precise alignment of the tool parts via the connecting element ensures that the channels (cooling channel and inlet channel) transition correctly into one another.

[0031] It should be noted that both the first and second tool parts can have a connecting element. Two such connecting elements can interlock, in particular to fulfill the alignment function mentioned above.

[0032] A second aspect of the present disclosure relates to an injection mold comprising a mold cooling insert, as described above and / or below.

[0033] All advantages, disclosures and / or explanations described above and / or below in relation to the tool cooling insert apply equally to the injection mold and vice versa.

[0034] A third aspect of the present disclosure relates to a method for manufacturing a tool cooling insert for an injection mold. The method comprises the following steps:

[0035] • Providing a first tool part and a second tool part, wherein the first tool part has a tool surface designed to at least partially form an injection-molded part, and

[0036] • Milling and / or EDM of a cooling channel into the first tool part starting from the surface opposite the tool surface, and

[0037] • Connecting the first tool part to the second tool part.

[0038] A method for manufacturing a two-part tool cooling insert is proposed. Two tool parts can be provided which can be joined together. 24-2434 PIF

[0039] 7. The first tool part preferably serves to shape the injection-molded part. For this purpose, the first tool part can have a tool surface that defines the shape of the injection-molded part to be produced. However, before the two tool parts are joined together, the first tool part can be machined. In particular, a cooling channel is milled and / or eroded into the tool part, starting from the surface opposite the tool surface, i.e., from a so-called contact surface.

[0040] Milling and / or electrical discharge machining (EDM) allows the dimensions and shape of the cooling channel to be manufactured very accurately and reproducibly.

[0041] This allows for optimal design of the cooling channel for efficient heat dissipation. Milling and electrical discharge machining (EDM) manufacturing techniques, in particular, allow the cooling channel to be individually adapted to the geometry of the first tool component. Complex channel layouts and shapes can thus be realized. The two machining methods mentioned (milling and EDM) can therefore prove especially advantageous for injection molds with predefined, complex geometries. A cooling channel that is tailored to and / or optimized for the geometry of the injection mold can contribute to improved cooling and / or temperature control of the tool surface.

[0042] Furthermore, compared to other manufacturing processes such as drilling, the first tool component is generally subjected to less stress during milling and EDM. This minimizes the risk of cracks or damage in the tool cooling insert.

[0043] Overall, this process can be used to manufacture a tool cooling insert that enables improved cooling or temperature control of the injection mold. The process can also contribute to high quality of the tool cooling insert and high process stability.

[0044] Following the machining of the first tool part to form the cooling channel, the two tool parts are joined together. This can be done without tools. The two tool parts can be joined, for example, using a clip connection, a snap-fit ​​connection, and / or a plug connection. Preferably, the two tool parts are screwed together. A screw connection advantageously allows the necessary contact pressure to seal the contact surface to be applied. All these connection types have the advantage that they can generally be disassembled without damage. This means that the tool parts can be separated again if necessary, e.g., for maintenance work, without damaging the parts. 24-2434 PIF

[0045] 8. In addition to or as an alternative to these mechanical connections, joining methods can be used. Alternatively or additionally, the two tool parts can be glued, welded, and / or soldered together. These joining techniques offer a durable and secure connection between the two tool parts. However, if one of these latter joining techniques is used, the two tool parts are not separably connected, at least not non-destructively. A separable connection can be advantageous, particularly for maintenance purposes.

[0046] All advantages, disclosures and / or descriptions presented above and / or below relating to the tool cooling insert apply equally to the process for manufacturing a tool cooling insert and vice versa.

[0047] According to one embodiment of the method, an inlet channel is milled and / or eroded into the second tool part. This inlet channel can serve to introduce coolant into the cooling channel previously formed in the first tool part. The inlet channel can be integrated into the second tool part. The inlet channel machining step is performed, in particular, before joining the two tool parts. This means that the second tool part can be machined separately before being joined with the first tool part. The inlet channel can be milled or eroded into the second tool part, starting from a side surface. This can facilitate the subsequent connection of a coolant supply line.

[0048] According to one embodiment of the method, a tool cooling insert, as described above and / or below, is used to carry out the method.

[0049] A fourth aspect of the present disclosure relates to a method for manufacturing an injection-molded part. The method comprises the following steps:

[0050] • Injecting a liquid injection molding material into an injection mold, wherein the injection mold has a mold cooling insert as described above and / or below, and

[0051] • Cooling of the injection-molded part,

[0052] During the injection of the liquid injection molding material, the injection mold is tempered using the mold cooling insert. Alternatively or additionally, the injection mold is cooled using the mold cooling insert during the cooling of the injection-molded part. 24-2434 PIF

[0053] 9

[0054] This means that the mold cooling insert can be used to regulate the temperature of the injection mold during the injection of the molding material (e.g., polymer material). Alternatively or additionally, the mold cooling insert can also be used to cool the injection mold during the cooling phase of the molded part. This means that the mold cooling insert can be configured to actively control the temperature of the injection mold to create optimal conditions for the injection process. To achieve this temperature regulation and / or cooling, a coolant, such as water, can be introduced into the cooling channel of the mold cooling insert via the inlet channel. This coolant then flows through the cooling channel and out of the mold cooling insert via an outlet channel.Alternatively, coolant can be introduced into the cooling channel via the inlet channel and extracted via the inlet channel after a predefined time. The outlet channel can be an inlet channel or serve as an inlet channel, and vice versa (depending on the coolant flow direction).

[0055] All benefits, revelations and / or explanations described above and / or below in relation to one aspect of the present revelation apply equally to all other aspects of the present revelation.

[0056] Exemplary embodiments of the invention are described below with reference to the figures. The figures show:

[0057] Fig. 1 shows a tool cooling insert according to the prior art.

[0058] Fig. 2 shows a perspective view of a tool cooling insert according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0059] Fig. 3 shows a sectional view of a tool cooling insert according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0060] Fig. 4 shows a perspective view of a first tool part of a tool cooling insert according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0061] Fig. 5 a perspective view of a tool cooling insert according to an embodiment, 24-2434 PIF

[0062] 10

[0063] Figs. 6a and 6b show an exploded view of a tool cooling insert according to an exemplary embodiment, and

[0064] Fig. 7 shows one half of an injection mold according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0065] Similar, similar-looking, identical, or equivalent elements are marked with similar or identical reference symbols in the figures. The figures are merely schematic and not to scale.

[0066] Fig. 1 shows a prior art tool cooling insert 200. Such a prior art tool cooling insert 200 can be integrated into an injection mold. The tool cooling insert 200 of Fig. 1 has a tool surface 16, which is configured to define the shape for an injection-molded part to be produced. During an injection molding process, the tool surface 16 is generally to be temperature-controlled, i.e., heated or cooled. For this purpose, a cooling line is arranged in the tool cooling insert 200. A coolant is introduced through this cooling line 30 to regulate the temperature of the tool surface 16. The cooling line 30 is arranged at a distance d from the tool surface 16.

[0067] Fig. 2 shows a perspective view of a tool cooling insert 100 according to an exemplary embodiment. In particular, Fig. 2 shows a section along line AA (cf. Fig. 6a) in a perspective view of the tool cooling insert for an injection mold. The tool cooling insert 100 is a two-part design comprising a first tool part 10 and a second tool part 12. The two tool parts 10 and 12 are connected at a contact surface 14. In particular, the two tool parts 10 and 12 are closely connected to each other at the contact surface 14. Preferably, the two tool parts 10 and 12 fit precisely against each other at the contact surface 14. The first tool part 10 has a tool surface 16 designed to at least partially form an injection-molded part. For this purpose, the tool surface 16 can have ribs 11. The ribs 11 can form gaps into which a liquid injection molding material can be injected to form the injection-molded part.The tool surface 16 is preferably designed such that an injection-molded part with complex geometries can be produced. The first tool part 10 has a cooling channel 18 open towards the contact surface 14. The cooling channel 18 is designed to temperature-control the tool surface 16 by means of a coolant, such as water. Although water is preferred as a coolant, oil or emulsions of water and oil can also be used as a coolant. 24-2434 PIF.

[0068] 11

[0069] The second tool part 12 has an inlet channel 20, which is in fluid communication with the cooling channel 18. The inlet channel 20 is designed to introduce the coolant into the cooling channel 18. It is also conceivable that the coolant can be discharged from the cooling channel 18 via the inlet channel 20. By joining the two tool parts 10 and 12, the cooling channel 18 can be completely closed except for the opening to the inlet channel 20. If several inlet channels 20 are provided, preferably all openings to the inlet channels 20 are left open when the second tool part 12 is joined to the first tool part 10. It should be noted that although the inlet channel 20 primarily serves to introduce the coolant into the cooling channel 18, it can also serve as an outlet channel 21 and can accordingly be called outlet channel 21.

[0070] In the cooling channel 18 of the first tool part 10 of Fig. 2, baffles 19 are also arranged. Such a baffle 19 is preferably arranged flush with the contact surface 14 and does not extend over the entire depth (in the z-direction) of the cooling channel. This means that the baffle 19 is arranged in the cooling channel 18 in such a way that the coolant can be diverted around the baffle 19. Depending on the flow direction and design of the cooling channel 18, in particular the corresponding section of the cooling channel 18, the baffle 19 can be oriented essentially parallel to the longitudinal direction (y-direction) of the tool cooling insert 100 or essentially parallel to the lateral direction (x-direction) of the tool cooling insert 100. The height of the tool cooling insert 100 can be measured in the z-direction. The baffles shown in Fig.The two partition plates 19 shown can partially divide the cooling channel 18 to selectively direct the coolant flow without completely interrupting the cooling channel 18. The partition plates 19 can be removed from the cooling channel 18, particularly without tools. The partition plates 19 are preferably inserted into the cooling channel 18.

[0071] The cooling channel 18 can be manufactured into the first tool part 10 by milling and / or electrical discharge machining (EDM). These manufacturing processes allow for the realization of complex channel layouts and shapes. This makes it possible to provide a cooling channel 18 that is particularly well-suited for complex injection molds compared to prior art cooling inserts.

[0072] In particular, the cooling channel 18 can be positioned closer to the tool surface 16 compared to conventional cooling inserts (as shown, for example, in Figure 1). The distance D between the cooling channel 18 and the tool surface 16 can thus be significantly reduced. 24-2434 PIF

[0073] 12. A smaller distance between cooling channel 18 and tool surface 16 enables better and more efficient cooling or temperature control of the tool surface 16.

[0074] The distance D can be reduced, in particular, because the two methods mentioned (milling and EDM) place less stress on the first tool part compared to other manufacturing processes. This reduces the risk of cracks or damage in the first tool part 10. Due to the lower risk of damage, the wall thickness of the first tool part 10, especially at the rib 11 where the cooling channel 18 is integrated, can be made thinner. In summary, the gentle manufacturing processes of milling and EDM allow for a thinner tool wall, which in turn enables a reduction of the distance D between the cooling channel 18 and the tool surface 16. It should be noted, by way of example, that the distance D between the cooling channel 18 and the tool surface 16 can be in the millimeter range. Thus, the distance D can be between 3 mm and 25 mm, preferably between 3 mm and 10 mm.

[0075] The tool cooling insert 100 of Fig. 2 can be installed or integrated into an injection mold 300 (see Fig. 7). For this purpose, the second tool part 12 can include functional elements 28, such as fastening elements.

[0076] Fig. 3 shows a sectional view of a tool cooling insert 100 according to an exemplary embodiment. In particular, Fig. 3 shows a section along line BB (cf. Fig. 6a) of a tool cooling insert 100 according to an exemplary embodiment. As shown in Fig. 3, the inlet channel 20 of the second tool part 12 leads into the cooling channel 18. The second tool part 12 can have a first seal 22 to seal the cooling channel against the second tool part 12. The first seal 22 can be circumferential. Preferably, the first seal 22 is a sealing cord embedded in a groove of the second tool part 12.

[0077] The two tool parts 10 and 12 are connected to each other via a connecting element 26. The connecting element 26 can be configured, firstly, to connect the two tool parts 10 and 12 in a separable manner, and secondly, to align the two tool parts 10 and 12 relative to each other. The connecting element 26 can be a screw connection. Alternatively or additionally, centering elements (not shown in Fig. 3) can be provided. A second seal 24 can be arranged at the connection point of the inlet channel 20 to the cooling channel 18. 24-2434 PIF

[0078] 13

[0079] Fig. 4 shows a perspective view of a first tool part 10 of a tool cooling insert 100 according to an exemplary embodiment. Fig. 4 shows, in particular, a section of a perspective view of a first tool part 10 along line CC (see Fig. 6a). In Fig. 4, the cooling channel 18 and the various separating plates 19 are clearly visible. It should be noted that the cooling channel 18 allows a continuous flow of coolant. This means that the entire cooling channel 20 can be filled with coolant via a single inlet channel 20.

[0080] Fig. 5 shows a perspective view of a tool cooling insert 100 according to an exemplary embodiment. In Fig. 5, the two tool parts 10 and 12 are connected to each other. The second tool part 12 has, in particular, two functional elements 28 which are designed to integrate the tool cooling insert 100 into an injection mold 300 (see Fig. 7).

[0081] Figures 6a and 6b show an exploded view of a tool cooling insert 100 according to an exemplary embodiment. Figures 6a and 6b show, in particular, the first tool part 10 from the perspective of the contact surface 14, as well as the second tool part 12, also from the perspective of the contact surface 14. The second tool part 10 in Figure 6b has both an inlet channel 20 and an outlet channel 21. The designation 'inlet channel' or 'outlet channel' depends solely on the flow direction of the coolant. The tool cooling insert 100 can be designed for both flow directions. In the exemplary embodiment of Figures 6a and 6b, the coolant can flow from the inlet channel 20 to the outlet channel 21 through the entire cooling channel 18, i.e., from a) to b). To ensure the best possible temperature control and / or cooling of the ribs 11 of the tool cooling insert 100, separating plates 19 can be provided which can direct the flow in the z-direction.Preferably, at least one separating plate 19 can be provided for each rib 11. This allows the coolant flow to be redirected within the rib 11 itself. The first seal 22 is particularly visible in Fig. 6b. The first seal 22 preferably seals the contact surface 14 and is arranged in a groove on the contact surface 14 of the second tool part 12. A second seal 24, such as a sealing ring, can be arranged around the inlet channel 20 and / or the outlet channel 21. The second tool part 12 can also have one or more ejectors 27. The ejector 27 can serve to remove the finished injection-molded part from the injection mold 300, in particular from the mold cooling insert 100. After the injection molding process, i.e., when the molded part has solidified in the injection mold 300, the ejector 27 can push the molded part out of the injection mold 300. (See 24-2434 PIF.)

[0082] In other words, the first tool part 10 can have an ejector hole 29 for each ejector 27. A third seal 25 can be arranged around an ejector 27, which can also serve to seal the contact surface 14. Fig. 7 shows one half of an injection mold 300 according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0083] At least one tool cooling insert 100 is integrated into the injection mold 100 (see dashed rectangle). The tool surface 16 of the tool cooling insert 100 thus forms part of the total surface of the injection mold 300. In order to integrate the tool cooling insert 100 into the injection mold 300 as effectively as possible, the second tool part 12 can have one or more fastening elements.

[0084] It should be further noted that the terms "comprising" and "comprising" do not exclude other elements, and the indefinite articles "a" or "an" do not exclude a plurality. It should also be noted that features and steps described with reference to one of the above embodiments may also be used in combination with other features and steps of other embodiments described above. Reference numerals in the claims are not to be considered limitations.

[0085] 24-2434 PIF

[0086] 15

[0087] Reference symbol list

[0088] 100 tool cooling inserts

[0089] 200 tool cooling inserts according to the state of the art

[0090] 300 injection molds

[0091] 10 first tool part

[0092] 11th rib

[0093] 12 second tool part

[0094] 14 Contact area

[0095] 16 Tool surface

[0096] 18 Cooling channel

[0097] 19 Dividing plate

[0098] 20 Inlet channel

[0099] 21 Outlet channel

[0100] 22 first seal

[0101] 24 second seal

[0102] 25 third seal

[0103] 26 Connecting element

[0104] 27 ejectors

[0105] 28 Functional element

[0106] 29 Ejector hole

[0107] 30 Cooling line

Claims

-2434 PIF 16 Claims 1. Tool cooling insert (100) for an injection mold (300), comprising a first tool part (10) and a second tool part (12) which are connected to each other at a contact surface (14), wherein the first tool part (10) has a tool surface (16) which is designed to form an injection molded part at least partially, wherein the first tool part (10) has a cooling channel (18) open towards the contact surface (14) which is designed to temperature-control the tool surface (16) by means of a coolant, wherein the second tool part (12) has an inlet channel (20) which is in fluid communication with the cooling channel (18) and is designed to introduce the coolant into the cooling channel (18).

2. Tool cooling insert (100) according to claim 1, wherein the first tool part (10) and the second tool part (12) are separably connected to each other at the contact surface (14).

3. Tool cooling insert (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the cooling channel (18) is produced by milling and / or electrical discharge machining (EDM).

4. Tool cooling insert (100) according to one of the preceding claims, the first tool part (10) having at least one rib (11) which forms at least part of the tool surface (16).

5. Tool cooling insert (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the cooling channel (18) has a separating plate (19) which partially separates the cooling channel (18).

6. Tool cooling insert (100) according to claim 5, wherein the separating plate (19) is arranged, in particular without tools, to be removable in the cooling channel (18). -2434 PIF 17 7. Tool cooling insert (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the first tool part (10) and / or the second tool part (12) have a first seal (22) for sealing the contact surface (14).

8. Tool cooling insert (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the first tool part (10) and / or the second tool part (12) have a connecting element (26) which is designed to connect the two tool parts together, in particular in a separable manner.

9. Injection mold (300) comprising a mold cooling insert (100) according to one of the preceding claims.

10. Method for manufacturing a tool cooling insert (100) for an injection mold (300), comprising the following steps: • Providing a first tool part (10) and a second tool part (12), wherein the first tool part (10) has a tool surface (16) designed to at least partially form an injection-molded part, and • Milling and / or eroding a cooling channel (18) into the first tool part (10) starting from the surface opposite the tool surface (16), and • Connecting the first tool part (10) to the second tool part (12).

11. Method according to claim 10, wherein an inlet channel (20) is milled and / or eroded into the second tool part (12).

12. Method according to one of claims 10 to 11, wherein a tool cooling insert (100) according to one of claims 1 to 8 is used to carry out the method.

13. Method for producing an injection-molded part, comprising the following steps: • Injecting a liquid injection molding material into an injection mold (300), wherein the injection mold has a mold cooling insert (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, and • Cooling of the injection-molded part, wherein the injection mold (300) is tempered by means of the mold cooling insert (100) during the injection of the liquid injection molding material and / or -2434 PIF 18 wherein, during the cooling of the injection molded part, the injection molding tool (300) is cooled by means of the tool cooling insert (100).

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