CN Mould & Plastic Limited

Practical Guide to Injection Molding Parameters for Polypropylene (PP)

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    Polypropylene (PP) is one of the most versatile and widely used thermoplastics. To achieve optimal results—whether you're molding consumer products, automotive components, or packaging—it's essential to dial in the right process parameters. Here’s a clear, actionable breakdown of key PP molding settings.


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    Temperature Settings

    Zone Temperature Range (Typical Setting)


    Zone

    Temperature Range (Typical Setting)

    Hopper

    30–50°C (50°C)

    Zone 1

    160–250°C (200°C)

    Zone 2

    200–300°C (220°C)

    Zone 3

    220–300°C (240°C)

    Zone 4

    220–300°C (240°C)

    Zone 5

    220–300°C (240°C)

    Nozzle

    220–300°C (240°C)


    Melt Temperature: 220–280°C

    Barrel Residence Temp: 220°C

    Mold Temperature: 20–70°C


    Pressure & Speed

    Parameter

    Recommended Value

    Injection Pressure

    80–100 MPa (800–1000 bar); up to 180 MPa (1800 bar) for thin-wall packaging

    Holding Pressure

    30–60% of injection pressure

    Back Pressure

    5–20 MPa (50–200 bar)

    Injection Speed

    High for thin-wall packaging; moderate for general parts


    Screw & Metering

    Parameter

    Setting

    Screw Speed

    High (peripheral speed ≈ 1.3 m/s)

    Metering Stroke

    (0.5–4)D

    Cushion

    2–8 mm


    ✅ A 4D screw stroke provides sufficient residence time—key for melt homogeneity.


    Material Handling

    Pre-Drying: Not required. Only 1h at 80°C if stored in poor conditions.

    Regrind Usage: Up to 100% regrind possible.

    Shrinkage: 1.2–2.5%. Stabilizes after 24 hours.


    Tooling & Machine Tips

    Gating: Pin-point or multi-point gates; hot runners; gate at thickest section to minimize sink marks.

    Purge: No special purging required. PP withstands temperature variations well.

    Screw Design: Standard three-zone screw. Use open nozzle or non-return valve for packaging.


    References
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