Maintaining mold cleanliness is crucial for optimal production efficiency and product quality, and SLIDE Products has been an industry leader in mold cleaners, mold releases, and other injection molding supplies since 1953.
Offering a comprehensive range of industrial-strength cleaners, wipes and polishes specifically designed for injection molds while in use and in storage, SLIDE has set the standard for injection mold cleaning and maintenance. But with such a wide range of products, some of the lesser-known (yet equally effective) products are often missed – here are the first three of six that we will cover in a two-part blog series.
Econo-Spray Mold Cleaner
Econo-Spray Mold Cleaner offers a budget-friendly alternative within the SLIDE family, which includes mold releases and purging compounds. It’s a go-to option when you need a lower-cost product without compromising on quality. Although it doesn’t evaporate as quickly as Mold Cleaner 4, its oil-based formulation — derived from an Exxon Mobile product — effectively cleans molds but often requires manual wiping.
Pro Tip: Despite its lower cost, you might end up spending more on Econo-Spray than Mold Cleaner 4 due to higher usage rates over time.
Citra Cling
Citra Cling is a unique, water-based foaming product that excels at cleaning safely and efficiently. While water-based cleaners are generally avoided for molds due to potential rust issues, Citra Cling stands out for its minimal chemical exposure, making it safer for workers.
Previously, SLIDE offered a foam-action plastic cleaner, but Citra Cling has superseded it thanks to its use of D-limonene, which gives it a pleasant orange scent. Akin to “Scrubbing Bubbles on steroids,” the foaming action helps lift oil off molds and plastic parts effectively.
Resin Remover: “The Stripper”
SLIDE Resin Remover, nicknamed “The Stripper,” is designed to tackle more severe contamination challenges. It’s especially effective when resin accumulates (plate out) or burns onto the mold, leading to part deformation. This can happen when a mold runs hotter than recommended, such as running polystyrene at 350° F instead of 330° F.
Often used for parts in electrical equipment and automotive, Resin Remover also assists in preventing clogged vents, a common issue with resins like PVC. Its efficiency is maximized at 150 to 175° F, allowing molds to be cleaned without removal from service — saving valuable production time.
Note: This resin remover is ideal for solving an existing issue, rather than preventative maintenance.
Your Partner in Injection Molding Efficiency
Each SLIDE mold cleaner serves a unique purpose and fits into specific scenarios in the mold cleaning process. Understanding these nuances not only saves time and resources but extends the life of your molds, ensuring consistent production quality, and can make all the difference in the efficiency and longevity of your injection molding process.
Not sure which product is right for you? Plastixs has been a trusted distributor of SLIDE since 1999, with prior experience dating back 1987, and we can help you find exactly what you need, when you need it. Contact our team to learn more about SLIDE products and injection mold management best practices.