Rapid cool process

US5232641A · kind A · utility

Inventors

• James T. Williamson · Kettering, US
• Michael Carter · Sunny Hills, US

Key dates

• Filing date: Sep 25, 1991
• Grant date: Aug 3, 1993
• Expiry date: Sep 25, 2011

Classification

• Technology area (CPC B): Performing Operations; Transporting
• CPC primary: B29K2105/253
• WIPO field: Other special machines
• WIPO sector: Mechanical engineering

Abstract

Rapid cooling of molded workpieces formed in an injection molding machine such as PET parisons is provided by a receiver receiving molded workpieces upon ejection from the molding machine, the receiver being transported out of the molding machine to an adjacent position where a cooling head coupled to a source of cooling fluid such as liquid CO.sub.2 directs the fluid toward the surfaces of each workpiece. The cooling head engages and is sealed to the receiver to inhibit the escape of cooling fluid into the atmosphere thereby reducing cost, environmental impact, etc. A sensor coupled to a control of the cooling fluid source permits the release of cooling fluid from said source to contact the workpieces only when the cooling head is engaged with and sealed to the receiver. A vacuum unit withdraws cooling fluid from the receiver subsequent to contact between the workpieces and the cooling fluid. The cooling fluid is then recooled and recycled for reuse.