What is a Mold Release Agent and What are its Types?

September 9, 2024

What is a Mold Release Agent?

A mold release agent is a crucial chemical used in industrial manufacturing to prevent molded parts from adhering to the surfaces of molds. It forms a barrier between the mold and the material being shaped, allowing for easy separation once the process is complete. This not only speeds up production but also protects the molds from damage, ensuring their longevity and continued effectiveness.

In manufacturing, molds come in a variety of designs depending on the material and process used. Some common mold types include:

Plastic injection molds
Thermoset molds
Thermoform (vacuum) molds
Blow molds
Extrusion molds
Metal injection molds
Forging molds

Among these, plastic injection molds are the most widely used for producing various plastic parts. Mold release agents play a vital role in ensuring that these and other mold types work efficiently without interruptions.

Types of Mold Release Agents

There are several types of mold release agents used across industries, each designed to meet specific needs. These include:

Silicone Mold Release Agents
Silicone-Free Mold Release Agents
Water-Based Release Agents
Solvent-Based Release Agents

Silicone Mold Release Agents

Silicone Mould Release Agents are versatile and widely used in the plastic mold industry. These agents are especially effective in high-temperature environments, such as plastic, rubber, and caoutchouc molding processes. They not only prevent the material from sticking to the mold but also act as lubricants. Their resistance to heat makes them suitable for separating various materials during hot molding processes, and they can double as lubricants in industrial applications.

Non Silicone Mold Release Agents

Non Silicon Mould Release Agents offer dry lubrication and are ideal for use in molds where the finished parts will need to be painted or bonded after manufacturing. These agents form a thin, non-stick film that reduces friction without affecting post-production processes like painting or adhesion. They are suitable for materials such as polyethylene, polypropylene, and polyurethane, and are also resistant to high temperatures.

Water-Based Mold Release Agents

Water-based mold release agents are particularly effective in working with polyurethane products. They form a thin film that prevents parts from deforming and makes them easier to separate from the mold. Additionally, they are environmentally friendly, as they do not create pollution within the mold or the surrounding environment.

Solvent-Based Release Agents

Solvent-based release agents are similar in function to water-based agents but offer a faster drying time. However, they come with some drawbacks, including negative impacts on human health and the environment. Due to their flammable and combustible properties, extra safety precautions must be taken when using these agents in production environments.

Differences Between Mold Release Agents

One of the key differences between mould release agents is whether or not they contain silicone. Silicone-based agents are excellent lubricants but create surfaces that do not accept paint or adhesives. For applications where painting or bonding is required after molding, Non Silicon agents are the preferred choice, as they ensure that the molded parts can be finished without issues.

Micron Aerosols | Complete Mould Release Solutions

Micron Aerosols who provides customised solutions to the manufacturing processes holds mold release agents belonging to Spray Mould and Micron Aerosols brands in its portfolio. Some of the solutions offered in this context are;

1. Silicon Mould Release Agent 550ml | Silicone Mould Release Agent 5000ml

Aerosol can of silicone mold release spray for manufacturing processes Container of silicon mold release agent for industrial use