Page 20 - Injection Molding Advanced Troubleshooting Guide

1

Troubleshooting

Methodology

„ „1.1„ Troubleshooting

Troubleshooting is problem solving. Molding troubleshooters are called upon to
resolve problems with the part, mold, machine, or process. There are many prob-
lems encountered in injection molding including these general categories:
ƒ Cosmetic defects
ƒ Dimensional problems
ƒ Part breakage
ƒ Long cycle times
ƒ High scrap rate
All of the above lead to increased cost to manufacture a molded part, which often
makes the difference between profit and loss. A molding operation that is consis-
tently running high scrap or long cycles is going to struggle to succeed.

„ „1.2„ What Makes an Effective
Troubleshooter?

The role of a troubleshooter is to find the root cause of a problem and do what is
necessary to resolve the problem. Effective troubleshooters will look beyond their
initial impressions and ensure that the true root cause has been addressed. Good
troubleshooters take a great deal of pride in having the perseverance to solve a
problem and ensure that it does not reoccur.

The Merriam-Webster dictionary defines a troubleshooter as:
A skilled worker employed to locate trouble and make repairs in machinery and tech-
nical equipment.

A person skilled at solving or anticipating problems or difficulties.