Why Is It Unnecessary To Remove The Teflon Coating From Shoes Mold ?
The Teflon coating (usually referring to the PTFE non-stick coating) on shoe molds is a crucial industrial application, playing a vital and practical role.
The main functions and benefits of Teflon coating on shoe molds:
Core Function: Excellent anti-stick and demolding performance
Preventing adhesion:
During shoe manufacturing, the sole (especially materials like rubber, EVA, and PU) is injected into the mold under high temperature and pressure, resulting in a molten state and strong adhesion.
Without the coating, the finished shoe would stick tightly to the mold, making it extremely difficult to remove.
Easy demolding: Teflon has the lowest surface tension of all solid materials, making it virtually non-stick.
This allows the molded shoe to be easily and completely removed from the mold, greatly reducing the difficulty and force required for demolding.
Improving product quality
Protecting the upper:
Easy demolding means workers don't need to use great force or sharp tools to pry or scrape the shoe, thus avoiding scratches, tears, or deformation of the upper (such as leather or fabric) caused by forceful demolding.
Ensuring Perfect Details:
The Teflon coating ensures that the sole material is completely incorporated into every fine texture of the mold (such as the brand logo and anti-slip patterns), perfectly preserving these details during demolding without damage from adhesion. This is crucial for the intricate patterns of high-end athletic and work shoes.
Improved Production Efficiency and Reduced Costs
Shorter Cycle Time:
Demolding is significantly faster and simpler, greatly reducing the overall production cycle time from mold closing to injection molding to mold opening and shoe removal.
Reduced Mold Release Agent Use:
Uncoated molds typically require frequent application of chemical mold release agents.
The Teflon coating can completely replace or significantly reduce the use of mold release agents, directly saving on costs and avoiding the following problems:
Mold release agent residue buildup on the mold surface requires regular cleaning.
Mold release agents can negatively impact the workshop environment and worker health.
Mold release agents can affect the performance of secondary processing (such as adhesives).
Easy to Clean and Maintain Molds
Non-stick:
The smooth surface of the Teflon coating makes it difficult for dust, adhesive residue, or other contaminants to adhere.
Easy to Clean:
Even small amounts of residue are easy to clean; usually, a simple wipe with a cloth is sufficient, keeping the mold clean and extending its lifespan.
Chemical Resistance and Durability
Resistance:
The Teflon coating has excellent chemical stability, resisting the corrosive effects of various chemicals, oils, and solvents used in shoemaking.
Heat Resistance:
It can withstand the high temperatures (typically above 260°C) required for shoe mold vulcanization and injection molding processes.
Abrasion Resistance:
High-quality Teflon coatings have good abrasion resistance, able to withstand a certain degree of mechanical friction, resulting in a long service life. Of course, improper use (such as scratching with hard objects) can still damage the coating.
