The Impact of Deep Hole Drilling on Mould Productivity

The Impact of Deep Hole Drilling on Mould Productivity

Mould manufacturing plays a critical role, especially in production areas such as plastic injection moulding, metal casting and sheet metal forming. Mould performance directly affects production efficiency. Factors such as structural integrity, cooling system layout and processability are determinants of quality. At this point, deep hole drilling technology is an important process that increases the efficiency of mould production.

What is Deep Hole Drilling?

Deep hole drilling is a special machining method that enables the precise drilling of very long holes in proportion to their diameter. According to the generally accepted definition, if the depth of the hole is at least 10 times its diameter, this process is classified as ‘deep hole drilling’. Conventional drilling methods can create problems such as tool deviation , surface roughness and chip discharge. However, these difficulties can be overcome with special machines and tools.

Why does the need for deep holes in moulds arise?

Deep hole drilling in moulds is mostly used to create cooling channels. The correct placement of these channels, which are placed in the mould to remove the heat generated during production, directly affects the part quality. By well-planned, deep and correctly positioned cooling channels  the mould cool  homogeneously and product quality improves..

Deep hole drilling may also be required for connection points, mounting holes or sensor placements in moulds with complex geometries. These processes require high precision and surface quality.

Effects of Deep Hole Drilling on Mould Productivity

1. Shorter Cycle Time with More Efficient Cooling

With deep hole drilling, more optimised cooling channels can be created. This allows the mould to cool faster and shortens the cycle time. Short cycle time increases production capacity.

2. Increased product quality

Homogenous temperature distribution prevents from deviation and surface defects in parts. Cooling systems inserted by deep hole drilling improve product quality and provide dimensional accuracy.

3. Extended Mould Life

Reduced thermal stress prevents from the  cracks and deformation in the mould. Optimised cooling reduces mould wear, delay the need for maintenance.

4. Design Flexibility

Deep hole drilling makes it possible to drill holes where conventional methods cannot reach. This allows designers to produce more innovative and functional moulds.

5. Long Term Cost Advantage

Although the initial investment cost may seem high, deep hole drilling reduces overall costs with less waste, lower maintenance and longer mould life.

The result

Deep hole drilling technology has an indispensable position in modern mould production. This technology offers great advantages for companies that adopt the principle of ‘high quality, low cost, fast production’. For this reason, it is of great importance that engineers and technicians involved in mould design and production follow the developments in this field.