Node

A point given by x-, y- and z-coordinates in a cartesian coordinate system is named node in finite element analysis.
In a 2D or 2.5D system a node is part of a beam element or a triangle element.
In a 3D system a node is part of a tetraeder, hexaeder or a prism element.
The analysis in a FEM system is normally done from one node to his neighboring nodes.
Calculated results will be assigned to the given node.

Node in Plastic Industry

Injection Molding Simulation: One node with his x-,y-,z-coordinates.

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This glossary of plastic industry is provided by PLEXPERT Canada Inc.

Non-Return Valve

During the injection process, the screw is pushed forward in the injection unit.
The pressure applied to the screw, will cause melted material flowing back into the screw.
To prevent this effect, the tip of a screw is equipped with a movable ring called Non-Return Valve.
During the dosing process, this ring open a gap between screw and screw tip. This allows the melt to enter the area in front of the tip.
During injection stroke, the ring is pushed back and it closes the gap.
This prevents material to flow back into the screw.

Non-Return Valve in Plastic Industry

Injection molding machine: Screw tip with a Non-Return Valve.

Related topics:

3-zone screw
Melt Filter

This glossary of plastic industry is provided by PLEXPERT Canada Inc.

Octabin

Plastic granules are typically stored in small casks (bag ware), large casks (octabins) or in silos.
The octabin is an octagonal container made of corrugated cardboard.
It is designed in a way that a binding quantity of 1 t can be packaged for most plastic granules.
Often, an octabin is additionally laid out with a thin plastic foil into which the granules are filled.
If the same material shall be supplied to multiple machines octabins are used on a central material station.

Octabin in Plastic Industry

Plastic: One octabin on a euro palett.

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This glossary of plastic industry is provided by PLEXPERT Canada Inc.

Oil separator

In compressed-air systems, a dedicated separation unit removes oil aerosols and fine particles from the airflow. This ensures clean compressed air suitable for sensitive applications where even minimal oil content could cause quality or performance issues. The purification also protects downstream components from wear, thus extending their service life. Filtration and coalescence mechanisms collect and discharge oil droplets effectively. Overall, the device improves operational reliability and maintains stable process conditions.

Oil separator in Injection Molding

Oil separator on the rear wall of an injection molding machine

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Compressed-air dryer

This glossary of plastic industry is provided by PLEXPERT Canada Inc.

Opening Stroke

When the mold is placed on the mounting plates of the injection molding machine, it can be opened easily.
The movable side of the mold is moved back from the fixed side with the help of the clamping unit.
The distance between the two halves of the mold is called opening stroke.
The size of the machine defines the possible opening stroke.
With a big enough distance, parts can be ejected easily.
The deeper a core, the larger the necessary opening stroke.
At the same time, the opening stroke should be kept as short as possible in order to reduce the cycle time.
When choosing the machine, the needed opening stroke should be considered.
Therefore, a good machine data sheet should always contain the necessary opening stroke for the mold.

Opening Stroke in Plastic Industry

Injection Molding Machine: The necessary Opening Stroke to eject parts easily.

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This glossary of plastic industry is provided by PLEXPERT Canada Inc.