i-mold: New Tunnel Gate Inserts Enable Deflections of up to 270 Degrees

The new TGBL tunnel gate inserts from i-mold enable the melt flow to be deflected by up to 270°, allowing, for example, lid rims to be gated from the inside (stylized cross-sectional model of the insert, which is always supplied as a single piece) - (Image: i-mold).

i-mold is expanding its range of tunnel gate inserts with the TGBL series. Presented at Fakuma 2026, the inserts enable the plastic melt to be deflected by up to 270 degrees. This allows, for example, lid rims and caps to be gated from the inside, leaving no gate marks on the visible outer surface.

The TGBL series is available in three sizes. Size 1 is designed for shot weights of up to 35 g, size 2 for up to 120 g, and size 3 for up to 1,000 g. Thanks to their compact, one-piece design, the inserts require very little installation space in the injection mold.

The end of the gate channel has a spherical shape. When the insert is contoured to match the molded part, this produces a circular gate regardless of the inclination of the surface to be gated. The gate diameter can be adjusted by varying the depth of material removal.

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Due to the pronounced deflection and narrow gate cross-section, the inserts are primarily intended for thermoplastics with comparatively low stiffness, such as polyolefins. According to the manufacturer, fillers or reinforcing materials such as talc or fibers should not be used in these applications. Otherwise, there is a risk that the sprue will break off in the sharply curved channel during demolding. As the mold opens, the sprue is first sheared off and then pulled out of the channel by elastic deformation.

The standardized, interchangeable inserts are made of a highly wear-resistant material and manufactured using metal injection molding. This process enables smooth gate channels and precisely defined gate dimensions, helping to ensure reproducible production conditions and consistent gating points.

In addition to the new TGBL series, the range includes further contourable tunnel gate inserts for different gate positions. TGLL inserts are designed for internal gating below the parting line on surfaces with a low inclination. The TGML and TGHL series enable gating points at medium and greater distances above the parting line, respectively.

For other installation situations, TGS and TGR inserts are available for flat parting lines, while SGC types feature a curved channel for gating points located deep inside the part. The TPS model is a standing pointed tunnel gate insert for side gating. With the TGBL series, i-mold is expanding its portfolio with a solution for highly deflected gates positioned on the inside of molded parts.

Fakuma 2026, Friedrichshafen, Germany,
October 12-16, 2026, Hall A2, Booth 2411

More information: www.i-mold.de

i-mold GmbH & Co. KG, Michelstadt

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