Introduction
Mould release oil sprays are industrial surface treatment products used to prevent adhesion between moulds and finished parts during manufacturing processes such as plastic injection, rubber moulding, polyurethane casting, composites, and concrete forming. These sprays create a thin lubricating barrier that enables easy demoulding, improves surface finish, and extends mould life.
The method of making mould release oil spray focuses on selecting suitable oils, stabilizing components, and spray systems to ensure effective release performance, uniform coverage, and operational efficiency.
Working Principle of Mould Release Oil Spray
Mould release oil sprays function by forming a continuous, low-surface-energy film on the mould surface. This film prevents bonding between the mould and the processed material during curing or cooling.
In mould release oil spray formulations, the oil layer provides lubrication and separation while minimizing transfer to the final product.
Main Components of the Formula
A typical mould release oil spray making formula consists of the following component groups:
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Release oils for lubrication and separation
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Emulsifiers or stabilizers for formulation uniformity (if required)
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Carrier solvents or water for sprayability
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Optional performance additives for corrosion protection and stability
The balance of these components determines release efficiency, application ease, and residue control.
Oil Selection
The oil is the primary active ingredient in mould release oil spray formulations. Mineral oils, vegetable oils, or synthetic oils may be used depending on temperature resistance, mould material compatibility, and environmental requirements.
Key oil characteristics include:
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Thermal stability
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Low surface tension
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Minimal carbon residue
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Compatibility with mould surfaces
Emulsification or Dilution System
Mould release oil sprays can be formulated as:
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Pure oil systems
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Oil-in-water emulsions
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Oil diluted with compatible solvents
For emulsion-based systems, nonionic emulsifiers are commonly used to ensure stability and uniform spray application. Proper emulsification prevents phase separation and ensures consistent release performance.
Additives and Functional Enhancers
Additives are incorporated to improve product performance and shelf life. These may include:
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Corrosion inhibitors to protect metal moulds
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Anti-foam agents to control foaming during spraying
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Stabilizers to maintain formulation integrity
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Biocides for water-based systems
Additive selection must not interfere with release efficiency or surface finish.
Manufacturing Procedure
The method of making mould release oil spray typically follows these steps:
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Preparation of the carrier phase under clean mixing conditions
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Controlled addition of emulsifiers or stabilizers
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Gradual incorporation of release oil under agitation
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Homogenization to achieve uniform dispersion
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Filtration to remove impurities
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Filling into spray containers
For aerosol products, propellant charging is performed after filling under controlled safety conditions.
Spray System Options
Mould release oil spray products may be supplied as:
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Non-gaseous trigger or pump sprays
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Gaseous aerosol sprays using propellants
Aerosol systems require careful valve and actuator selection to ensure consistent spray delivery without clogging.
Application Method
The spray is applied as a thin, uniform layer onto a clean and dry mould surface before the moulding process begins. Excess application is avoided to prevent residue buildup or surface defects on finished parts.
Regular reapplication intervals depend on process conditions and material type.
Quality Control and Testing
Quality checks for mould release oil spray include:
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Release performance evaluation
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Film uniformity assessment
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Stability and separation testing
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Spray pattern consistency
These tests ensure reliable performance during industrial use.
Summary
The method of making mould release oil spray involves formulating a balanced system of release oils, carriers, stabilizers, and optional additives to achieve effective mould separation and easy application. Proper component selection and controlled manufacturing steps result in a reliable mould release solution suitable for a wide range of industrial moulding operations.
