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Home » Blogs » Blogs » Pin-Point Gate vs. Side Gate in Injection Molds: Key Differences

Pin-Point Gate vs. Side Gate in Injection Molds: Key Differences

Views: 0     Author: Site Editor     Publish Time: 2025-05-20      Origin: Site

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1. Side Gate (Edge Gate)

Characteristics:

  • Location: Typically placed at the edge or parting line of the part.

  • Size: Larger gate (width: 1–3mm, thickness: 0.5–1.5mm).

  • Structure: Directly connects the sprue to the part; requires manual or mechanical trimming.

  • Mold Type: Uses a two-plate mold, making it simpler and cheaper.

Advantages:

  • Low flow resistance, suitable for thick-walled parts or high-viscosity plastics (e.g., PP, ABS).

  • Easier mold maintenance and lower manufacturing cost.

Disadvantages:

  • Visible gate marks, requiring post-processing (trimming).

  • Higher risk of weld lines (especially in multi-cavity molds).

Best For:

  • Low-cost, large parts where appearance is not critical (e.g., containers, appliance housings).


2. Pin-Point Gate (Small Gate)

Characteristics:

  • Location: Often placed on the top or non-visible surface (multi-point gating possible).

  • Size: Very small (diameter: 0.2–1mm), resembling a needle point.

  • Structure: Requires a three-plate mold for automatic gate separation.

  • Ejection: The runner system detaches automatically during mold opening.

Advantages:

  • Minimal gate marks, ideal for high-gloss or transparent parts (e.g., lenses, medical devices).

  • Reduces weld lines and improves surface finish.

  • Enables balanced filling in multi-cavity molds.

Disadvantages:

  • More complex mold design (higher cost).

  • Higher flow resistance—not ideal for fiber-filled or high-viscosity materials.

  • Sensitive to contamination (clogging risk).

Best For:

  • Precision parts, transparent components, and high-volume automated production.


3. Key Comparison Table

FeatureSide GatePin-Point Gate
Gate SizeLarge (manual trimming)Very small (auto-separation)
Mold TypeTwo-plate (simple)Three-plate (complex)
AppearanceVisible marksNearly invisible marks
Flow EfficiencyLow resistance (thick parts)High resistance (thin parts)
CostLowerHigher (precision required)
Common MaterialsPP, ABS, HDPEPC, PMMA, PET

4. How to Choose?

  • Use Side Gate for cost-sensitive, large, or non-cosmetic parts.

  • Use Pin-Point Gate for high-end products requiring fine aesthetics or automated production.

Final Tip:

Always consider material flow behavior, part geometry, and production volume when selecting a gate type. Consulting with a mold engineer can help optimize design and performance.



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