The laws of physics dictate that force applied to any given material will cause compression. The type of material, amount of force and length of the material are all contributing factors to the amount of compression that results.

In a conventional mold, lock or heel blocks are used to prevent the slide from moving or "backing up". While "movement" of the slide may be prevented with blocks, compression is not prevented since sufficient preload is not attainable through conventional means. An example is illustrated in the graphic below:

Conventional Method

The graphic to the right is an example of a conventional slide system. A cam pin provides the means of movement and the heel block "locks" the slide in the tool. As there is not a practical means of achieving preload without extreme wear issues, the area of the slide subject to the compressive force of the plastic/metal being injected is highlighted in red. This area is quite large and under high force would yield a measurable amount of compression.

A lack of sufficient compression and preload positions the load point at the lock point allowing reactive compression of the slide inside the tool up to the point where it meets the heel block.

KOR-LOK™ Method

KOR-LOK™ delivers 100% preload to rated load and once locked, no pressure is required to maintain force. In other words, KOR-LOK™ pre-compresses the slide up to the shoulder stops inside the tool. This moves the load point much closer to the part and can virtually eliminate the effects of compression, mold flex and thermal expansion. The result is a superior match line, more consistent part quality and ZERO FLASH!™

Additional benefits include smaller mold bases and reduced cost of labor due to the elimination of complex internal actions. Wear is practically eliminated as KOR-LOK™ delivers preload axially or on-plane creating no angular forces or wear on the slide. Mold delivery is also improved as KOR-LOK™ installation is quite simple and standard delivery is about 1 week!