O-Ring Rubber Molds:

Laser Cleaning Specific Applications:

A. Silicone/Rubber Self-Residue

Residues Caused by Demolding Difficulties: Silicone and rubber have extremely strong adhesion properties. Even with the use of release agents, they can easily tear and leave residue on fine mold structures (such as textures and edges).

Vulcanization Residue: During the high-temperature vulcanization process, some materials undergo cross-linking and solidification, tightly adhering to the mold surface and forming a difficult-to-remove film.

B. Release Agent Accumulation

To address high viscosity, production often requires the use of large quantities of release agents (such as silicone oils and solvent-based). Repeated application and heating of these release agents on the mold surface can form a thick, sticky, carbonized layer, severely affecting the product’s surface gloss and release performance.

C. White Mineral Dust

To prevent rubber compounds from sticking to each other, talc and other release agents are often used in production. These powders can mix with the release agent, forming a sticky deposit that can clog the mold’s vents and textures. 

Application Advantage :

1.Complete Removal of Microscopic Residues:

The parting line of an O-ring mold is crucial for ensuring a flash-free product. Traditional methods make it difficult to completely remove trace rubber residue and release agent carbon deposits that solidify in the gaps along the parting line. Laser cleaning precisely vaporizes these stubborn contaminants, restoring a sharp parting line and eliminating O-ring flash at the source.

2.Non-Destructive Cleaning, Protecting Mold Precision:

A mold’s dimensional accuracy and surface finish are crucial. Sandblasting and mechanical grinding inevitably wear away the mold steel, especially the finest mold textures. Laser cleaning is a “selective removal” method, removing only surface contaminants (rubber, release agent, carbides) without damaging the mold base. This means the mold’s original dimensions and carefully carved textures are permanently preserved, significantly extending its lifespan.

Video Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZnOpUkwtFyc

Sample Photo Before cleaning and after cleaning