Formtemperatur

Formtemperatur, or form temperature, is the temperature of the forming surface in manufacturing processes where a material is shaped against a boundary, such as a mold or die. It is a critical parameter that influences filling behavior, solidification, crystallization, surface finish, residual stresses, cycle time, and dimensional accuracy.

In plastic processing, including injection molding, extrusion, and thermoforming, the mold or tool temperature determines the melt’s viscosity at the interface, the rate of cooling, and the development of crystallinity in semi-crystalline polymers. If the form temperature is too low, filling can be incomplete and parts may warp; if too high, cycle times increase and surface quality may suffer. The optimal form temperature depends on the material, part geometry, and desired properties, and is controlled by built-in cooling or heating systems.

In metal and glass forming, form temperature refers to the temperature at which deformation occurs. In hot forming, the temperature is typically above the recrystallization threshold to maximize ductility; in cold forming, it is below that threshold. In glass forming, shaping generally occurs near the glass transition or within a viscosity window suitable for the shaping method. Form temperature affects microstructure, surface finish, and tool wear.

Measurement and control rely on sensors and thermocouples embedded in molds or tooling, along with closed-loop heating and cooling systems. Proper management of form temperature reduces defects, optimizes cycle times, and improves process repeatability across production runs.