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Degating

Degating is a crucial process in the production of injection-molded plastic parts, widely used in the automotive industry and other manufacturing sectors. It involves the careful removal of excess plastic material, known as the “gate” or injection point, which remains attached to the part after molding. Degating is essential for producing high-quality finished components, improving both their aesthetic appearance and dimensional accuracy. Effective degating ensures that parts meet the required specifications, facilitating assembly and ensuring the optimal functionality of the final product.

From Manual Cutting to Laser Precision

For years, the removal of excess plastic material (gates) from injection-molded parts has been carried out using a heated blade in manual or semi-automatic stations or, in more complex cases, with robotic solutions designed to follow the geometry to be cut. In addition to the ongoing maintenance required for the cutting blades and their lack of precision, traditional techniques impose a significant limitation on the geometries of molded parts. In particular, the automotive sector has driven the development of new technologies to perform high-precision degating on increasingly complex geometries, where the cut area is very often visible. The development of dedicated laser solutions ensures precise and clean removal of gates, even from complex parts.

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Advantages of Laser Degating

Ecology

It eliminates the need for manual trimming or chemical processes, reducing waste and environmental impact.

Accuracy

Laser degating allows for the selective removal of gates, leaving the main part intact.

Uniformity

The process ensures consistent results in large-scale production runs, reducing variability.

Efficiency

Laser degating is faster and more automated than manual methods, thereby increasing productivity.

Talk to a LASIT expert

Let’s evaluate together how to improve the productivity and efficiency of your line. Fill out the form: one of our specialists will contact you back to analyze your need and define the best steps, with no obligation.

How we will help you

First Discussion: one of our experts will contact you back (via phone or email, as you prefer) for an initial chat and to fully understand your need.
Tailored analysis: Based on your need, we will decide together on the next step. We can arrange an in-house visit, analyze your process in videocall, or conduct free marking tests on your samples.
Your solution: We will study and present you with a customized solution designed to integrate seamlessly into your current production process.
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Applications of Laser Degating in the Automotive Industry

Interior Parts

It is used to remove gates from dashboard components, decorative elements, and control panels, ensuring a smooth finish.

External Components

Laser degating helps produce clean edges on body panels, headlight housings, and grilles, improving both aesthetics and functionality.
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Key Factors in Selecting a Laser Source for Degating

Wavelength

The laser wavelength is selected based on the specific plastic material. Different polymers react differently to specific wavelengths, ensuring efficient and selective removal of the gates.

Laser Parameters

The laser source allows for the control of parameters such as power and frequency, making it possible to process parts with different plastic thicknesses and gate sizes.

Laser Spot Size

For degating, striking a balance between precision and speed is crucial. Smaller laser spot sizes allow for more precise gate removal, while larger spot sizes can increase processing speed for larger and thinner components.