5 Ways to Extend the Life of Your Paving Stone Mold

Mold life does not depend on steel quality alone. How the mold is used and maintained on the production floor also determines how long it keeps its dimensions. The five tips below will help you get more productive life out of your mold.

1. Clean it at the end of every shift

Concrete that dries in the mold cavities and on the tamper heads causes dimensional deviations and surface defects in the next production run. Cleaning the mold with compressed air and suitable hand tools at the end of each shift prevents hardened concrete from building up.

2. Check the alignment between tamper heads and mold cavities

Tamper heads should enter the mold cavities centered. Any misalignment causes rapid wear on the cavity side walls and the edges of the tamper heads. Check the alignment after every mold change and at regular intervals.

3. Set vibration and pressure to suit the product

Excessive vibration and pressure increase the load on the mold without improving product quality. Settings matched to the product type and height protect both stone quality and mold life.

4. Keep aggregate and mix under control

Sharp-edged, hard aggregates wear mold surfaces faster. Fluctuations in the mix grading and moisture content also change the load on the mold. Keeping raw material quality consistent makes mold wear predictable.

5. Measure wear and replace parts on time

Check the dimensions of the mold cavities and tamper heads at regular intervals. Replacing worn parts on time keeps product dimensions within tolerance and prevents damage to other parts of the mold.

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If you have questions about maintaining or refurbishing your mold, get in touch with us.