Is the silicone mold a cold runner mold or a hot runner mold?

Silicone molds are typically associated with cold runner molds rather than hot runner molds. Cold runner molds use channels to direct the molten material to the cavities within the mold. In the case of silicone molds, a cold runner system allows the material to cool and solidify as it flows through the mold, shaping the final product.

Hot runner molds, on the other hand, involve a system of heated channels that deliver molten material directly to the mold cavities. This method is often used for thermoplastics to minimize material wastage and reduce cycle times. However, due to the specific properties and requirements of silicone materials, cold runner systems are more common in silicone mold applications.

It’s important to note that mold design can vary based on the specific needs of the product and the material being used. Always refer to the guidelines provided by the mold manufacturer or consult with experts in mold design and silicone processing for the best approach based on your particular project.