Proper Storage and Maintenance of Extrusion Tooling for Long-Term Inactivity

In the plastic extrusion industry, the condition of the tooling—particularly the extrusion dies and calibration tools—plays a critical role in ensuring consistent product quality and production efficiency. When an extrusion tool is not in use for an extended period, proper storage and surface protection become essential to avoid corrosion, mechanical damage, or deformation. Below is a comprehensive guide to cleaning, storing, and preserving extrusion tooling during downtime.

1. Cleaning After Use

Before any tooling is put into storage, it must be thoroughly cleaned. This includes removing:

Residual polymer (using suitable solvents or controlled heating)
Carbonized material (via chemical cleaning or soft blasting)
Grease, dust, or contaminants (with industrial degreasers or alcohol-based cleaners)

Special attention must be paid to small channels, vents, and corners, where material residues tend to accumulate. These areas, if not cleaned properly, can become hardened over time and difficult to remove, potentially leading to flow inconsistencies during future use.

Avoid using harsh mechanical tools (such as steel brushes or screwdrivers) that may scratch the tool surfaces or damage sealing edges and contact faces.

2. Drying and Inspection

After cleaning, the tools should be completely dried to avoid moisture-induced corrosion. Use compressed air or lint-free cloths to ensure no water or cleaning agent remains.

This is also the ideal time to inspect the tool for any wear, cracks, deformation, or corrosion. Any issues should be documented, and the tool either serviced or clearly marked to avoid future issues during installation.

3. Surface Protection for Storage

To prevent corrosion, especially in high-humidity environments, all critical surfaces should be coated with a protective layer. Recommended options include:

Light machine oil or corrosion-inhibiting oil (e.g. VCI oil)
Anti-corrosion sprays or wax-based coatings
Grease for short-term protection (though it may require more cleaning before reuse)

For polished sealing or guiding surfaces, apply the protective coating carefully and wrap the tool in VCI (volatile corrosion inhibitor) foil or rust-resistant paper.

4. Storage Conditions

Extrusion tooling should be stored in a dry, dust-free environment, ideally in a climate-controlled room with humidity under 60%. Recommended practices include:

Using custom-made racks or foam-lined tool drawers to avoid metal-to-metal contact
Labeling each tool with part numbers and application details
Keeping tools off the floor to prevent accidental damage from movement or moisture

Heavy tools should be supported evenly to prevent bending or stress, and tools with multiple parts should be assembled loosely or stored with all components together to avoid mismatches later.

5. Periodic Checks During Storage

For tools stored longer than 6 months:

Check every 3–6 months for corrosion or damage
Reapply protective coatings if they begin to break down or evaporate
Rotate parts slightly or rewrap to avoid pressure marks

Conclusion

Proper care and storage of extrusion tools not only extend their lifespan but also help ensure reliable startup and reduce downtime when reintroducing them to production. With thorough cleaning, protective treatment, and appropriate storage conditions, manufacturers can maintain tooling in production-ready condition even after months of inactivity.

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