Mould Temperature Controller-Common Types and How to Choose

If your moulded parts keep showing warping, sink marks, or poor surface gloss, your temperature control may be the real problem. A reliable mold temperature controller keeps every cycle consistent by balancing heat and cooling precisely.

In this article, you’ll learn what a mould temperature controller is, how it works, the common types used in injection and die-casting, and how to choose the right one for your process and budget.

Common Types of Mould Temperature Controller - injection moulding temperature（images 1）

What Is a Mould Temperature Controller

Proper mould temperature control directly affects product quality, cycle time, and energy efficiency. A small temperature imbalance can cause warping, sink marks, or poor gloss. Using a mould temperature controller ensures consistent thermal balance and extends mould life.

In injection moulding, temperature determines how the molten plastic flows and solidifies. If the mould is too cold, the plastic freezes before filling all cavities. If too hot, parts deform or stick to the mould. Key benefits of precise control include:

Improved dimensional accuracy: Parts retain shape and fit better.
Reduced cycle time: Faster solidification increases production speed.
Lower defect rate: Fewer rejects reduce overall chiller system load.

An MTC complements the mold cooling system to achieve energy-efficient and repeatable results in every production cycle.

How Does a Mould Temperature Controller Work

A mould temperature controller works by circulating a heating or cooling medium through the mould channels. It monitors the mould temperature and adjusts the heating or cooling flow automatically. This feedback loop keeps the process temperature stable and responsive to changes.

The control loop includes a heater, pump, sensor, and control valve. When the mould temperature drops, the heater activates. When it rises, the system diverts heat to a chiller or heat exchanger.

This dynamic balance prevents overheating, reduces start-up time, and ensures that each shot remains consistent in quality and dimension.

Common Types of Mould Temperature Controllers

Water-Type Mould Temperature Controller

Water-type controllers use water as the heat transfer medium. They are ideal for temperatures below 120°C. Water provides fast heat transfer, low operating cost, and easy maintenance. However, scaling can occur if the water quality is poor.

Oil-Type Mould Temperature Controller

Oil-type controllers use thermal oil for high-temperature moulding up to 350°C. They are used for engineering plastics, die casting, and thick-walled moulds. Thermal oil offers better stability but requires more careful sealing and maintenance to prevent leaks.

Dual Temperature Controller (Heating & Cooling)

Dual systems integrate heating and cooling in one unit. They quickly switch between heating during start-up and cooling during production. This setup suits processes that require tight temperature control or frequent temperature changes.

How to Choose the Right Mould Temperature Controller

To choose the right mould temperature controller, consider your temperature range, heating and cooling needs, and process precision. Match the unit’s performance with your mould material, production cycle, and existing chiller system. Choosing incorrectly can cause inefficiency, overheating, or inconsistent part quality.

Temperature Range and Medium

Temperature range: The working temperature your mould needs.
Choose water-type for below 120°C or oil-type for above 150°C. Always verify the medium’s thermal stability and compatibility with mould materials.

Heating and Cooling Capacity

Heating capacity: The amount of energy the controller can add per hour.
Cooling capacity: The rate at which heat is removed via the chiller.
Match both to the mould’s heat load to avoid long start-up times or temperature drift.

Control Precision and Response Speed

Precision defines how closely the chiller unit holds the target temperature. Response speed defines how fast it reacts to temperature changes. High-precision control minimizes warping and surface defects.

Compatibility with Existing Systems

Check whether the MTC integrates with your mould chiller or central cooling system. Poor connection can lead to unstable flow or inaccurate readings.

Maintenance, Safety, and Energy Efficiency

Look for easy-to-clean piping, automatic alarms, and energy-saving modes. Poor maintenance leads to scaling, reduced flow, and eventual failure. An efficient unit reduces long-term operating cost and improves overall productivity.

LNEYA Mould Temperature Control Solutions

LNEYA offers advanced mould temperature control systems that combine heating and cooling in one unit. Our controllers maintain tight temperature stability, integrate easily with existing mould chillers, and support high-precision injection and die-casting processes worldwide.

Let us know your requirements

FAQ About Mould Temperature Controllers

Water-type controllers typically cover 25°C–120°C, while oil-type models can reach 150°C–350°C depending on the application.

Yes, if the system is designed for it. Some advanced multi-channel mould chillers feature independent temperature control for each circuit, allowing multiple moulds to run at different setpoints simultaneously. However, for standard single-loop units, it’s still best to use separate controllers for precise temperature management.

Water-type controllers are safer, faster, and ideal for lower temperatures. Oil-type controllers handle higher temperatures and provide more stable heat for demanding moulds.

Inspect and clean the system every 3–6 months—check pumps, filters, seals, and heating elements to ensure efficient operation.

It regulates mould temperature during injection or compression moulding to improve product quality, reduce cycle time, and prevent defects like warping or sticking.

Use a mould temperature controller that circulates water or oil through the mould channels, maintaining precise heat balance through PID temperature control.