Method and Apparatus for Extracting Columns from Molds

摘要

A column or other elongate molded part is molded using an elongate tubular mold having a closed end, an open end and a flexible sidewall. After the column or other molded part is formed, it is extracted from the mold by pulling the column or other molded part axially through the open end of the mold. The column may be extracted using an expandable plug or gripper that is inserted into the interior of the column or other molded part through the open end of the mold. The expandable plug or gripper is expanded to engage an inner surface of the elongate molded part.

主权项

1. A method for extracting an elongate molded part from a mold that is open at one end, said method comprising:
inserting a gripping tool into the elongate molded part through the open end of the mold; expanding the gripping tool to grip an inner surface of the elongate molded part; and applying an axial force to the gripping tool to pull the molded part through the open end of the mold.