Flash Removal for Injection Moulded Plastics: Smooth Edges, Fast
- Sean Davies
- Jun 27
- 2 min read
A Smarter Way to Finish Plastic Components: Robot-Mounted Burners for Flash Removal on Complex Part Geometries
Injection moulded plastic parts often emerge from the mould with small, unwanted extensions known as flash. This flash forms when molten plastic leaks through joints in the mould, leaving behind thin films or sharp edges on the finished component. In industries where aesthetics, safety, and precision matter—such as automotive manufacturing—removing flash is a critical step.
Why Flash Removal Matters
Flash can compromise the quality of the final product in several ways:
Sharp edges may be unsafe or unacceptable in consumer-facing products.
Irregular shapes can affect how parts fit or function in assemblies.
Visual defects caused by flash can reflect poorly on brand quality.
While mechanical methods exist for removing flash, they are often labour-intensive, inconsistent, and unsuitable for high-throughput production environments.
Flame-Based Flash Removal: Efficient and Repeatable
At Rapidflame, we offer flame-based solutions for injection moulded plastic part flash removal. Using carefully controlled gas burner systems, such as our D6 burner, we apply heat to melt and smooth the flash without damaging the underlying component. This technique:
Eliminates sharp edges
Preserves surface integrity
Requires no physical contact
Can be fully automated for repeatability
See It in Action
Watch the video below to see a robot-mounted D6 burner removing flash from a plastic automotive component with speed and precision:
Tailored Systems for Your Application
Our flash removal systems can be integrated into automated lines and tailored to specific part geometries. Whether you’re producing interior trim, exterior components, or under-hood plastics, we can configure a solution that suits your production needs.
Interested in upgrading your flash removal process?
Contact us to learn how our flame treatment systems can improve efficiency and finish quality in your production line.
