Pre-start Checklist for Vertical Injection Molding Machines

A pre-start check helps the production team find obvious setup, safety, material, and controller issues before the first automatic cycle. It is not a substitute for the machine manual or site training, but it gives supervisors and operators a practical structure for daily review.

Use this checklist before production starts, after a mold change, after long downtime, or when a new operator takes over the machine.

Before the First Cycle

• Confirm the work area is clear of tools, loose inserts, packaging, and unrelated parts.
• Check that the mold, fixture, and table area match the planned production setup.
• Confirm safety doors, guards, emergency stop devices, and light curtains are in normal condition.
• Confirm the material, insert, cable, or substrate matches the production order.
• Confirm the correct controller program is selected for the mold and product.
• Check that required auxiliary equipment is ready and in the correct operating state.

First-cycle Observation

The first cycle should be watched carefully from a safe position. Confirm mold close, injection, table movement, part removal, and operator loading sequence before allowing continuous production.

If the first cycle shows abnormal sound, delayed movement, repeated alarms, part sticking, insert shift, short shot, flash, or safety-device interruption, stop and review the condition before continuing.

What to Record

Record the machine model, mold number, program name, material, operator, date, and any observed change from the last stable run. If a problem appears later, this record helps Deboge understand whether the condition started before production or developed during the run.

When to Contact Deboge

Contact Deboge when pre-start checks reveal repeated alarms, abnormal movement, unclear controller status, or a machine condition the site team cannot confirm safely. Prepare controller screenshots, a short description of the setup, and safe photos of the mold or work area.

Related Reading

• Operation Guides
• Safety Guidelines
• Troubleshooting Center
• Controller Settings