Abstract: A method for adjusting the closing force of a mold of a plastics processing machine. In order to work with an optimized closing force, the method comprises the steps of: a) in a first production cycle: Closing the mold with a nominal initial closing force and recording the mold deformation caused thereby and calculating the deformation work introduced by the mold deformation; b) in a subsequent further production cycle: Closing the mold with a reduced closing force and recording the resulting mold deformation and calculating the deformation work introduced by the mold deformation; c) Recording the determined deformation work versus the closing force, carrying out a linear extrapolation of the course of the deformation work versus the closing force and determining a reduced closing force which is at a predetermined percentage value of one of the previously determined deformation work; d) Carrying out the subsequent further production cycle with the determined reduced closing force.

Abstract: A radiant heat barrier layer is sandwiched between and bonded to two closed cell foam layers by non-heat conducting adhesive.