Preheating a mold has several benefits. It can help reduce the mold's thermal shock, which can occur when a cold mold is suddenly heated, and this can cause the mold to crack or distort. Preheating the mold can also help reduce the overall cycle time since it will already be at a high temperature when the molten metal is poured into it.
The best temperature for preheating an anode copper mold will depend on the specific alloy of copper being used and the desired casting temperature. Generally, a preheat temperature of around 250-300°C (480-570°F) is a good starting point for an anode copper mold. It is always a good idea to consult the manufacturer's recommendations or a materials engineer for specific guidance on the best preheat temperature for a particular application.