Injection molding is a manufacturing process in which material is injected under high pressure into a mold cavity. The product cures within the mold and then is ejected for use. With injection molded products being so versatile, their popularity has grown over the years. It is reported that the industry earns more than $7 billion each year.
The variety of products this process can be used to produce is simply staggering. Molding is perfect for large-scale production and offers high accuracy. The reason injection molding is a smart process to use when producing a wide array of complex plastic components is that it can benefit OEMs in a wide range of industries.
Keep reading to learn more about what injection molding has to offer, and if it’s right for you.
Cost-Effective Method
Custom plastic molding is a manufacturing process that is incredibly versatile, and compatible with a range of surface finishes and materials. It produces strong, durable, and aesthetically pleasing parts. It has been improved with the addition of automation and digital processes that can help OEMs reduce costs.
There are two ways to reduce the number of plastic parts in a product. One method is overmolding, where an additional part is inserted into the mold to create one complex part. The second method is plastic part consolidation, which involves combining two or more components into a single component for a more streamlined design.
However, the main way that this process reduces costs is by reducing the total number of issues or helping to increase the moldability of the part design before production even begins. This will reduce future tooling changes as well.
The Flexibility of Color and Material
The color and the material are two of the most important considerations in making a plastic part. By exploring all of the available options, you will find that they are limitless.
Thanks to this new development in polymers, we now have a lot of new resins to choose from. Luckily, there are a few variables you need to keep in mind when picking a resin for your project that will help make the process much easier. These include impact strength, water absorption, the flexural modulus of elasticity, heat reflection, and tensile strength.
There are many colors of plastics available for injection moldings such as liquid colors and pre-colored resins, each with its unique benefits and drawbacks.
Provides Complex Geometry and Details
When you inject the correct scientific method into it, injection molding can make any manufacturer exceptionally good at producing intricate and detailed plastic parts. The details are usually much more significant than what would be achieved with other methods.
Furthermore, the process can create more complex components while also guaranteeing they are uniform. This enables you to produce millions of virtually identical parts.
Faster Production
Injection molding is a popular and efficient method for manufacturing a range of products. It’s quick, low-cost, and environmentally friendly. For these reasons, it’s the go-to option for many companies looking to start production. With a process that’s very fast in comparison to other methods and the high-quality content it provides, it’s clear that this system is more cost-effective and much more efficient.
The speed of the process depends on the size and complexity of the mold. On average, about 15 to 120 seconds pass for every cycle time. Reduced cycle time means increased productivity in a short period, which, in turn, increases profit margins and revenue.
Reduced Labor Costs
With plastic injection molding, the labor cost will be lower than the other types of manufacturing. The ability to design on a higher level and make them faster saves money and is more efficient.
Molding equipment is usually configured to use self-gating and automated tooling, which helps keep operations streamlined and prevent excessive wear. With very minimal supervision, this process is much less time-consuming.
Reduced Waste
When you need someone to partner with for high-volume injection molds, companies must consider how manufacturing initiatives will affect their commitment to safety, sustainability, and quality.
In the molding process, it’s pretty common for there to be leftover products. A company that takes a sustainable approach to production will find a way to recycle any excess product.
Environmentally-conscious plastic injection molding companies are equipped with state-of-the-art machinery and innovative products to save energy, minimize packaging and transportation, and reduce waste.
Final Thoughts
Most companies find injection molding to be more affordable and viable than other techniques. It provides cost-effectiveness, reduced waste, and flexibility of color and material. However, if you are still not sure about injection molding, then take the time to go over all the benefits once more so you can decide the best option for you and your business.
