Types of Injection Molding

Injection molding. To the masses, it sounds like industry jargon or just another random process among thousands that make up the manufacturing chain. In fact, the technology behind injection molding is complex, intricate and worthy of better understanding.

Injection molding is a manufacturing process that allows for parts to be produced in large volumes. It works by injecting molten materials into a mold and is usually used to mass produce thousands of like items. The most common injection molding materials are thermoplastic and thermosetting polymers. Not only are there several materials that can be used in this process, there are also several types of plastic molding. You’ll want to find a company that specializes in providing just the services you need, which may include compression molding, transfer molding and professional injection molding of plastic and rubber parts.

Plastic injection molding involves injecting molten plastic at a high pressure into a mold. After the mold has cooled, it is opened to reveal a solid plastic part. These can be intricate parts for medical applications up to large parts for automobiles. A major advantage of injection molding is the ability to scale production from a prototype to a large number of parts. Injection molding is better for the environment as it produces minimal waste. Plastic injection molding also provides reliable consistent results across high volume production.

Compression molding is a method where plastic is placed into a heated mold and pressed into a specific shape. The heating process ensures that the plastic maintains its maximum strength. Manufacturing is completed following cooling with trimming and removal from the mold cavity. When strength and durability are important, compression molding is appropriate and especially wise when replacing metal parts with plastic ones.

Compression molding is used to produce components for a many industries including including automotive, household appliances, clothing fasteners, and more.

Transfer molding is quite similar to compression molding. In this process, however, the material is placed in a transfer chamber prior to entering the mold. Multiple cavities can be used within transfer molding since the material is entering the mold after the mold is closed. This allows for the creation of more complex parts than can be made with compression molding, and the cure time is faster as well. Unlike injection molding, the transfer mold casting material may start the process as solid, and transfer molding uses higher pressures to uniformly fill the mold cavity.

When it is time to start your plastic injection molding project, look no further than your local professionals at The Tool Room. For over 40 years, our award winning service and design has been helping companies in Missouri and nationwide with state-of-the-art technology and knowhow. Find out more by calling 573-437-4154 today.