Filter injection molding

What is Filter injection molding

Filter injection molding is a specialized molding process that uses filters within the injection molding machine to improve product quality and consistency. Typically. Filter injection molding is the same process as insert molding and overmolding; only the substrate is the filter component instead of plastic or metal inserts, but there are still some small differences between them. Filter components are normally soft, and during the filter mold fitting process, you need to check the fitting status very carefully. This will be more complete than insert molding and overmolding.

During the filter injection molding process, we normally use a vertical injection machine instead of a horizontal injection machine because the filter component may be easy to drop off. A vertical injection machine will solve this issue very easily. And it will be easy for the operator to put the filtering nesh into the mold.

Filter injection molding

Why Use Filter Injection Molding

In some cases that the plastic parts need filtration function, so that need filter molding process,

One of the primary advantages of filter injection molding is to improve the molding product quality. Like overmolding or inert molding, can strength the part quality and reduce the assembly cost. as well as surface finish.

Another advantages of filter injection molding is saving cycle time and increase the production capacity, this is good for the high volume filter plastic parts production requirement.

Of course comparing to the advantages of filtering injection molding, there are some disadvantages as well, for example the initial filter injection mold cost, even you need 100 pcs of filter molded parts you still need to make a mold for that, this is mean cost.

Filtering injection molding

Filter injection molding process

To make filtration injection molding, the molding process is pretty much the same as overmolding. Below, we briefly explain the price of making filter molding.

Part design

First, you need to have a design. You could hire a design company or your plastic molding supplier to make a design for you.

Filter injection mold

Once the part design is finished, you need to find a custom injection molding company to make filter injection molds according to your design. Be sure to find a professional plastic mold company that has rich experience in making filtering injection molds. If you are not sure who has the most experience in this filtering mold, you are welcome to contact us, and we will solve your issues.

Filter injection molding trial

Once the filter injection mold is finished by your supplier, they will first trial the mold to make some filter-molded components and send them to you to check. They may have some issues from the first time, but please ask them to fix all of them and send you a new sample to approve. Once you have the final, high-quality filter-molded components, the filter injection mold can be ready for production.

Filter injection molding production

After you approve the final sample, you can ask your molding supplier to start production, but you need to specify your packing requirements, because this is very important as well. If you do not explain this, maybe your supplier will use simple packing and may damage the goods during transportation. We normally inform our customers what type of packaging will be used. If our customers agree with us or they require special packing, then we will follow the requirements.

Delivery

Once the production is finished, the final step is delivery. We provide worldwide delivery service for our customers. We first quote both air shipment and boat shipment costs to our customers. Once our customers agree with the price, we will ship the goods to their address. If our customers have a better shipment cost, then they will arrange the shipment. But mostly all of our customers are happy with our shipment cost because we do not add any profits to the shipment cost, which means most of our customers have a better shipment cost, and then they will arrange the shipment. But mostly all of our customers are happy with our shipment cost because we do not add any profits to the shipment cost, which means most of our customers have a shipment cost higher than our cost.

filter injection molding parts

Filter Injection molding applications

There are many industries that use filtering molded parts, such as car filtering components, air filter components, and many more.

We develop filtration-molded products according to customer requirements to suit a wide range of industries, which include automotive, medical, home appliances, and many more. We can use thermoplastic materials such as nylon, PP, ABS, etc.

How to make high-quality filter injection molding products

Making filter injection molds is not easy because filtration injection molds are more complex than other types of inset or overmolded molds.

It needs high-precision machining and good mold fitting experience for the fitting area between the overmold and filter.

We are one of the top 10 plastic injection molding companies in China that offer custom injection molding services worldwide. We have rich experience in filter injection mold as well as other custom injection molds such as overmolding, two-shot molding, stack mold, unscrew mold, high-temperature material mold, and so on.

If you have any project in hand that needs professional filter injection molding or another custom mold, feel free to contact us, and we will provide you with the price in 24 hours.

TPU plastic components

Isocyanates and polyols are basic constituents along with chain extenders and catalyst which ultimately form the TPU. In addition to elasticity TPU also shows resistance to the followings.

  • Abrasion and wear
  • Oils
  • Greases.

When the question that thermoplastic polyurethane is safe or not arises, it is considered safe to be utilized for numerous applications. The basic reason of TPU being safe is because of its chemical structure and characteristics. Thermoplastic polyurethane finds its application in numerous sectors including following areas.

  • Sportswear manufacturing industry
  • Auto industry and
  • Medical sector

In its raw form Diisocyanates can be hazardous so this risk is eliminated by ensuring the complete reaction during the production process. So the production process of thermoplastic polyurethane is very controlled and it ultimately provides the safe usage of TPU. The evaluation of TPU by the regulatory authorities proved it to be safe to be utilized even for the food and medical applications. However, manufactures are required to adhere, follow and implement the regulations and standards devised by these regulatory bodies.

Is TPU safe

Definition of TPU

TPU is composed of polyols and diisocyanates chemicals. These are present in thermoplastic polyurethane in the form of alternate soft and hard segments. The properties and characteristics of TPU are the combination of the following.

  • Elastomers
  • Conventional thermoplastics.

TPU is considered very suitable to be utilized in many important sectors because it maintains its structural integrity at elevated temperatures and in harsh environments. These sectors include medical sector, food industry, electronics industry and automotive industry. Go to TPU injection molding to know more.

The manufacturers always try to find cost effective solutions from business point of view, yet at the same time they require quality to be maintained. This tough scenario is resolved by the standard thermoplastic processing techniques. These techniques are adopted due to following reasons.

  • Less cost and
  • Better performance
  • Ability of thermoplastic polyurethane to be processed by these techniques

Generally, there are three major techniques which are adopted for processing of TPU. These methods are as follows

  1. Blow molding,
  2. Injection molding
  3. Extrusion.

Thermoplastic polyurethane is extensively utilized in protective cases, footwear and apparel because of flexibility and transparency it offers. These products require good looks and durability which Thermoplastic polyurethane provides. Moreover, there are certain applications like toys for children, which include direct human touch. Moreover, thermoplastic polyurethane has been declared safe to be utilized for these applications by regulatory bodies as well.

Properties of TPU

The major characteristics of TPU are the followings.

  • Biocompatibility
  • Process ability
  • Over molding
  • Cost effectiveness
  • Recyclability
  • Versatility in applications
  • Weather ability
  • Strength and durability
  • Elastic properties

TPU bears the properties of elasticity and flexibility. The property of being flexible allows TPU to be utilized in harsh environments covering a wide range of temperature.

Safety Concerns Related to TPU

There are numerous safety concerns regarding the safe utilization of thermoplastic polyurethane. This is because of the chemical composition and characteristics of the TPU. The safety concerns which are of significant importance are discussed below.

  • The production and processing of TPU must be very controlled. This is important to for two reasons.
  • To achieve the required properties
  • To ensure the complete reaction of isocyanates (This will prevent the reaction of un-reacted isocyanates with other chemicals)
  • TPU can also cause the sensitivity of respiratory system or irritation of respiratory system. This is mainly because of the inhalation of thermoplastic polyurethane fumes or dust. Moreover, allergic reaction related to skin can also be caused by TPU if a sensitive skin is exposed.
  • TPU bears the inherent property of being flammable. So in order to avoid fire related risks and hazards, handling of TPU must be carried out carefully. The safety measures need to be adopted and implemented to prevent any fire incident.
  • Disposal of TPU is another important parameter which is related to the safety concerns of TPU. Because if TPU is not disposed off properly it can affect the environment adversely. TPU shows slow degradation and also there is risk of chemicals leaching. However, the compatibility of TPU with other chemicals can resolve this issue. Moreover, burning of TPU results in the release of harmful and toxic gases. These dangerous gases include the followings.
  • Hydrogen cyanide
  • Carbon monoxide.
  • It is pertinent to mention that adhering to safety standards and regulations devised by regulatory bodies is of significant importance to prevent risks and hazards. The production and processing of TPU must be carried out in an environment which has proper ventilation. The utilization of personal protective equipment is mandatory to avoid any health risks. Moreover, the health of the workers performing duties in TPU exposed environment need to be regularly monitored. This practice is essential to identify health issues at early stage which can be subsequently treated.
  • TPU is not easy to be recycled because it has mixed polymer nature. Chemical additives are also present in TPU which affects its biodegradability. Sustainable practices need to be adopted at all levels so that risks and hazards posed by TPU on the environment can be eliminated.

TPU plastic part

Answering The Question, Is TPU Safe?

TPU is considered safe to be utilized in numerous applications because of the following reasons.

Biocompatibility

TPU possesses the characteristic of biocompatibility. It means TPU will not pose any harm to living tissues and can be tolerated without getting any adverse affects. This characteristic is of significant importance in the scenarios including direct or indirect human touching. This mainly includes the following applications.

  • Textiles
  • Medical devices
  • Wearable technology

Non-Toxic nature

TPU is generally manufactured by utilizing raw material of non toxic nature. This is of important significance keeping in view the final utilization of TPU product. The usage of non toxic raw material in production process ensured that there will be no leaching of hazardous chemicals or dangerous substances. Subsequently, there will be no health risk of the end product user. Moreover, TPU production complies with safety related regulatory standards which are implemented in numerous sensitive industries such as medical sector and consumer goods.

Resistance to Chemicals

Thermoplastic polyurethane tends to resist the followings.

  • Solvents
  • Oils
  • Greases
  • Synthetic chemicals

This important property plays an important role in safe utilization of TPU. When thermoplastic polyurethane is exposed to common environmental parameters the chemical resistance property of TPU ensures that it does not release any dangerous or hazardous substances. In addition to that this characteristic also increases the lifespan and durability of thermoplastic polyurethane.

Flexibility and Durability (Utilization without breakage)

Thermoplastic polyurethane is considered very suitable for many applications in which repeated stretching and bending is carried out. This is because good mechanical properties that TPU possess. The safe utilization of Thermoplastic polyurethane is achieved because excellent toughness, elasticity and flexibility prevent the breakage of TPU. The major usage of TPU in this context is in following areas.

  • Coatings for fabrics
  • Sports equipment
  • Cases (flexible) for electronic devices

Resistance to Heat

There are numerous applications which require thermal stability because products or items are exposed to high temperatures in those applications. Thermoplastic polyurethane provides thermal stability at high temperatures without degrading thus providing safe usage. Consequently TPU finds its utilization in such applications including the followings.

  • Industrial seals
  • Automotive parts
  • Footwear

Environmental Safety

Thermoplastic polyurethane is considered safe to be utilized keeping in view its impact on overall environmental safety.TPU has the ability to be recycled and can be reused for numerous applications.TPU differs from others materials in recycling process due to followings.

  • TPU can be melted and reshaped without significant loss of characteristics
  • TPU is eco friendly
  • TPU does not release toxic substances

Regulatory Compliance

There are certain regulations and standards devised by the regulatory bodies related to following parameters.

  • Occupational health
  • Consumer safety
  • Environmental impact

Manufacturers which are producing TPU comply with the standards and regulations to provide the requirements of above mentioned parameters. There are two major standards which are adhered by the manufacturers to ensure the safety of TPU.

  1. FDA (Food and Drug Administration) regulations, European Union
  2. REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorization, and Restriction of Chemicals), United States

Raw Materials of TPU and Their Safe Processing

The production of thermoplastic polyurethane involves various raw materials. These raw materials ultimately form TPU after undergoing chemical reactions. It is important to handle these raw materials in a proper way during the production process because these raw materials can be hazardous if their handling is not carried out carefully.So, in production process a tight controlling and close monitoring of these raw materials is ensured. Subsequently, this results in the production of safe and non toxic thermoplastic polyurethane.

Following parameters related to raw materials need to be considered during the production of TPU.

Isocyanates

These are vital components in manufacturing of TPU. Isocyanates and polyols are basic constituents along with chain extenders and catalyst which ultimately form the TPU. It is important to note that isocyanates are toxic in raw form and can be the cause of respiratory sensitization and respiratory irritation due to followings.

  • In un-reacted form if inhaled
  • If Saturation is exceeded than the exposure limits

These risks and hazardous are eliminated and prevented by completely reacting the isocyanates with polyols during the manufacturing process to obtain the polyurethane polymer.

Polyols

These chemicals are another important raw materials in manufacturing of TPU. These materials are non toxic and safe to be utilized in the raw form as well. The chemistry of these chemicals shows that these are the polyethers or polyethers with hydroxyl groups. These chemicals undergo chemical reaction with isocyanates to provide polyurethane polymer.

Chain Extenders

In order to adjust the characteristics and properties of final polymer, chain extenders are utilized in the production of TPU. These chain extenders generally include the followings.

  • Diamines
  • Glycols

It is pertinent to mention that these materials are safe and non toxic providing that they are handling properly and are ensured to be completely reacted during the polymerization process.

Catalysts and Additives

In addition to above mentioned raw materials certain catalysts and additives are also added during the production process of TPU. These catalysts and additives are added to enhance the following properties.

  • Processing characteristics
  • UV resistance
  • Flame retardancy

These catalysts and additives are generally considered safe to be utilized in the production process of TPU .However, selection of these materials is carefully carried out by the manufacturers to ensure the followings.

  • These materials comply with the safety regulations
  • These materials does not pose any hazard in the final product

Conclusion

Thermoplastic polyurethane is considered a safe material to be utilized in many renowned applications and sectors. Although there are some raw materials such as isocyanates which can be hazardous in un-reacted form if not handled properly but controlled production process and compliance to regulation standards ensures its completion reaction. The final product TPU is inert and safe and finds its applications in automotive industry, medical sector and consumer products because of its bio compatibility, on toxic nature and enhanced mechanical properties. There are numerous international bodies that devise the regulations and standards related to safe usage of TPU.

These bodies such as US based FDA (Food and Drug Administration) and the European union based Chemicals Agency (ECHA) has approved that the utilization of TPU is safe. This approval is based on numerous tests and data sheets related to the safety of TPU. This approval provides the authority that TPU is safe to be utilized because its production and processing is in compliance with the devised health and safety standards and regulation. The final products of TPU also underwent extensive testing to ensure their safe usage before they are launched into the market.

If you want to know more simialr injection molding materials, please go to is TPE safe page to know about TPE plastics.

Polypropylene Injection Molding

Polypropylene injection molding or PP injection molding, is a molding manufacturing technique using polypropylene, which is a type of thermoplastic polymer material that is exposed to heat until it turns to melt. The process forces the low viscosity molten polymer to flow into specially designed molds. On cooling, the liquid turns into a solid plastic and assumes the mold’s shape. This technique is most effective when used on the polymer in its processed form. This technique enables the creation of geometries that would otherwise be challenging to achieve. Curious about polypropylene itself? Now, let’s explore more about polypropylene and its uses, along with the reasons for its popularity in injection molding.

In this article, we will give you a comprehensive description of injection molding polypropylene and discuss the strengths of PP material as well by considering its applications across manufacturing sectors.

Polypropylene injection molding

Types of Polypropylene Used In Molding Applications

The most common types of propylene employed in molding applications include;

1. Homopolypropylene (PP-H)

PP-H, or homopolypropylene is the most used type of polypropylene, characterized by high rigidity and strength as a result of crystalline structure. It is commonly employed in uses where the material will be exposed to a lot of force, as it is with containers, auto parts, and more. PP-H has good chemical and heat resistance hence; it is used in products such as buckets and other household utensils. However, it is less flexible and therefore not as effective in more flexible applications.

2. Random Copolymer Polypropylene (PP-R)

PP-R is a random copolymer polypropylene that contains only a small amount of ethylene, which increases its flexibility and impact strength. This makes PP-R suitable for use in piping systems, automotive parts, and any other consumer goods that are expected to have a long life cycle. Due to these properties, it is commonly used in hot and cold water pipes and containers where strength and flexibility are a requirement.

3. Block Copolymer Polypropylene (PP-B)

PP-B is a block copolymer polypropylene that has a block structure with ethylene thus making it have better impact strength and elasticity compared to PP-A. This type is applied in the automobile industry, in the manufacturing of shockproof packaging material and other heavy-duty consumer products. The automotive sector and protective packaging industries are ideal for PP-B because of its flexibility and damping properties in stressed applications.

Polypropylene Injection Molding: How Does it Work? 

PP Plastic Injection molding provides an advantage of mass production of identical plastic parts. High volumes- from a thousand to millions of identical parts can be produced at one time. Because the intended mold is reused several times in the part’s manufacturing process. This makes polypropylene injection molding another suitable option to meet the large demand and ensure that the products produced are of equal quality, simultaneously.

Process Conditions For Propylene Injection Molding

Table 1: Operational Parameters for pp plastic injection molding.

Parameter  

Specification

Drying Requirement Dry at 80-90°C (176-194°F) for 2 hours; moisture level must be under 0.1%.
Melting Temperature Range 220-280°C (428-536°F)
Mold Temperature Range 20-80°C (68-176°F)
Heat Deflection Temperature (HDT) 100°C (212°F) at 0.46 MPa (66 PSI)
Injection Temperature 32-66°C (90-150°F)
Tensile Strength 32 MPa (4700 PSI)
Flexural Strength 41 MPa (6000 PSI)
Density 0.91 g/cm³
Injection Molding Pressure Up to 180 MPa
Shrinkage Rate 1.5-2.0%

Comparison of Polypropylene Grades for Injection Molding

Let’s compare, different injection molded polypropylene grades for the molding process.

Table 2: Technical Specifications of different injection molding polypropylene plastic Grades.

Polypropylene Type Tensile Strength Elongation at Break Flexural Rigidity Heat Resistance Notable Features
Pro-fax 6323 4,930 psi 11% 210,000 psi 199.0 °F General-purpose, resists stress cracks
Pro-fax SG702 2,900 psi 6% 150,000 psi 180.0 °F Impact-resistant, suitable for automotive use
Pro-fax 6523 4,790 psi 12% 200,000 psi 190.0 °F Stiffness, ideal for food packaging
Pro-fax PD702 4,500 psi 12% 170,000 psi 190.0 °F Maintains dimensions well, easy to process
FHR P5M6K-048 3,900 psi 11% 153,000 psi 183.0 °F Clarity-enhanced, visually appealing

Polypropylene Injection Molding

Design Guidelines for Polypropylene Injection Molding Parts

Molding of polypropylene is easy, but to get the best result, one has to follow certain design principles. This section focuses on the practical recommendations that are necessary to produce long-lasting and high-performance polypropylene components.

Living Hinges Key Factors

When designing living hinges in polypropylene, it is good to work at a thickness of between 0.2 mm to 0.51 mm. For optimum performance, the radii should be wide and the hinge should have a flat shoulder. This design approach provides flexibility and strength to withstand the usage of the hinge when used several times.

Guidelines for Wall Thickness

In the case of polypropylene parts, the thickness of the walls of the product must not exceed 0.635 mm to 3.81 mm thickness. Thick parts should also have smooth changes in thickness from one level to another to avoid defects such as sink marks. Moreover, ribs should preferably be less than half the thickness of the adjoining walls to provide strength and prevent the formation of structural voids.

Radii in design

Radii in the mold design also assists in reducing stress concentrations. So, it significantly impacts the life cycle of the part. The suggested radius should be at least twenty-five percent of the wall thickness. The radius of curvature should be 75% of the thickness of the wall which gives both the strength and the fine surface finish.

Draft Angle Recommendations

Polypropylene can take very small angles of drafting, as small as one degree, which is adequate for most parts. But if your part has textured surfaces, it’s recommended to increase the draft angle up to five degrees depending on the depth of the texture. In the case of filled polypropylene materials, it may be necessary to have a draft angle of up to ten degrees to facilitate easy ejection of the part and to improve the quality of the final part.

Setting Part Tolerances 

Requirements for tolerance of polypropylene parts can be classified into commercial tolerance or fine tolerance. Commercial tolerances are relatively larger and cheaper as compared to fine tolerances which are precise but expensive. For instance, a commercial tolerance for a 20 mm part will be in the region of ± 0.125 mm, while the fine tolerance for the same part is about 0.075 mm. Thus, it’s crucial to understand that if tighter tolerances are desired they can have a large impact on the production cost.

Polypropylene Material Processing

Polypropylene has a melting point within the range of 160-170°C and this means that correct temperature control is required while processing the material. Additionally, it is crucial to dry the polypropylene pellets for the injection molding process. For optimal outcomes and splay-free parts, the moisture must be kept below 0.02%.

Injection Molding

The PP injection molding temperature is needed around 220°C and 280°C while the mold temperature is between 30°C and 80°C. These conditions are as follows to have proper flow and solidification. Cycle time is another critical consideration. Usually, it refers to the time taken to complete a cycle and it should be reduced to avoid warping, and efficient cooling is important. In addition, cooling channels must be designed in such a manner that allows equal distribution of heat all over the surface.

Extrusion Processing

Extrusion is carried out by melting Polypropylene at a temperature of 210°C to 250°C. Temperature control and cooling rate are two critical factors that need to be well controlled to allow the formation of the desired product properties.

The extrusion die is a critical component in the process. It has to be designed to not allow the die to swell and control the flow of the material that is being extruded to achieve the desired quality of the final product.

Blow Molding

The blow molding process involves heating polypropylene and then forming it into a parison and blowing it in a mold. Temperature and inflation pressure should be strictly maintained to produce the desired shape of the product. Ejection Part cooling is required to retain the part shape and dimensions. The cooling rate should be dependent on the size and complexity of the part in question.

PP injection molding

Quality Inspection:

The two areas that are of particular importance include;

  • Sanitary and Storage Procedural Measures The Purity of polypropylene depends on handling and storage procedures and clean equipment.
  • Quality Control Periodical examination during processing helps to ensure that the material and the final products are of the right quality and standard and meet the requirements.

What are The Benefits of Propylene Injection Molding?

The following are the benefits of polypropylene injection molding:

  • Affordability: Polypropylene injection molding is relatively cheap and more so for productions that will require large quantities. The process has a low material cost and little wastage since the material that is in excess can be reused in the system. This efficiency means that large production volumes are offered at cheaper unit prices than would be in the case of smaller production volumes.
  • Short Cycle Time: The injection molding process can produce high volumes of parts in the shortest time possible. Polypropylene has good thermal properties and hence the molds can be filled and cooled quickly enhancing the production rates and lead times.
  • Superior Chemical Resistant: Polypropylene is highly resistant to a vast number of chemicals such as acids, alkalis, and organic solvents. This property makes it suitable for use in applications in extreme conditions including car parts and chemical vesse.
  • Least Impact: Polypropylene has less impact strength as compared to HDPE, however, copolymer polypropylene has good impact strength. This makes it a preferred choice for products that require mechanical strength and resistance to impact, for example, automotive and durable consumer goods.
  • Dimensional Stability: Once it has been cooled, polypropylene has high dimensional stability. This stability is very essential to guarantee that the molded parts are fitting correctly and performing their intended tasks without requiring further modification.
  • Low Moisture Absorption: Polypropylene has little or no capability to absorb moisture and therefore the strength and dimensions of the material do not change when exposed to different humidity levels. This property makes this property suitable for use in applications where the material is exposed to moisture most of the time.
  • Flow Characteristics: Due to the favorable flow characteristics it is easier to process polypropylene and this makes the molding process easier. It makes it possible to produce large quantities of molded products and also helps overcome the typical problems with molding, such as warping or lack of filling.

What are the Limitations of Propylene Injection Molding?

Some of the demerits of Polypropylene Injection Molding include the following;

  • High Thermal Conductivity: Polypropylene has a low heat resistance and thus it cannot be used in high-temperature areas. Polypropylene has poor thermal stability and the parts made from it may deform or lose their strength at temperatures above 100°C (212°F).
  • UV Stability Polypropylene is not very resistant to UV light and when exposed to UV light for long, it undergoes degradation by fading to an undesirable color, becoming brittle, and exhibiting low mechanical properties. This limitation makes it necessary to use UV stabilizers or coatings especially when the product is to be used outside.
  • High Shrinkage Rate: As much as 1.5% to 2.0% of polypropylene shrinks, the parts made from this material may warp or undergo dimensional changes if not well controlled. This can also influence the quality of the final product because the performance of the product can be compromised where precision is required.
  • Not Suitable for High Stress Application: Although polypropylene has good impact strength it does not offer high strength and stiffness. In applications where high tensile or flexural loads are applied on the part, PP may not offer sufficient strength.
  • Limited Ability to Produce Small Features: While polypropylene has many uses, it is not easy to produce very small features and intricate details. The flow characteristics of the material and the cooling properties may reduce the level of detail in very fine designs.
  • Less number of colors available: Polypropylene has fewer choices of colors as compared to other plastics in the market. Striking specific or even desired shades may be possible only with the help of colorants or other kinds of treatments.

Common Parts Manufactured by Polypropylene Injection Molding

Propylene injection molding commonly produces the following parts:

  • Dashboard Panels
  • Glove Compartments
  • Mirror Housings
  • Plastic Containers
  • Kitchen Utensils
  • Food Containers
  • Crates and Pallets
  • Medical Device Housings: Lots of medical injection molding parts made from PP material.
  • Plumbing Pipes
  • Toys: Many of plastic injection molding toys made by ABS and PP materials.

Gates and runners in polypropylene injection molding tool

In polypropylene injection molding, gates and runners constitute some of the most important features that control the flow of the molten material into the mold cavity. The design of these elements should enable proper filling, and the quality of the finished parts should be very high.

Polypropylene injection molding shop

Sprue Design

The sprue serves as a conduit for molten polypropylene, connecting the injection molding machine to the mold cavity. This is a cylindrical design with a spherical part at the end that fits properly into the machine nozzle. This is critical to prevent leaks and ensure a smooth flow of materials through the system and equipment.

Runner System

Molten polypropylene travels through runners from the sprue to the mold cavity. Molds with multiple cavities design their runners with branches to evenly distribute the material. We suggest employing cold slugs at junctions to prevent early stiffening and ensure free flow. The runner diameters range from 4 to 7 mm to ensure that there is optimal flow and cooling for the mold. 

Gate Functionality

Gates are the last opening through which molten polypropylene is allowed to flow into the mold cavity. The dimensions and the kind of gate determine how the material is transported throughout the manufacturing process and the quality of the last part. They are pin gates and edge gates and they are chosen depending on the type of mold that is to be made. The gate should allow for easy flow of materials into the mold while at the same time reducing the formation of surface defects.

Gate Sizing and Placement

Small gates are normally used to minimize friction and prevent the wear out of the material. The thickness of the gate land is the part of the gate that joins the cavity should be as thin as possible so that it can be easily filled. Gate location is important, usually located at the thickest section of the mold to achieve an even spread of material and minimize defects.

Design Considerations

Some of the common problems such as sink marks and poor filling can be solved through proper gating and runner systems. To improve production efficiency and part quality, updating the designs at some intervals based on the best practices and feedback on the process is effective.

Industry Applications of Propylene Injection Molding

PP injection molding often finds its applications across various manufacturing sectors;

Food Packaging

Polypropylene is widely used in food packaging since it is safe and has a longer lifespan. Take-out containers and food storage products such as cups and containers are made from PP foam for thermal insulation and protection. PP material is used in making plastic cups and bottles for beverages and food products since the material does not react with moisture or chemical substances.

Consumer Goods

In the consumer goods industry, polypropylene is preferred for its strength and the ability to be molded. PP is used in small appliances like blenders and hairdryers because it offers impact strength and ease of molding. Polypropylene is safe and durable and it is used often in injection molding toys. Furthermore, polypropylene’s durability is also used in household products such as bins for storage and utensils in the kitchen.

Automotive

The automotive industry is one of the major users of polypropylene as the material is light in weight and has a high degree of strength. PP is utilized in interior trim parts such as dash and panels due to the material’s versatility in terms of appearance and durability. There are also polypropylene glove compartments and mirror housings to give the needed strength and impact protection.

Textiles

It is common knowledge that polypropylene fibers are essential in different textile areas because of their strength and resistance to stains. PP fiber carpets are capable of withstanding wear and stain. PP is used for furniture and automotive interiors since it does not wear out easily and is easy to clean. Due to its excellent characteristics, polypropylene fibers are used in the production of clothing that wicks moisture, providing comfort and performance.

Packaging Films

One of the most important types of packaging films is polypropylene films because of the strength and flexibility that they offer. The applications of BOPP (Biaxially Oriented Polypropylene) films are in packaging due to their high clarity, excellent mechanical properties, and moisture and oxygen barrier properties. CPP (Cast Polypropylene) films are used for heat sealability in flexible packaging applications for a variety of products.

Pipes and Fittings

Polypropylene pipes are used in plumbing and industrial practices since they are chemically inert and can be easily installed. PP plumbing pipes are used for both hot and cold water because of their strength and resistance to corrosion. In industrial applications, the use of polypropylene pipes is in chemical and waste handling systems, and the material is well endowed with the strength and capability of withstanding aggressive conditions.

Summary

This article gives more information about polypropylene (PP) as an engineering plastic, including the different types available, the properties of the PP, and the complexities of the injection molding process. It also examines the challenges associated with selecting the right equipment, addressing issues related to product design, and discussing the fundamentals of mold design. In the same vein, the article discusses some of the major defects that are likely to occur during production and how to correct them.

OEM contact manufacturer

To ensure the best PP material and injection molding production, it is wise to seek advice from an experienced supplier. An experienced provider can provide recommendations on the most suitable PP plastic injection moldings for your product’s functional requirements and the final product’s appearance, ensuring a successful project.

FAQs – Polypropylene Injection Molding

Q1. What are the major categories of polypropylene Pallets for injection molding?

They include Homopolypropylene (PP-H) for rigidity, Random Copolymer Polypropylene (PP-R) for flexibility, and Block Copolymer Polypropylene (PP-B) for impact resistance.

Q2. What should be done to polypropylene before molding?

Polypropylene has to be dried at 80-90°C for not less than 2 hours to bring the moisture content to below 0.1% reduction in molding quality is achieved to avoid the formation of poor-quality products.

Q3. What are some of the problems that may occur in polypropylene injection molding?

Some of the most common imperfections are sink marks, flowlines, venting issues, warping, and incomplete filling. These problems can be solved by adjusting the thickness of the wall, increasing venting groove, the temperature of the mold, and the pressure of injection.

 

 

TPE injection moulding

Plastic Injection molding China

We have over 15 years of experience in offering high quality plastic injection mold and plastic Injection molding production  in different shapes and sizes.

We have a team that supports you from part design, mold making and massive production.

To save your cost we provide professional technical expertise and advice to enable you to decide the kind of mold that suit your product.

Over the years we have been able to deliver high quality services with guaranteed satisfaction and we hope to deliver same to you.

Send us your requirement for quotation we will quote you within 24 hours.

What is plastic Injection Molding

Plastic Injection molding can be defined as a procedure, which can help in shaping plastic, in its requisite fold. Moreover, for the better shape, you might want to take help of rigid mold or frame. This technique can also be used to deal with the objective creations, associated with the various shapes and sizes. Moreover, the products comprise of both highly and simple designs. On the other hand, some companies can even offer complex designs, to match the growing demands of the clients.

Plastic molding process

For the primary step, you need to go through the plates of sheets, where the liquid material will be placed. The high melting point is used to deal with the right melting the plastic or other raw materials. After placing the liquid in the structure, high pressure is incorporated from outside, for availing the right shape of the dice. After a mold is cooled down completely, you can remove the molded parts and use for the final manufacturing services. However, you need to determine the material’s amount along with minimum energy requirement, associated with the heated melting point.

Underlying concept available

When you are Looking for China Injection Molding Companies, you are easily to get hold of correct underlying concept, associated with the plastic injection molding . The main aim is to take a look at the dice first, to produce the exact shape, as per the requirements. To match up with the growing demands of clients

injection molding machine

injection molding machine

More on injection molding

Whenever the main area relates to injection molding service, you are in urgent need of the mold cavity. After cooling down the product, the mold can be removed from this place, with ease. This procedure of plastic mold China is primarily associated with the prototyping or mass production service, of the related products. The first use of this procedure can be observed in the year 1930’s. From that time on wards, various advancements make this product a leading choice for all. This method can be used for manufacturing various objects, like bottle caps,automotive parts, utensils for the kitchen, cell phone stands and more.

Most polymers can be used in the process, and products produced by injection molding include bottle lids, plastic combs, small pieces of furniture and even car door panels. Essentially, the injection moulding process involves feeding plastic polymers in a pelletized form through a hopper into a chamber.

Injection molding process

injection molding process

As the material passes through the chamber a rotating screw mixes and melts the material. Once sufficient molten plastic material has collected at the end of the chamber the screw acts as a plunger and the material is injected into a mold, usually made of metal. Molds are carefully designed to reflect the exact requirements of the product being produced. Finally, the plastic solidifies into a shape that has conformed to the shape of the mold. Once cooled slightly, sometimes a robotic arm is used to remove the molded components, but it is more common for the freshly-made items to drop out of the mold into a chute leading to a collection container.

Injection Molding & Injection Molding China

We are  one of top 10 mold manufacturers in China, professional in Injection mold and injection molding manufacturing, Sell plastic parts from China to the world, we have been provided with the best quality the over 40 happy customers which they are fully satisfied by our quality and service, you are welcome if you need our supporting, we sincerely hope we could service in the near future and you will be surely happy as same as our other happy customers.

A variety of commercial methods are used to produce thermoplastic plastic products. Each has its specific design requirements, as well as limitations. Usually, part design, size, and shape clearly determine the best process. Occasionally, the part concept lends itself to more than one process. Because product development differs depending upon the process, your design team must decide which process to pursue early in product development. This section briefly explains the common processes used for thermoplastics from Bayer Corporation. Injection Molding, today lots of companies buy molding parts from injection molding China companies, if you need injection molded parts for your business, you need really think about this.

An injection molding machine is used to manufacture plastic products by the injection molding process detailed above. There are two main parts to the machines – the injection unit and the clamping unit. Please go to our injection molding section area to know more information

Do you need injection molding or are you looking for injection mold china partner to make plastic molds and produce the plastic molded parts for you? Send us an email we will reply to you with two working days.

If you want to know more knowledge, please go to our other injection moulding page.

 

Custom Molded Products

How Much Does Injection Molding Cost?

The most frequently asked questions in the molding industry are, “How much does plastic injection molding cost?” and “How much does an injection mold cost?” Well, the answer to those questions largely depends on several factors, especially given that plastic mold production has the highest upfront cost of all injection molding types.

If you’ve been wondering about the same thing and are struggling to find the right answer, you’ve come to the right place. This post will delve deeply into the variables that determine the cost of plastic injection molding and the cost of producing the plastic molding parts. By tackling the underlying factors, it will be simple to estimate the expected cost. If you are still unsure about the cost of your plastic injection molding project, you are welcome to send us your 3D drawing, plastic materials, and quantity of parts. We will quote you a price within 24 hours, which will include the complete injection mold cost, injection molding cost, packing cost, and delivery cost.

How Much Does Injection Molding Cost

Basic of injection molding

Injection molding is a widely used manufacturing process that involves injecting molten material into a mold cavity to create complex and precise parts. If you need injection molding parts, it’s crucial to understand the mold and injection molding cost. By gaining insights into the factors that influence injection molding cost and implementing effective cost reduction strategies, businesses can optimize their production and maximize profitability.

If you are searching for plastic molding parts for your upcoming project, the most crucial aspect to consider is the cost of the plastic mold and injection molding components. Your project’s success or failure hinges on these costs. Make sure to thoroughly review these costs before initiating a new project, as failure can result in significant financial and time losses. Let me share some ideas to help you understand the cost of plastic molds and plastic injection molding. This will save you time when developing your new products.

Another easy way to understand the costs for your new project is to send us your 3D part design or sample pictures, along with your specific requirements, such as the materials needed for each part. Estimate the number of parts per time. Do you have any specific requirements for the visible surface? We will provide you with the most competitive price for mold and unit injection molding parts, starting as low as $500 for the mold and as low as $0.005 for the injection-molded parts. You are welcome to use this as a reference for your product and market research.

Various factors influence the cost of injection molding.

There are a variety of factors that can affect the cost of plastic injection molding. These factors include the part’s features, weight and size, type of plastic resin, the number of plastic parts produced each time, and the annual production volume. Each of these factors can impact the plastic injection molding cost and will affect the injection mold cost as well.

Determine the number of cavities and the volume of your mold.

When determining the cost of plastic injection molding, it’s crucial to consider the number of parts produced and the production volume. Producing a small batch of parts may be more expensive on a per-unit basis than producing a larger volume of parts. Additionally, larger production volumes may allow for economies of scale, resulting in lower production costs per piece.

There is a close correlation between the number of cavities in your mold and their cost. A high number of cavities in the mold indicates a longer manufacturing time and the need for additional injection molding tooling cost. The lower the number of cavities in each mold, the lower the pressing time, and the lower the cost of manufacturing for each injection mold.

Part Design Complexity

The part geometry is one of the primary factors that can affect the plastic injection molding cost, because this will increase the initial mold cost. Tight tolerances or intricate geometries necessitate additional time and machining expenses, leading to elevated production costs. Additionally, parts that require special features such as undercuts, threads, or inserts will also increase the mold cost of manufacturing. The size and weight of the part can also have an impact on the plastic injection molding cost. Larger parts necessitate more plastic material, longer cycle times, and a larger tonnage of injection mold machines, all of which can increase overall production costs. Additionally, larger part sizes need larger mold sizes, which will increase mold manufacturing costs.

A more complex part design leads to a more complex mold, which in turn increases the cost of the plastic mold. Choosing a less complex part design could significantly lower your costs. However, it is important to keep in mind the factors that determine design complexity. These factors include surface finishing, fine detailing, and the use of undercuts. You can always seek expert advice to help you choose a design that won’t eat into your budget unnecessarily.

Type of plastic part material

The type of plastic material used for plastic injection molding parts can also have an impact on production costs. Different types of plastics have different costs, with some materials more expensive than others. Additionally, some special materials may cost 5–10 times more than the normal plastic material, so choosing the material is important to save the overall injection molding cost.

There are a number of variables that will influence the cost of plastic injection molding based on your resin choice. Ranging from the quantity, grade, and resin availability to whether the resin requires extreme molding temperatures, all these will affect the overall upfront cost. For example, the presence of abrasive materials in the resin, such as glass or minerals, can impact mold maintenance costs.

This may seem like a straightforward consideration, given that we’re discussing plastic injection molding, which requires only plastic parts. However, there are numerous types of plastic available, including PP, PS, PET, PVC, and HDPE, to name a few. Each type comes with different prices depending on the material and part size. Large parts will require similar large molds and additional material, which in turn will affect the time taken for machining. All of these variables will impact the overall cost for plastic injection molding.

Plastic Injection Molding Cost Guiding Tips

There are roughly four parts of cost for injection molding: plastic material cost, molding production cost, plastic mold cost, part color cost, and packing cost. Let us explain those four mean costs one by one.

Plastic Material Cost

First, the weight of the required material and its unit price determine the plastic raw material cost, which in turn affects the plastic injection molding cost. The weight of the material is determined by the part volume and material density; however, the part’s maximum wall thickness can also play a role. The weight of material that is required includes the material that fills the channels of the mold.

The thickness of the part design largely determines the size of those channels and, consequently, the quantity of raw material. The choice of material also influences the cost of the injection molding part; different types of plastic material have varying prices. For instance, the cost of PP injection molding material differs significantly from that of ABS injection molding material. Therefore, the material cost for a plastic molded product comprises two components: the weight of the material and the type of material used for the plastic molding part.

Injection molding materials

Injection Molding Processing cost

Second, the injection molding machine process cost will affect the plastic injection molding cost; it is primarily calculated from the hourly rate and the cycle time. Understanding how the part design influences molding machine selection is crucial, as the hourly rate directly correlates with the tonnage of the injection molding machine in use. The machine typically references injection molding machines for the clamping force they provide. The projected area of the part and the pressure of the material injection determine the required clamping force.

Therefore, a larger part will require a larger clamping force and, hence, a more expensive molding machine. Also, certain materials with high injection pressures may require higher tonnage machines. The size of the part must also comply with other machine specifications, such as clamp stroke, platen size, and shot capacity. The cycle time, which includes the injection time, cooling time, and resetting time, will influence the cost of plastic injection molding.

Reducing any of these times will lower the production cost. You can reduce the injection time by reducing the maximum wall thickness and part volume. Lower wall thicknesses also reduce the cooling time, as they require less time to cool completely. The cooling time is also influenced by several of the material’s thermodynamic properties. Finally, the resetting time is dependent on the machine and part size. A larger injection molding part will require larger motions from the machine to open, close, and eject the part, and a larger machine requires more time to perform these operations.

Injection Plastic Mold Cost

Third, the plastic injection mold cost has two main components: the mold base and the machining of the cavities. The size of the part’s envelope and design feature primarily determine the mold base’s cost. A larger plastic injection-molded part requires a larger, more expensive mold base. The complex part design requires complex plastic injection molds, which will affect the injection mold cost.

Nearly every aspect of the part’s geometry influences the cost of machining the cavities. Complex plastic mold cavities necessitate significant CNC machining expenses and time, which in turn raises the cost of the plastic injection mold. The primary cost driver is the size of the cavity that must be machined, measured by the projected area of the cavity (equal to the projected area of the part and projected holes) and its depth. Any other elements that will require additional machining time will add to the cost, including the feature count, parting surface, side-cores, lifters, unscrewing devices, tolerance, and surface roughness.

The number of parts also affects the cost of the plastic injection mold. A larger production quantity will require a higher-class injection mold that will not wear as quickly. The stronger mold material results in a higher mold base cost and more machining time. One final factor to consider is the number of side-action directions, which can have an indirect impact on the cost of plastic injection molding. The number of side-cores used determines the additional cost.

However, the number of directions may limit the number of cavities the mold can accommodate. For example, the injection mold for a part that requires three side-action directions can only contain two cavities. While adding more cavities may not directly increase costs, it could potentially lead to further savings.

Injectino mold cost

Injection molding Color Cost

Forth, the color of the injection molding also affects the cost of the plastic injection molding product. Generally, it doesn’t have a significant impact, but it still depends on the specific part color you require. For example, if you need white injection molding parts, the cost will be 10% higher than another color; if you require clear color (clear plastic injection molding) molding parts, the cost will be 15–25% higher than normal color molded parts.

If you require white color injection molding parts, the molding shop must thoroughly clean the barrel, preventing any other color from entering the injection unit and material. This process not only consumes time and material, but also increases the waste rate, which is why the cost of white plastic molded parts is slightly higher than other colors.

When it comes to producing transparent injection molding parts such as PC, PMMA, or PS, a molding shop must utilize a specialized injection unit and a high-quality injection molding machine. This is necessary because any minor defects in the transparent molding parts can easily be detected. So you need to make the best quality molding parts, the waste rate is higher, and you need to use the high-tech injection molding machine, and all of those are more costly than normal molding production.

Injection molding packing cost

If your injection molded parts have special packing requriement, then there will be additional cost as well, small size of molding part will be less packing cost than big size of injection molded parts, special packing materials will increase the packing cost as well, so you need think about about how to pack your injection molded products when you order the molded parts from your plastic molding supplier.

Plastic injection molding cost estimation method

1. Feature-based estimation

For plastic molding production quantities (over 10,000 units), this feature-based cost estimator allows for the use of more durable and costly injection molding tooling due to its minimal impact on the per-part cost. We estimate the material cost based on the part geometry and current material prices. For the production cost, we choose a compatible injection molding machine from a database of over 50 machines and estimate the cycle time based on the part geometry, material properties, and machine specifications.

We select a suitable mold base for the injection molding tooling cost based on standard mold dimensions and mold classes and estimate the required mold machining based on the part geometry and other user specifications. We calculate these three costs (material, production, and tooling) for 4 different cavity arrangements (1, 2, 4, and 8 cavities), and provide the most cost-effective option.

2. Estimate the cost of low volume injection molding.

This feature-based cost estimator is for the injection molding of low volumes (under 10,000 units), where rapid tooling methods (high-speed machining of Class 104 molds) are used to create the mold due to the large impact on the per-part cost. We estimate the material cost based on the part geometry and current material prices. We select a compatible injection molding machine from a database of over 50 machines for the production cost, and estimate the cycle time based on the part geometry, material properties, and machine specifications.

Using standard mold dimensions, we select a suitable mold base for the plastic tooling cost, and estimate the required mold machining based on the part geometry and other user specifications. We calculate these three costs (material, production, and tooling) for 4 different cavity arrangements (1, 2, 4, and 8 cavities), and provide the most cost-effective option.

3. Standard estimate

This standard plastic injection molding cost estimator does not require any part geometry, but more process parameter inputs are required to calculate a more accurate estimate. We estimate the material cost using the part and runner volumes, an updated material database with pricing, and customizable process parameters. You must specify the cycle time, machine rate, and labor rates for the production cost. We provide a detailed cost breakdown for the material, production, and tooling costs after adding the mold cost.

4. Plastic mold cost estimate

This feature-based cost estimator calculates the mold cost for plastic molding. We select a suitable mold base using standard mold dimensions, taking into account the part geometry and mold requirements, such as the number of cavities. We estimate the necessary mold machining for the chosen SPI mold class, and opt for rapid plastic tooling techniques for a Class 104 mold or other low volume products. Go to injection mold cost page to know more.

I trust that this information will provide you with a clear understanding of the costs associated with your project. If you’re ready to begin your plastic injection molding project, please feel free to send us your requirements for a quotation. We will provide you with a comprehensive quote for the mold and molding price, ensuring you have a comprehensive plan for your project.

plastic mold

 

 

Strategies for reducing the cost of injection molding

When creating an injection mold for a plastic part, there are several factors to consider. Firstly, we must create a Design for Manufacture (DFM) report for the part design to ensure there are no significant issues. Secondly, we need to identify potential changes that could lower the mold cost without compromising its functionality. Some designers may find it difficult or impossible to create the mold, which is why we need to create a DFM analysis report. As we all know, reducing the cost of the injection mold and molding is crucial for boosting sales and profits.

Below, we will list some strategies to reduce injection mold and molding costs:

Cost reduction is a critical aspect of injection molding that can significantly impact a company’s profitability. Implementing effective cost reduction strategies can help businesses optimize their manufacturing processes and reduce expenses without compromising quality. Here are some cost reduction strategies to consider:

  1. Material Selection: Choosing cost-effective materials is a beneficial way to reduce injection molding costs. Typically, we utilize materials such as ABS, PA6, and PC/ABS for our projects, but it’s crucial to consider their durability. PP and PE are other cost-effective materials for some suitable projects. Therefore, choosing the right material for your project is crucial; if you’re uncertain about the best option, feel free to reach out to us, and we’ll be pleased to offer our recommendations.
  2. Part Design Optimization: It is important to improve the part design so that it is both manufacturable and cost-effective. Simplifying part geometries, minimizing undercuts, and reducing wall thickness can help lower production costs without compromising functionality. When making a DFM analysis report based on this, you will have some suggestions for design improvement.
  3. Injection molding Tooling Optimization: When embarking on a new project, the cost of injection molding tooling is a crucial consideration, as the initial cost of creating injection molds can be substantial. Even if you only need 100 pieces of injection-molded parts, lowering the cost of the injection mold will help you reduce your tooling investment.
    Once the mold design is finished, all of the team should have a meeting to check if there are any possible ways to simplify the mold manufacturing cost. Those include reducing the slider action, reducing the mold base and caivity size, simplifying the parting line, etc.
  4. Automating injection molding processes: Using automated or robot production can help reduce labor costs and increase production efficiency. By implementing automation technologies such as robotics and sensors, businesses can optimize production and reduce expenses associated with manual labor.

Final summsrize:

We have some simple suggestions on how to reduce the injection mold and molding cost. When you have a small volume of injection molding parts, the first idea is to think about how to reduce the injection mold cost, because the simplest injection mold cost will be at least a few hundred dollars. If you only need a few thousand plastic parts, then trying to save the mold cost will be more helpful.

If you have plastic parts that will need millions of parts in the future, then the first idea is to think about how to reduce the injection molding cost. For high-volume injection molding, unit molding cost is critical for businesses aiming to optimize their manufacturing processes and maximize profitability.

If you have a plastic project in mind and would like to know the cost of injection molding, feel free to send us your requirements for a quotation. Sincere Tech is regarded as one of the top 10 leading plastic mold companies in China. We offer a wide range of custom plastic injection molds, die casting molds, metal parts, CNC machining, surface finishing, and mold components.

Quality is of the utmost importance to us. To make sure we make high-quality molds, we will use a CMM measuring machine to measure all of the mold components, electrodes, and dimensions according to a 2D drawing. To make sure all of the dimensions are within the tolerance, we will test the function of parts and materials to make sure that the final part will meet your requirements. if not quite clear, there is another page related to injection molding cost.

Our capabilities include:

  1. Gas-assist injection molding: We have rich experience in making gas-assist injection molding; when you have this type of mold, welcome to contact us.
  2. Precision CNC machining: Our advanced CNC machines enable us to create high-quality mold components with tight tolerances; this will currently ensure tolerance and precision in the injection-molded products.
  3. Overmolding and Two-Shot Molding: We make overmolding and two-shot injection molding for some handle tools; some of the overmoling is used in the die casting molds as well. Contact us for a quote for your overmolding project.
  4. Insert Molding: Insert molding is similar to overmolding but will be a little different; insert molding normally uses metal parts as substrate, and overmolding uses plastic parts as substrate.
  5. Acrylic injection molding or polycarbonate injection molding: PMMA injection molding and polycarbonate injection molding require special molding equipment. We have over 18 years of experience in making PMMA and polycarbonate injection molding, such as thicker wall clear injection molding parts made by acrylic or polycarbonate
  6. Value-Added Services: In addition to injection molding, die casting, and machining, we offer a range of value-added services, including product silkscreen, painting, anodizing, powder coating, e-coating, assembly, testing, certificate, packaging, and logistics support, streamlining your supply chain and reducing costs.

Partner with Sincere Tech China Mold Maker for your custom injection molding, die casting, and machining needs; we will offer you the best quality and fast lead time. Contact us now to get a quotation on injection molding costs.

General Questions:

Q1. Is injection molding expensive?

The complexity and volume of production determine how much injection molding will cost. Despite its high cost, injection molding proves to be quite economical when large quantities of parts with precise dimensional accuracy are required.

Q2. How much does a plastic injection mold cost?

Injection mold costs range from $300 to $100,000, depending on the type of material, level of mold complexity, production volume, and part design.

Q3: How long to make an injection molding project?

This depends on the part size and design, but the first sample will take around 4-5 weeks. Once you approve the sample, we will start to produce the injection molding parts. The lead time will depend on your quantity of molding parts.

Q4: How can I calculate the cost of an injection mold and injection molding?

It is simple to get those costs for your project; you can send us your 3D drawing (stp or IGS format file), requirements for quality parts, and plastic materials, and then we could send you the price in 24 hours.

custom injection molded parts

Sincere Tech specializes in custom injection-molded parts fabrication technology. Our engineers design and manufacture individual parts with our high-wear engineering-grade plastic materials, self-lubricating, wear-resistive, and maintenance-free plastic injection molded parts. Each material is designed to perform to the particular needs of your intended use application and can adore harsh conditions, such as chemicals, dirt, or heat resistance.

Our fast line service provides injection-molded plastic parts and prototypes in just 2-3 weeks in short leads. Furthermore, our injection molding techniques are perfect for small to extensive prototyping because we employ cutting-edge 3D-printed injection molds. This enables us to design, fabricate, and bring parts to market with minimal turnaround without compromising quality.

Why Choose Us for Your Custom Injection Molding Needs?

We set ourselves apart because our services comprise as;

  • Perfect for Large Order Quantities: Suitable for large orders likely above 1000s pieces of prototypes.
  • Most diminutive or maintenance-free parts with Longer Service Life: Our components provide longer serviceability without requiring maintenance.
  • Rapid turnaround: Up to 70% faster than comparable injection molding methods.
  • Extensive material options: Select from our diverse high-performance materials to meet your specified requirements.

Custom Injection Molding: An Overview

Custom injection molding or injection molding mold parts is a plastic part fabrication process that involves injecting stringent quality material into a mold die or cavity designed specifically for intended applications. This process allows design manufacturers to produce parts in low volumes to bulk. Generally, it’s also known as injection molding of plastics, as this process is carried out in the following manner.

The process starts by forcing molten polymer into a mold designed to match the shape of the desired product. The polymer is then cooled and solidified to form the required part released from the mold. The custom injection-molded parts or products manufacturing process provides flexibility and can be used for medium production for about a few 100s to manufacture 1000s of identical molded components at a large scale. The process is widely favored for its economic production and helps industries like automotive, aerospace, and electronics to fabricate prototypes for functional testing and enhance the aesthetics of intended products or end-use parts.

injection molded parts

Custom Plastic Injection Molding Materials

The types of plastics used in custom injection molding are diverse, with different melting points and peculiar characteristics that can be adjusted to suit a specific application. Here are some commonly employed thermoplastic materials for manufacturing high-quality injection molded parts.

Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS) 

ABS is a widely used thermoplastic material that offers flexibility, low density, and good impact strength. It is unsuitable for applications requiring chemical, electrical, or UV resistance. Because of its strength,

ABS injection molding is widely used in products such as children’s toys, household appliances, and car parts.

Low Density Polyethylene (LDPE) & High Density Polyethylene (HDPE)

These versatile thermoplastics provide high tensile and impact strength and resistance to moisture. HDPE injection molding is used in consumer and industrial products, while LDPE, which is softer, is also used in similar applications. Both materials are appreciated for their high degree of durability and ability to be bent.

Polycarbonate (PC) 

PC is a crystal clear, high-gloss matte, lightweight, and yet strong substitute for glass. It is highly resistant and has high impact and mechanical strength, PC injection molding parts aer good  ideal for use in applications like bulletproof glass.

Polyamide (Nylon) 

Nylon injection molding part is a popular thermoplastic known for its electrical properties, mechanical strength, heat, wear, and chemical resistance. Because of its durability and high functional performance, it is commonly used in the medical and automotive industries for injection molded mold parts.

High Impact Polystyrene (HIPS) 

HIPS is an inexpensive, impact-modified crystalline styrene-rubber copolymer widely used in producing disposable cutlery and toys. It is non-toxic, suitable for use in food-contact applications, and appreciated for its flexibility and low price.

Polypropylene (PP) 

PP injection molding part is a tough plastic with good chemical and stress resistance and high impact strength. Due to its high melting point, it is ideal for use in the food industry, where equipment must be durable and safe for use with food products.

These materials are chosen according to the application’s needs to provide the best performance and long life of custom injection-molded parts.

Tool Design and Engineering

In injection molding, the tool is the mold or die that forms the material into the intended part. It’s in fact a negative cavity that recreates the part’s shape with the correct dimensions to allow for the material to behave as desired during injection and cooling. In the production of custom molded plastic parts, it may be necessary to use one or several tools depending on the need. Although using more tools initially raises the cost a little, it greatly reduces the cost per piece in the long run, making it economical for mass production.

These tools are located in a mold base and are a single component of injection molding machines. Mold bases are costly, so we use insert tooling that can be fitted into existing polymer molding mold bases.

Our real engineers consider the details by analyzing DFM analysis to material, and technique selection when creating custom-molded plastic components, including tool design and process optimization. They incorporate the right manifold and runner systems, molding processes, and functionalities without extraneous features, thus cutting costs on your budget. The high-tech software helps uniformly transition from virtual technical 2D or 3D g-code to m-codes to accurate tooling in the tool room.

Tool Building

Sincere Tech has a functional tool building and mold maintenance department with experienced professional tool makers. By selecting the right steel grade tool to correspond to the particular process, our skilled engineers and manufacturers create and design accurate tools to meet the required standard. We employ CNC machines, precision optical laser engraving machines, laser and tig welders, EDM, heat treating, grinding, polishing, and plating capabilities, which allow us to build and sustain tools for maximum performance.

Lean Molding

Our on-site production unit uses advanced feature machines and presses which offer high-speed production and fast tooling changeovers for every batch. These standard, efficient machines, manufacture millions of molded plastic parts daily with quality, and low cost.

Tool Maintenance

Our value-added customer services ensure rigorous quality for your custom tools during manufacturing. Our mold changeover department cleans and inspects tools regularly after every use, re-plating or repairing them where necessary before storing them for use in the next production cycle.

Benefits of Custom Injection Molded parts

Custom injection molded aprt is a flexible manufacturing process that is suitable for creating intricate parts with small dimensions and strict specifications. It is suitable for high-volume production of identical parts, which makes it an economical solution. It is relatively faster and more effective than other plastic forming techniques such as machining or additive manufacturing. In addition, it has a high degree of design freedom, which means it is possible to shape and produce parts of different shapes, sizes, and colors. Depending on the desired rigidity and ductility of the end product, the materials can be polypropylene and ABS, nylon, and polycarbonate, thus meeting the requirements of a particular application.

plastic injection molding parts

Who Should Use Custom Injection Molded parts

Custom injection molding is the most suitable for companies that want to produce complex parts, whether in large or small quantities. This process benefits industries like the automotive, electronics, and medical sectors, where customized components are required quickly and accurately.

Custom injection molding is a versatile process that can produce intricate detailed parts in a short time frame, ranging from hours to days, depending on the complexity and size of the part. This is particularly useful for creating a prototype and transitioning to mass production in a short turnaround.

In the context of cost, custom injection molding is more advantageous than traditional machining or 3D printing if the part design meets the requirements of injection molding. In addition, the parts produced by injection molding are of better quality and uniform surface finish than those produced by machining.

Customers also benefit from shorter lead times and a wide range of materials, including thermoplastics such as ABS, polypropylene, nylon, and PEEK. This versatility guarantees that the final product is produced to the required standards and performance characteristics.

Our Expanded Customers’ Support Services

Sincere Tech molding holds an ISO 9001:2015 certification, which proves our dedication to quality control and assurance.

Adherence to ISO standards guarantees our services have the best business processes and quality management systems to meet the needs of its customers and provide high levels of satisfaction.

Our quality department utilizes state-of-the-art technology, a four-step inspection system, and Statistical Process Control (SPC) to guarantee compliance throughout the manufacturing process. By using advanced measuring instruments that obtain specific measurement values instead of relying on the naked eye, we guarantee that the dimensions are uniform regardless of the complicated designs to ensure parts meet exact dimensions and specifications. This approach does not only increase efficiency but also allows for more frequent and accurate inspections.

It starts from mold setup to production runs, and our quality assurance process is very strict. The first parts after mold setup are inspected to ensure the product is of the right quality before proceeding with the production process. During production, the machine operators are responsible for the visual inspection of the products and during production, the in-process inspectors conduct the visual, dimensional and functional inspection periodically. The last step before packaging is a visual check to confirm the labels’ quality, quantity, and correctness.

Statistical Process Control (SPC) enables us to control quality by collecting and analyzing statistical data from processes, product measurements, and machines. This approach enables us to improve efficiency, increase productivity, and reduce the likelihood of producing off-standard products and scrap, thus reducing the cost to our customers.

At Dong Guan Sincere Tech, we understand the importance of product quality. Our experienced professional team of engineers is always available to help with certifications and reports such as PPAP, ISIR, FAIR, IMDS, Reach, RoHS, and others.

Our company is one of the leading plastic injection molding companies in China, specializing in custom plastic injection molding and delivering billions of high-quality parts and components to numerous industries. Furthermore, Our facility offers a wide range of injection molding molds, and we are one of the largest family-owned plastic injection molders in the country.

With a wealth of knowledge and experience, our company offers comprehensive capabilities that span from concept to completion: With engineering speciality of knowledge and experience, we offer comprehensive capabilities that span from concept to completion:

Design Expertise: We have a highly experienced design team with over 30 years of experience in the industry. We use the latest technology, such as Solid Works, to design and modify molds. We pay special attention to the specifics of the part’s operation and the conditions necessary for it to work as designed.

Comprehensive Approach: We pride ourselves on taking a comprehensive approach to the manufacturing process, starting with the mold design and ending with the injection molding process. This concept-to-completion approach guarantees the highest quality from the design stage to the final product, incorporating practical and technical knowledge of plastic injection molding.

Toolmaking and Precision Tooling: Creating effective tools is not easy; it takes time, effort, and focus. Our company is dedicated to providing you with precision tooling that will ensure the success of your project. Advantages include a warranty on our tools, high-quality tools that ensure tight tolerances and optimized cycle time, and the ability to mold parts with varying wall thickness and complex geometries. Although we focus on small parts, we can handle up to 10” square sizes.

Injection mold China

We have a state-of-the-art factory with 125 fully automated presses that run seven days a week, 24 hours a day, almost the whole year.

Facility and Equipment: Both presses come equipped with self-diagnostic and microprocessor-controlled functions, and the clamping forces range from 46 to 720 tons and fractional to 107 ounces. We also have a Class 8 cleanroom environment that can be modified to fit different projects depending on the client’s needs. This is especially beneficial for the pharmaceutical, medical, food, and beverage sectors and others requiring high safety measures.

Automation and Inventory Management: Sincere Tech keeps safety stock to meet unexpected client demand. Our real-time inventory tracking helps forecast future requirements, and we have a robust MRP system that monitors jobs from end to end. Our understanding of the properties of the resin, the demand for the part, and the cycle time helps us achieve a 99% customer satisfaction rating.

Choose Sincere Tech Group for Your Next Injection Molding Project

The Sincere Tech is one of top 10 mold manufacturers in China that offers custom plastic injection molding services. Our certifications in ISO 9001:2015 and ISO 13485 ensure the highest quality, and our broad expertise addresses various fields. Our team provides the best solution if you need high-accuracy components or components with small tolerances. Contact us today to learn more about our state-of-the-art plastic injection molding solutions. Get a quote to work on your next custom injection molding project, and let us meet your desired requirements without compromising premier standards.