Molding is a process in which a mold is used to shape liquid or pliable mediums. A good product part is only possible when the mold is created with precision. A good quality mold is a big source of capital investment for companies. Thus, the pressure to design good-quality, precisely detailed mold bases for optimal functioning is high.
Types of Molding
Pipe fitting making machines, High precision injection molding machines or PET Preform injection molding machines are various kinds of plastic molding machines that create industry-specific products based on product type, quantity required and time constraints. A few popular techniques are mentioned below:
Rotational Molding – It is a manufacturing process that involves pouring a powder or liquid resin into a metal mould and spinning it in an oven until the resin covers the inside of the mould. This process is used to produce large hollow plastic parts and products such as storage tanks, recycle bins, utility carts, car parts etc. This is a relatively cost-efficient process.
Injection Molding – Injection moulding is a method of creating custom plastic parts by injecting molten plastic material into a metal mould under high pressure. This process involves producing plastic bottle caps, electric switch boards, surgical tools and other medical necessities.
Blow Molding – It is a process that employs blowing air into heated plastic to form thin-walled, hollow plastic products. Blow molding is a time-efficient method that is relatively cheaper than injection molding. It is used to produce plastic bottles, fuel tanks, plastic drums, water cans etc.
Compression Molding – This process involves pressing heated plastic into a mold to create the desired shape. The demand for this method arises when the requirement is to craft small metal or plastic parts in bulk. The end products are sturdy and durable. It is used to produce mainly automotive parts.
Extrusion Molding – Extrusion molding uses a die and not a mold. The process involves squeezing out heated plastic through a die cast to achieve desired shape. It is a cost-efficient and fast technique that is used to create products like PVC pipes, straws, hoes, plastic decks and gutters.
Thermoforming Molding – Thermoforming includes heating thermoplastic to a flexible temperature, molding into a particular shape and trimming to get the final desired shape. It is used to create products for the food and retail sectors such as disposable cups, trays, lids, fridge lines etc.
Now that you are acquainted with the various forms of available molding techniques, opting for a relevant method to create products of your choice will no more be a tedious process. A particular technique should be chosen only after pre-deciding essential parameters such as product type, quantity, available budget and time frame.
