Injection Molding: A Short Note

Posted by genedumas on May 28th, 2013

Introduction

Injection Molding involves production of parts through a process of injecting material into molds. The material used can be of many types, including metals that usually makes use of thermosetting and thermoplastic polymers. The material being used is heated to a liquid state and then filled in a cast, which cools down to take the shape of the cavity of the mold. The mold is prepared using metal, commonly steel or aluminum, using a toolmaker with precision to match the dimensions of the part being prepared. Injection molding is popular for preparation of a host of products.

The initial investment required for injection molding is high considering the machines required. However, the cost per piece is very low. Therefore, this sort of production is ideal for production of huge volumes of a product.

injection molding is used to prepare a wide variety of products, mostly ones that are unibody, like pen caps, combs, car body parts, mechanical parts like gears and other plastic products. This production technique is ideal for production of large quantities since it is cost efficient.

History

John Wesley Hyatt, the inventor of Celluloid, along with his brother invented the first Injection Molding Machine in 1872. It was fairly simpler than the ones used today. The industry developed gradually, fine-tuning the process to make it more efficient. The 1940’s were the years that the industry expanded rapidly, due to the massive demand for cost-efficient, mass-produced items created by the World War 2. James Watson Hendry, another American inventor, developed the screw injection model that is widely used today.

There are many injection molding companies that have progressed significantly over the years from producing caps and combs to producing complex items for industries like automotive, medical, aviation, toys, packaging etc.

Present

Today, there are many injection molding companies around the world specializing in injection molding ready to cater to specific and unique needs. These companies not only produce and ship the products to you but also provide turnkey services. They help design, test, package and ship the product. It is possible to not only to produce standard products but also unique products to suit your needs.

The cost of production depends upon a number of factors like the material used, complexity of design, number of cavities, expected longevity of the product, longevity of the mold and many others. Design optimisation is key to make the process cost efficient. The companies can help you through this process to finalize a finished product. The companies have qualified skilled staff to help design the products.

Injection Molding has become a standard technique for production of huge volumes of products.