Since it has been used for so long, plastic injection molding is a standard and adaptable process. It is one of the most adaptable ways to produce products and is frequently used to create all kinds of products, from toys to car parts. You can make fantastic art pieces with the right equipment and knowledge. However, it’s essential to understand that plastic injection molding is not something to be taken lightly. There are safety measures to consider, as well as the costs involved.

Origins

Plastic injection molding is one of the latest innovations in manufacturing. It allows the creation of quality components at a fraction of the cost of other materials. This manufacturing process has become a staple of the modern economy. With many advantages, it has significantly impacted the world of manufacturing.

The history of plastic injection molding dates back to the 19th century. Chemists in the United States and Europe developed the first plastic material. These materials were created to serve as an affordable alternative to rubber.

In the early 1870s, American inventor John Wesley Hyatt created a machine that could produce celluloid. He used cellulose nitrate, camphor, and alcohol to make the material. His goal was to use celluloid to replace ivory in billiard balls. However, the product was sturdy than expected.

Hyatt was asked by the New York Billiards Company to create a more efficient manufacturing method. He thought of putting the celluloid in a mold.

Common Plastics Used

There are a thousand types of plastics used by plastic injection mold makers for injection molding. Choosing suitable materials can help you produce a high quality product that withstands various conditions. Whether designing a product for consumer or industrial applications, selecting the best material is essential.

For example, polypropylene is a durable, affordable, and recyclable thermoplastic. It’s a good choice for injection molding because it melts evenly and has a low melting point. PP can be filled with glass fibers to increase its rigidity and resistance to warping.

Polyethylene (PE) is another common type of plastic suitable for injection molding. The resin has a high strength-to-density ratio and is often used to create food containers and other plastic products.

Another commonly used plastic is polycarbonate. This material has high optical clarity and is lightweight. Unlike glass, it’s not susceptible to ultraviolet degradation.

Safety Measures

There are a variety of safety measures to consider when using plastic injection molding machines. These include guards, mechanical devices, and a few other items. Following safety precautions, as a matter of course, is the most crucial thing to remember.

In addition to ensuring that your workers are safe, you should also ensure that you keep all your machine equipment in good working order. This includes ensuring that any electrical connections are secure, that water leaks are rewashed, and that any chemical spills are cleaned up.

One of the most critical steps is implementing a lockout/Tagout protocol. This is a system to help ensure that your workers’ personal safety is protected in case the machine malfunctions.

Using a face shield is also a bright idea. This protective device is designed to prevent molten plastic from causing burns to your face. However, be careful to ensure that your face shield is made of a material that is thick enough and sits high above your eyebrows.

Cost

Production using plastic injection molding is very economical. However, costs vary depending on the type of product, its application and supplies. These factors can be determined through a detailed analysis. If you are planning to manufacture a plastic part, it is advisable to consider these variables before deciding on your manufacturing strategy.

The initial manufacturing cost is high, mainly when producing a large run. But as the production progresses, the price per unit will decrease.

Molding costs depend on the size and complexity of the mold. You can save money if you choose a mold with fewer cavities. Moreover, the lower the number of cavities, the less pressing time it takes.

The injection molding process also depends on the raw materials and labor costs. In addition, the parts can have different shapes and sizes. Therefore, you need to think about the overall cost of the project.