Plastic Molding Methods For Your Manufacturing Business
When it comes to fabrication of plastic components, it's important that you understand the keys to choosing the right fabrication method. There are a variety of manufacturing approaches that can be used, and the right one for your situation can depend on a lot of different things. Here is a look at some of the things that you should think about as you're evaluating your options for your new plastic manufacturing system.
What Kinds Of Things Can Affect Your Manufacturing Choice?
There are a number of things that you'll have to think about when you're trying to choose the right manufacturing approach for your plastic parts.
For example, one of the most important things you should consider is the volume of the parts you'll need. If you're not in the market for a large volume of parts, you may not be able to financially justify the investment in a process like injection molding. However, if you're going to need a steady, high-volume supply, it may be in your best interest to invest in an injection molding system for fast, flawless production.
You'll also need to think about the geometric shapes that you're dealing with. When you understand the different types of plastic manufacturing, you'll be able to choose the best possible method to suit your company's needs.
What Are The Options For Your Plastic Manufacturing Process?
There are several different methods that can be used for manufacturing your plastic products. Understanding each of them is the first step in making the selection, and you can also talk with a manufacturer who specializes in plastic molding equipment.
Blown Plastic Molding: Blown plastic is the method used to form products that need to have a cavity in them. For example, bottles, balls, and similar objects that have any kind of open space in the form are all candidates for blown molding. Usually, they're crafted with the use of a mold that also relies on air injection to create the space.
Vacuum Molding: The vacuum molding process starts with a solid sheet of plastic. The plastic is heated to make it pliable, then it's treated with a vacuum that pulls it into the desired shape. Once the plastic is formed into the shape of the product, it's rapidly cooled so that it holds that shape. This is the common option used for blister packaging, trays, clam-shell packages, and even large things like plastic storage pallets and appliance pieces.
Injection Molding: Injection molding is a precise fabrication method that starts with melted plastic. The melted plastic is processed through an injection machine where it's driven through a set of injectors that fill a mold. It's used for items that are solid or have no internal cavity. The process is ideal when you need consistency in the wall thickness and the final product.
Rotational Plastic Molding: This process is used to create large pieces that require an internal void. For example, boat hulls, oil tanks, and similar large products are often crafted through rotational molding. This method uses a large mold that's hollow. It's heated, then plastic is put into the mold. The mold is then rotated consistently to distribute the plastic evenly until all of the walls are the same thickness and the shape is completed.
As you can see, there are many different methods that can be used to create plastic shapes. Understanding them and working with a specialist will ensure that you get the manufacturing equipment that you need for your products. Whether injection molding is the right thing for your shop or you need something else, the investment in the right equipment will ensure that you get the finished product that's the best fit for your business. Work with companies like Accurate Products Inc. if you have more questions.
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