Within the next decade, the plastic injection molding industry is set to reach a value of $266 billion. This value is spread across the various types of plastic molds. It also includes molds used in the automotive, packaging, and medical industries.
But, how are the different types made, and how do people use them for creating parts and products? Well, it starts with gauging demand. The ones that most require them are the electronics and automobile industries, where polypropylene is the most popular form.
Connecting the types of plastic molds to their uses can get quite confusing. If you’re looking for more information about how to use plastic molds, the different types available, and what products they’re for, consider reading ahead.
The Basics
Creating a plastic mold is done via giving a liquid or semi-solid material a specific shape with the help of a rigid frame that changes depending on the desired outcome. Specifically, the process involves mixing powders and liquids together and applying differing amounts of pressure and heat.
These can also vary, as with soft plastic molds, where the required amount of heat and pressure can change drastically.
Types
Considering the high demand from a wide variety of industries, it’s no surprise that there are a plethora of methods to meet each need. However, there are three types that stand out the most. Here’s a quick look at each one.
Rotational Molding
Rotational molding involves a process where liquid or powder sit in a metal mold and spin slowly in an oven where heat and centrifugal force participate to produce an optimal final product. You’ll see rotational molding in products like recycling bins, large containers, and car parts.
Injection Molding
Injection molding involves injecting plastic in a mold and applying immense amounts of pressure. However, the plastic is injected in liquid form into a metal mold, where it cools. This method is a fantastic option for scaling custom projects. Once the metal mold is finalized, all that’s left is to inject the molten plastic.
Compression Molding
Compression molding involves inserting a heated plastic material, be it in liquid or solid form, in a mold for compression. It’s one of a few processes that requires trim molding. This is where, once the mold and material cool, the operator must carefully trim the excess plastic material from the edges.
You’ll find compression molding participates in the miniatures industry, as well as the automotive industry. Both require strong plastics, even though the plastic miniature and toy industries are slowly shifting to other materials.
Plastic Molds are a Flexible Option
Regardless of industry, it’s likely that these can participate in some way. You can even find cases like plastic crown molding, where companies can quickly produce crowns for a room with just a few measurements. As you can likely tell, the material is simplistic in nature and, while there are a plethora of methods available, are a simple way to satisfy all kinds of industrial needs.
Contact us if you’re working on a project, be it big or small, and need some help. We’re more than happy to take on the challenge and guide you form start to finish.
