Contrary to popular belief, the Ford Model T was not the first automobile. It was the first American automobile and succeeded Wilhelm Maybach’s Mercedes, which came out in Europe in 1901. In the century since its invention, automobile manufacturing has come a long way.
For ages, automobile makers relied on metal stamping for parts. But, the advent of plastic injection molded parts revolutionized the industry. Now, manufacturers can make durable, lighter, customized vehicle parts that increase driving efficiency.
But the real draw of plastic injection molding is the financial benefits. Auto manufacturers who switch to plastic reduce production costs without sacrificing quality. Read on to learn more about the financial benefits of molded parts.
What Is Plastic Injection Molding?
Plastic injection molding is the standard process used to create plastic parts for various industries. The process begins with molten plastic material. Machinists inject the material into a mold cavity and allow it to cool.
Once cooled, the plastic hardens into the desired shape. Some common automotive parts made in this process are:
- Decorative components like knobs and trims
- Steering wheels
- Seats
- Storage systems (like glove box components)
- Exterior panels
- Door systems and locks
Like metal stamping before, plastic injection is customizable. So, there’s no limit to what you can create. Unlike metal stamping, plastic injection is quick, efficient, and minimizes time and material waste.
Why Plastic Injection Molding Is the New Standard for Custom Automotive Parts
Plastic injection molding is becoming the new standard for custom automotive parts. It provides various benefits to auto manufacturers and customers that outweigh metal stamping.
Plastic injection molded parts are efficient because it takes less time to make them. In comparison, metal stamping takes longer because it has more steps and uses more resources.
Plus, plastic injection molding results in solid parts comparable to metal. So, consumers get all the benefits of metal’s durability at a fraction of the cost.
Finally, plastic molding is a swift manufacturing process. It produces parts in record time. So, automakers can make more quality parts faster and at a lower cost.
The Financial Benefits of Choosing Plastic Injection Molded Parts
Plastic injection molding’s most significant benefit is monetary. There are three primary ways the auto industry saves money by choosing plastic parts. These are resources, manufacturing, and time.
Reduced Resource Costs
Automakers generally use thermoplastics like sheet molding compounds (SMC) to make parts. These types of plastics are more expensive than most plastic materials. Yet, by weight, they cost less than aluminum.
Reduced Manufacturing Costs
Custom metal stamping has more manufacturing costs than plastic parts. It takes more steps to achieve the desired results, from research and development to production. So, automakers save money on manufacturing when switching to plastic molded parts.
Production Time Saving
With fewer steps and a shortened production time, plastic injection helps save and make businesses more money. You have more inventory to sell when you make more parts for less money. You can also offer lower-cost products, making your company more enticing for buyers.
By combining efficiency and quality, plastic injection increases your growth potential. It streamlines your production line without losing quality, allowing you to reap all the financial benefits.
Commission Custom Plastic Molded Parts Today
Plastic injection molded parts are lighter, more durable, and less expensive than their metal counterparts. These financial benefits offer endless possibilities for automakers. If you’re ready to make the metal-to-plastic switch, Nova Stevensville can help.
We offer custom plastic molded parts to customers nationwide. No project is too big or small. As long as it’s plastic, we’ve got you covered.
Whether you need a few hundred or a few million parts, Nova Stevensville has the resources for your project. Visit our website today to request a free quote.
