When an insert is placed into a mold before molten plastic is added, this process is known as insert injection molding. An insert is any material that can tolerate the injection molding process, or the process where melted plastic is injected into a mold cavity and then used in the construction of a mold prototype. Some common examples of inserts include ceramic, metal, and wire materials. In most cases, the inserts used are conductive metals, such as brass, copper, or steel.
How Insert Injection Molding Works:
Step One – Inserts are placed into a mold cavity.
Step Two – Solid pieces of raw material are converted into a liquid state and injected into that same mold cavity.
Step Three – Molten plastic is added to the mold in such a way that it can saturate the mold, including all the small grooves and holes.
Step Four – The mold is cooled, leaving the plastic and insert materials to fuse together tightly.
Ideal Uses for This Type of Molding
Insert injection molding is ideal for companies that have product designs that involve plastic encapsulating another material, particularly a metal or another type of plastic. For instance, many medical companies have started using this type of injection molding as a means to produce all sorts of medical devices, including hypodermic needles.
Common Products Made from Insert Injection Molding
• Computer cables
• Electric plugs
• Hypodermic Needles
• Keyboard caps
• Threaded fasteners
Advantages to Using This Type of Injection Molding
Due to budget constraints and economical issues, many companies have welcomed insert injection molding with open arms. This particular type of molding reduces the cost of assembly and labor. At the same time, it opens the door for increased flexibility for the design process of products. The end result leaves companies with strong, reliable yet cost-effective products for their stores, warehouses, etc. |
