The most popular method for plastic molding is injection molding, which is used to make a wide range of intricate parts in various sizes and shapes. Injection molding is effective and affordable, especially when producing large quantities of parts.
The largest portion of upfront production expenditures is spent on injection molds. Your injection molder ought to be able to give you a quote that details the
prices for any custom injection molding project. The unpleasant process of soliciting estimates for each project falls to purchasing and procurement managers. The quotes can differ significantly depending on the input (in terms of drawings, prototypes, or sample parts).
Molds that have more cavities, tighter tolerances, and a longer production life require longer to construct and cost more upfront. A high-quality mold offers long-term savings. These molds are easier to maintain and endure longer than molds of lower grade.
The following are the top six queries you should be able to offer preliminary responses to:
1. Do the part(s) to be quoted have CAD drawings, prints, or samples?
The molder needs to know what you are asking them to make in order to start formulating an appropriate quote. Dimensional drawings in great detail give dimension information. Dimensional drawings in great detail reveal the part's dimensions and degree of complexity. The molder can start making decisions about how to optimize the design for manufacture with the aid of a sample or prototype.
2. Are the components being produced from an existing mold?
If so, it would be up to the molder to choose whether or not they could produce your parts from the current mold. We strive for a mold that can operate automatically, unattended, and that is constructed of high-quality steel. We will definitely take into consideration whether we can operate the mold in the manner in which it was created and constructed.
3. What is the application of the part? Environmental, chemical concerns, assembly ?
The injection molder with whom you are collaborating must comprehend the part's intended purpose. The maker will be able to estimate how durable the component must be and how much wear and tear there will be over time with the aid of this explanation. Your molder will be able to recommend the resins and/or additives needed for your project with the help of the information you provide.
4. How many of each are required?
Not all injection molds are created equally. An aluminum mold can be the perfect choice if you're interested in producing items in lower quantities or with a shorter run. A hardened stainless steel mold would be the finest option if your project calls for huge volumes over an extended period of time. The latter method is more expensive up front, but over the course of the tool's life, it pays for itself. Stratus Plastics, a high-volume, precision molder, specializes in creating tools from steel that has been hardened.
5. How big and complicated is the part?
Components made of plastic injection molded
While injection molding is a common method for producing plastic parts, other molding techniques can also be utilized to create a part. Compression molding or injection molding can be used to create larger items. Rotational molding is best for large pieces, whereas blow molding is best for hollow objects like bottles.
6. What kinds of resins or polymers are necessary for the part?
You could need to conduct some preliminary research, but having a grasp of the kind of plastic material you believe is most appropriate for your project gives the molder a place of departure. A skilled molder will ultimately suggest the resin and additives they believe will produce the finest outcome.
You should be well on your way to collaborating with a manufacturer who can help advance your project by responding to these six questions.
Stratus Plastics has been creating premium components for a variety of applications using the turnkey production concepts since 2005