Advantages And Disadvantages Of Injection Molding

Injection molding retains innumerable applications in a broad range of industries, including the medical industry, automotive industry, telecommunication field, consumer electronics, transportation industry, etc. In 2022, the size of the international injection molding market was USD 273.2 billion. In addition, it is estimated to reach USD 397.6 billion by 2030. 

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Injection molding allows broad material selection, produces complex shapes easily, ensures quick production, assures high repeatability, and produces little to no waste. 

Due to the various benefits of injection molding, this manufacturing process is highly used by reliable injection molding manufacturers. 

What Is Injection Molding

 Injection Mold Milling 

Injection molding is an old manufacturing procedure for creating parts by infiltrating molten substances into a mold. Materials like polymers and synthetic resins are heated until they are melted, then they are transferred to a mold, where they are chilled to take on the desired shape. This method is known as injection molding because it resembles the procedure of injecting fluids with a syringe. With injection molding, a wide variety of parts, even those with intricate shapes, can be produced swiftly and continuously in significant quantities.

To start the medical device injection molding process, resin pellets are loaded into the hopper, which is the material entry point. In order to prepare the pellets for injection, they are subsequently heated and melted in the cylinder. The substance is then driven through the injection unit’s nozzle before it is pushed into the mold cavity via branching runners and a passage in the mold known as sprue. The mold opens, and the molded object is expelled from it when the material has cooled and hardened. The sprue and runner are removed from the molded item to complete it.

Advantages Of Injection Molding

Source: Depositphotos

Below are the primary advantages of the injection molding procedure, which explains why many medical plastic manufacturers are choosing this procedure for manufacturing plastic parts for different applications. 

• Wide Material Selection

Based on the qualities the final product should have, one can choose from a wide variety of plastic materials. Even including fillers in the molding substance will increase the finished part’s strength. Currently, thermoplastics, thermosets, resins, and silicones are only a few of the approximately 25,000 engineered substances that can be used in injection molding.

One can choose the material that has the ideal combination of mechanical, chemical, and physical attributes. Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene, polystyrene, polyethylene, and polypropylene are examples of materials that are frequently utilized. To create a part with high strength, impact resistance, or stiffness, it is also possible to combine different materials.

• Highly Efficient And Short Lead Time

Though 3D printing or CNC machining one part needs many minutes or hours, most injection molding processes last about 10 to 60 seconds. Even the parts with intricate geometry need 120 seconds or less to form. It is possible to combine numerous smaller components in a single larger mold. 

One can produce hundreds of similar components each hour at a reasonable cost. In addition, it assists in maximizing productivity and making the most of every mold. Utilizing a multi-cavity or family mold, which produces many pieces from a single press, might occasionally help in enhancing output.

• Produces Complicated Geometries With High Tolerances

Massive quantities of complex, even pieces can be produced via injection molding. To facilitate ejection and produce exact parts, one must check the weld lines, vent and gate placements, corner transitions, rib and boss design, wall thickness, and other things.

The plastic molding companies can attain repeatable part tolerances of ± 0.500 mm (0.020″) with injection molding. Some applications even allow for the production of parts with tolerances as low as ± 0.125 mm (0.005″), making them as exact as 3D-printed or CNC-machined parts and suitable for the majority of applications.

• Reliable Repeatability

After the mold is made, it is simple to produce hundreds of components before tooling needs to be maintained. A full-scale plastic production mold can survive for over 100,000 cycles. In addition to that, as each item is made using the same mold during injection molding, the products will be similar.

• Affordable Price Per Part

The plastic injection molding tool requires a large initial investment, but after that, the expense per item is relatively inexpensive. The cost per part for massive volume production is quite cheap. One can reduce expenses by employing a custom plastic injection molder, even for modest volumes, such as those between 10,000 and 25,000 components. 

• Less Labor Costs

The majority of the phases in the highly automated process of injection molding are carried out by a machine. It is run by an operator with little assistance from physical labor, which is why it lowers the expense of production.

• Little To No Waste And Can Be Reused

In comparison to numerous other production processes, injection molding in clean room generates very little amount of waste. Even if there is any leftover or trash plastic, it can be recycled and used again. The material can be reground and utilized again, even with the runners, sprues, and remaining pieces of plastic. 

Disadvantages Of Injection Molding

The following are the top disadvantages of injection molding because of which a few manufacturers are in dilemma of whether to use this procedure or not. 

• Initial Costs Are Very High

As each injection molded part requires customized tooling, there are substantial initial start-up expenses, making low-volume production very expensive. Tooling for a simple design and a tiny production can range in price from $2,000 to $5,000. In contrast, the price for creating large, complex molds for large-scale production will be more costly than that amount.

• Costly And Hard To Make Design Changes

Any modification to the part’s shape and size necessitates altering the mold cavity’s dimensions. If the part’s size is to be enlarged, a section of the cavity needs to be removed to make room for more molten plastic. Tooling must be created utilizing metal fabrication techniques because it is created with strong metal. In addition, to decrease the part size, another tool with tiny cavities is needed for medical molding companies to produce the parts. 

• Starting Lead Time Is High

From product development to manufacturing the part, it may take months of design, testing, and tool manufacture. An industrial 3D printed product typically includes a lead time of 3 to 5 days, and a CNC machined part can be delivered in between 5 to 10 days. Nonetheless, the lead time for injection molding is very long. Making tools often need about 5 to 7 weeks, while making and shipping parts usually needs another 2 to 4 weeks. 

• Design Restrictions

A few design components will need to be taken into account. For instance, one such design element is to use draught and radii to aid in the ejection of the pieces. Other ones include limiting wall thicknesses and deterring undercuts and sharp edges. If aesthetics are important, one should also think about where to place the ejectors, gates, cooling lines, etc. 

Find A Reliable Injection Molding Company

Make sure to contact SeaskyMedical for molding injection molded parts for various industrial applications.Make sure to contact SeaskyMedical to injection mold plastic parts for various industrial applications. SeaskyMedical also offers custom injection molding services for manufacturing many types of products. 

SeaskyMedical is a 10+year experienced injection molding manufacturer based in China with enough domestic and international product demand. Being an ISO-certified company, SeaskyMedical is equipped with the latest cutting-edge injection molding machines, ISO 8 cleanroom, and advanced molding technology techniques. 

Tips for Choosing a Reliable China Injection Molding Supplier

What Is Injection Molding

An injection molding process involves the injection of molten material into a steel injection mold and then allowing the material to cool, resulting in a solid shape and then ejected by an ejection system . It is possible to manufacture a wide range of objects via injection molding, including automobile parts, toys, and medical devices.

StepDescriptionMeltingThe heated barrel and rotating screw are fed with material from the hopper. The material is melted through heat, friction, and shear force caused by the screw’s rotation. It is then forced through a check valve to the front.InjectionThe screw is pushed forward by a hydraulic ram, moving it from the back end to the front. This action pushes the melted material forward for injection.CoolingThe mold tool remains closed, allowing the injected plastic to cool and harden in the cavity. This stage typically takes the longest duration in the injection molding process.EjectionThe screw is moved backward to prepare for the next molding cycle. The mold tool opens, and the hardened plastic part is ejected. The tool then closes, and the injection molding process repeats from step 1.

Material, usually metal or plastic, is melted inside the barrel at the beginning of the process. A high pressure injection is then used to inject the molten material into the mold via sprue,ruuner and gate. It is opened and ejected from the mold when the matter has cooled and solidified enough. The process of injection molding can be used to produce mass quantities of objects quickly and at a reasonable cost.

An overview of injection molding history

A history of injection molding can be traced back to the 1800s. Alexander Parkes invented a method for molding cellulose into objects in 1851, marking the beginning of injection molding. The first plastic injection molding machine was patented by John Wesley Hyatt in 1872.

As a result of this machine, plastic objects could be mass produced in large quantities in a short time. With the advent of mass-production of plastic products in the early 1900s, injection molding became increasingly popular. Medical devices, automotive parts, and electronics are among the types of products injection molded today.

injection molding machine

Reliable China injection molding Suppliers: Why You Should Choose Them

It is important to select a reliable China injection molding supplier when you are facing so many suppliers. The importance of this can be attributed to a number of factors- the financial position of the China injection molding supplier, their experience in the industry and their reputation. In 2021, the demand for injection molding products in China reached 25.77 million tons- an increase of 1.470 million tons from 2020, an increase of 6.0% year-on-year, and the demand for injection molding products in China is expected to reach 26.91 million tons in 2022

Some quality factors to consider when selecting a reliable China injection molding supplier- whether or not they have a factory, what type of quality assurance system they require and how many employees they have.

You may not be able to obtain high quality injection molding parts if your supplier is not reliable and your customers may become unhappy as a result and sales may be lost. With a reliable and flexible China injection molding supplier, you can win over customers who may be apprehensive about purchasing injection molding parts.

It is also possible that an unreliable injection molding supplier will not be able to deliver your products on time, which could result in sales being lost.The time it takes for the recipient to receive the order.You should ask the plastics supplier about their average time for delivery.

The third disadvantage is that you will have difficulty obtaining after service assistance from an unreliable supplier if there is a problem with your order.

There are a lot of risks involved in purchasing goods without any protection. You might not receive the item you ordered and the supplier might refuse to give you a refund. If this happens, then it will be hard to find someone who can help you get out of the situation.

Last but not least, working with a reliable injection molding supplier is generally more convenient- you will typically receive better customer service from them. They’ll take into consideration any requests you may have and give the same weight as any other business. they might even be able to secure you a refund in certain circumstances if their error caused you a problem.

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Topworks can optimize your design for cost savings or ensure compatibility by optimizing your design before tooling. Clients are welcome to supply 3D files

Topworks can utilize Computer Numerical Control (CNC) to produce a machined prototype or 3D printing that you can see and feel to validate the design of your part.Also we supply vaccum casting service

During this stage, your Tooling Information Worksheet is used to design the tool.

The accuracy of the tool design is validated.

The tool is precisely fabricated according to the validated design using Computer Numerical Control (CNC), and Electrical Discharge Machining (EDM) …

The first test shots will be sent via courier soon after the injection molds are made. Once sent, these usually arrive in 2-5 days.

At this point, Topworks makes any changes to the tool that is necessary to bring it into compliance with the approved specifications. Topworks makes any changes that are necessary (specifically excluding design changes, which are always charged for) free of charge.
In this stage, the texturing process is done, which is usually the last step before mass production.
Topworks side

In this stage, the tool is handed over to the customer or ready for injection molding.

Finding a potential injection molding supplier in China: How To Do It

Research is crucial when looking for mold manufacturers in China . It is possible to research potential plastic molding suppliers in a few different ways, and each has its own advantages and disadvantages.

Searching online – alibaba.com, made-in-china.com and globalsource.com – for potential suppliers is one method of researching potential suppliers. By doing so, you will gain a better understanding of what products or services a supplier offers, as well as their pricing. Nevertheless, keep in mind that not all information found on the internet is reliable, and it is important to do your research before making any decisions. Also you could find many suppliers via google.com and bing.com. In addition, you can also search for Chinese suppliers on social media platforms- facebook.com,linkedin.com, Instagram.com,pinterest… -many suppliers have their own social media accounts, and you can search for relevant keywords on these platforms to find suppliers of interest and make contact.

It is also advisable to speak with other businesses who have used potential suppliers in the past to conduct further research. The purpose of this is to provide first-hand information about the quality of the company’s products or services, as well as the level of customer service they provide. It is an absolutley useful way to avoid fraud suppliers

You could also attend a trade show– Aisamold and Chinaplas . There are many trade shows that feature Chinese injection molding suppliers. This is a great way to meet potential suppliers and learn about their products face to face.

Another method you can use to find a China plastic injection supplier is to contact a sourcing agent. Sourcing agents are companies that help businesses find suppliers in China. They have experience working with Chinese injection molding suppliers and can help you find the right supplier for your needs.

Get quotations from multiple Chin injection molding suppliers

If you’re looking for an injection molding supplier in China, it can be difficult to find the best one: with so many different companies competing for your business, it can be hard to find the best price and quality.

To make sure you’re getting the best deal available, it’s important to take a few minutes to read through the supplier’s website and compare prices between them.This is where Blueprints can help.

Asking Your potential China injection molding suppliers the right questions

If you have any questions or concerns about the product or service being provided, it is important to speak with your China injection molding supplier , especially if the supplier is based in China.

By doing so, you can get answers to any of your questions and ensure that your purchase is in good condition. It is also important to be aware of any potential problems that may arise. If you have any questions about the injection molded product or service, it is best to reach out to the supplier.

In order to enter into an agreement with a Chinese supplier, the following 4 questions should be asked:

1. How long has your company been in plastics business? As a result, you will be able to gain a better understanding of the company’s experience and how long it has been in injection molding and tooling business. The company’s website should provide a list of services or products they offer, as well as some examples of customers who have purchased these items.You should also pay attention to the lists: whether they focus on international or domestic operations, how long their business has been in operation, the size of their workforce and where they are located.
2. How would you describe your main plastic products and services? In order to determine whether the company is a good fit for your needs, you should know what it specializes in, and how it operates .You should also be aware of how long the company has been in business, as this can indicate whether it is trustworthy or not.
3. Are there any references you can provide? By speaking with references, you can gain an initial understanding of both the quality of the injection molded products and services offered by the company. In addition, you can gain an understanding of their level of customer service. and their ability to meet deadlines.
4. What is the minimum order quantity (MOQ) for your products?Minimum Order Quantity, or MOQ, is a set number of injection molded units that must be ordered for a certain product to be made in one batch. This often prevents companies from taking on small orders and can lead to high costs per unit. Despite this, there are some benefits of MOQs, including the added security of having enough inventory to last an extended period of time.

A supplier contract should include the following features

It is important to look for certain key elements when entering into a supplier contract to ensure that your company is protected. You should be aware of the following:

1. Contract scope – The supplier’s scope of work should be clearly defined in the contract. As a result, there will be no misunderstandings in the future. There are a number of different types of contracts. The contract should have the following elements: the name of the parties, the time period for which it will cover, the subject matter of the work to be performed, and-its scope.
2. Pricing – Ensure that the contract clearly states the pricing to avoid surprises down the road. Price term (Incoterms) includes: FOB (Free on Board), CIF (Cost, Insurance, and Freight), CFR (Cost and Freight), CPT (Carriage Paid To), DDP (Delivered Duty Paid).
3. Terms of payment – Before signing any contract, make sure you understand the terms of payment. Getting stuck with unexpected costs is not something you want to happen.Be sure that you know what your supplier is asking for when it comes to payment. You should be prepared to pay upfront or in installments. Normally for injection mold: 30% down payment, 30% after cutting and 40% after samples approval.
4. Delivery schedule – Make sure that you and the injection molding supplier are on the same page when it comes to delivery schedules-normally for tooling,6-8 weeks. By doing this, you will be able to avoid any delays in receiving your goods or services. As mentioned earlier, it is essential to understand the risks involved with injection molding and make sure that you are prepared. If you want to lower your risk of experiencing a delay in production or a poor quality product, then it is important for you and the company that will be handling your injection into have an agreement in place.

Tips for building a good relationship with your China supplier

It is essential to build a good relationship with a Chinese injection molding supplier to ensure a successful partnership. Getting started can be easy if you follow these tips:

• Make sure you are clear about your injection parts expectations and needs. It is essential that your supplier understands the specifications and requirements of your product. Contact your supplier and get in touch with their technical team as soon as possible,and this will give you the opportunity to provide your requirements and specifications for injection parts so that you can move forward with ordering.
• Ensure that you communicate regularly. You and your supplier will be able to build trust if you maintain open communication. .Proactively contact your supplier and talk about any issues that you are having with their service or product. For example, if you are experiencing strange delays in your deliveries, ask them how they can fix the problem.
• Respond to their inquiries and requests in a timely manner. Make sure to respond promptly to your China supplier’s questions or clarifications for plastic mold.
• Keep track of your invoices and pay them on time. This will demonstrate your reliability and trustworthiness to your supplier, as well as help you maintain a good working relationship. Many Chinese injection molding suppliers are financially strained.
• It is important to provide both positive and negative feedback. Providing both positive and negative feedback is important for both the buyers and the suppliers. It allows for a clear understanding of what needs to be improved, and it also ensures that everyone is on the same page. Giving feedback in a constructive way also makes suppliers feel more appreciated, which can lead to better performance.
• Respect and understanding are essential when dealing with cultural differences. A lack of respect can lead to misunderstandings and can even cause tension. It is important to be aware of the different cultural customs and norms when interacting with people from other cultures. It is also important to be patient when learning about the customs of others. When communicating with people from other cultures, it is important to use proper grammar, vocabulary, and idioms. If you are able to show respect for the cultural values of others, you will be able to build a strong relationship that can help facilitate better communication.

With these tips, you can build a good working relationship with your supplier that benefits both of you.

Visiting the China Supplier’s Factory

Before placing an order to a new China injection molding supplier, it’s always a good idea to visit their factory. This will give you the opportunity to see the injection molding manufacturing process and meet the people who will be making your products.

It’s also a chance to make sure that the factory is up to your standards in terms of cleanliness, safety, and working conditions.

When you visit a China plastic injection molding supplier’s factory, there are a few things you should keep in mind.

When planning your visit to a factory, it is important to consider when the business is open-most. Many Chinese injection molding suppliers also work on Saturdays, which is one of the secrets of their ability to make money. During business hours, you will be able to see the factory in action and get a better understanding of how the products are made. Make sure to schedule your visit for during these times so that you can maximize your experience.

• If you’re not happy with the price or delivery time offered by a supplier, don’t be afraid to counter-offer. Many Chinese suppliers already leave room for counter-offer on their first offer.
• Make sure to be clear about what you are looking for, and be prepared to walk away from a deal if you don’t think it’s fair.
• Be persistent, but don’t overstep your boundaries; remember that your China injection molding supplier is also trying to make a profit. Do a fair deal.

When visiting a supplier’s factory in China, be sure to schedule plenty of time to tour the facility and meet with key personnel. Be prepared for a language barrier, as most workers will not speak English.

While on the tour,

• Pay close attention to the cleanliness of the injection molding factory and whether or not safety precautions are being followed.
• Pay attention to the availability of a relaxed working environment.
• Ask questions about the molded production process and get a feel for how organized and efficient the operation is.
• Finally, be sure to inspect the plastic products that are being produced to ensure they meet your quality standards.

By taking these steps, you can get a good sense of whether or not a particular supplier is right for your company.

Conclusion: The Importance of Choosing a Reliable China Injection Molding Supplier

As the world increasingly turns to China for injection molding manufacturing needs, it is more important than ever to choose a reliable supplier. This is especially true when it comes to injection molding, as the process is complex and requires precision. There are many factors to consider when choosing a supplier, such as cost, quality, and delivery time.

It is important to do your research and ask for recommendations when choosing a supplier. You should also visit the facility and meet with the team to get a better understanding of their capabilities. Once you have found a supplier that you trust, it is important to build a good relationship with them. This will ensure that you can count on them for all your future needs.

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