What Is Injection Molding?

Injection molding, coupled with in mold decoration, is the process of manufacturing different products out of thermoplastics. Injection molding produces different kinds of items like metals, elastomers, and glasses. The process is done by heating the materials in a barrel and subjected to a mold cavity. The mixture will eventually cool and harden, producing a material that is strong and durable. The whole process is done by an industrial designer or an engineer, and has to be intrinsically designed to achieve desired shape and features.

Practical Applications

Many products are produced through injection molding. Wire spools, bottle caps, and even musical instruments are made with this process. The products made from injection molding can resist tolerances, thus, are ideal to produce items with high production rates. Other items created through this process include chairs, tables and cabinets, mechanical and automotive parts, and plastic products. This process has become a popular method in producing a wide variety of items.

The Process Defined

In the process of injection molding, the product is initially designed and reviewed to achieve a proper function. The client can choose different materials, depending on the type of items to be produced. These materials are Nylon, PPO, TPU, PMMA, HIPS, and many others. Once the client approves the design, it will then be processed until the final packaging.

There is also a process called the post injection. In this step, the final product is subjected to different applications to enhance its over-all appeal. One of the recognized names in this process, the KEE Group USA, has several post injection methods, such as the following:

• Chrome Plating
• PVD plating
• Spray painting
• Silkscreen printing
• Pad printing
• Color filling
• Hot stamping
• UV texturing
• Laser engraving
• Conductive coating
• Product assembly
• Mechanical component Integration

Cost of Injection Molding

The cost of injection molding varies according to the type of design, the materials used, and the number of items to be produced. The initial cost will require a great investment, but the per-piece cost is relatively low. To know the cost, it is good to seek the advice of an industrial engineer or consult with the manufacturers. To know more about the specifics of in mold decorations, visit http://www.keegroupusa.com/in-mold-decoration.html.