What is precision injection molding?
Precision injection molding is a highly technical process that aims to create precise plastic components with complex geometries for various industrial applications - it is never used to manufacture whole products. The process involves the use of high-precision molds that must be designed and manufactured with the utmost attention. Otherwise, the plastic components might present many burrs that have to be removed, and deburring can often account for a big portion of the manufacturing costs.
Which mold is it used for?
Molds used for precision injection molding require to have some features, among which:
- Number of cavities suitable to realize the component;
- Thickness of the bottom plate, supporting plate, and cavity wall;
- Correct runner size;
- It has to be made preferably in steel alloys with high mechanical strength;
- Engineering design.
How does precision molding work?
The entire precision molding process is automated and is conducted by computer through automation management systems. The process enables smooth and customized production. In addition, it is conducted through various steps that can either perform plastic injection molding, coating, and testing to packaging. The mechanics of the process are totally customizable: from the mold to the mechanical supports to obtaining the semi-finished part. Precision injection molding is utilized in specialized sectors including automotive, pharmaceuticals, information technology, and especially in the production of plastic materials used in medical devices, among other industries.
How to select the suitable materials for your precision injection molding process
Different materials offer different properties. For example, some injection molding materials offer greater dimensional stability than others. Similarly, some provide better label adhesion than others. Material selection considers the following aspects: temperature, pressure, and biological and chemical interactions. Thermoplastic resins can be broadly classified into amorphous and semicrystalline. Semicrystalline thermoplastics offer better chemical and electrical resistance, but their amorphous counterparts are much more dimensionally stable and impact resistant. The choice of material may affect the level of tolerance required or certain characteristics, such as the wall thickness.
The variables that influence this process
Choosing a reliable partner and supplier is even more important in precision injection molding as this process depends on a series of variables - from the accuracy of the molds to thermodynamic control - that influence the final result.
Here are the most common ones:
1. The general quality of molds
Molds for precision injection molding are the result of accurate study, design and testing. We pay attention to a plurality of elements during their manufacturing process such as:
- design engineering
- the mold cavity size, its position and the number of cavities
- precision of parting surface
- choice of materials –we usually use steel alloys or cast iron
- dimensional tolerance
- thickness of the bottom plate
- runner size
All these elements acquire a growing importance as far as we consider dimension tolerances: while the majority of injection molds hold a tolerance of +/- .005″, precision injection molds have tolerances between +/- .002″ and +/- .001″ or even less.
2. Thermodynamic control of the mold
Consistent control of mold temperature is critical: the molds’ water lines balance the loss of heat from the plastic material so as to achieve a specific plastic shrink.
Individual temperature controllers help achieving and maintaining the desired temperature and fighting humidity that creates condensation and a chilling effect on the mold surface when it opens and closes.
3. Plastic material consistency
Physico-chemical characteristics vary depending on the kind of plastic. As a consequence, when designing the molds because this affects the quality and the precision on the injection molding process.
At Idea Stampi we deal with polymers such as polypropylene, pvc, thermoplastic polyurethane, polycarbonate etc.
4. Accuracy of the molding machine
Precision injection molding machines are fundamental to good final results. In fact, high temperatures often affect the viscosity of the oil in the machines thus causing dimensional inconsistencies.
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The industrial sectors that require precision injection molding
Today’s technological developments have dramatically increased the need for plastic parts, components and micro-components with unusual shapes and complex geometries to be used in advanced technical devices.
The most involved industrial sectors are: electronics, automotive, medical devices, optics, household appliances and other.
Precision Molds for Plastic Materials
Idea Stampi specializes in the production of precision molds for plastic materials. Our expertise and experience in precision injection molding allow us to work with a wide range of plastic materials, meeting the diverse needs of our clients.
We work with various plastic materials, including but not limited to:
- PMMA (polymethylmethacrilate)
- PEI (polyetherimide)
- PPS (polyphenylene-sulfide)
- PC (polycarbonate)
- PBT (polybutylene terephthalate)
- PPO (polyphenol oxidase)
- POM (polyoxymethylene)
- ABS (styrene co-polymers)
- PC/ABS
- PC (polycarbonate)
- IXEF (polyarylamide)
- PA 6/ PA 66 (nylon)
- PP (polypropylene)
Our team of experts can guide you in selecting the most suitable material for your specific requirements. Whether you need precision molds for small intricate components or larger parts, Idea Stampi has the expertise to deliver precise and reliable solutions.
The Advantages of High Precision Plastic Injection Molding at Idea Stampi
At Idea Stampi, our commitment to innovation and expertise is evident in our high precision plastic injection molding service. We understand the importance of precision in every aspect of the molding process, ensuring that each component meets the most stringent requirements of our clients.
Our process allows us to produce components with intricate and complex features that would be challenging to achieve with traditional methods. The meticulous attention to detail throughout the manufacturing process guarantees optimal reproducibility and consistency, regardless of the production volume.
We deliver high-quality, uniform, and functionally consistent components efficiently and within the desired timeframe. Our clients can rely on us for the production of parts that meet their exact specifications, contributing to the success of their projects.
With our state-of-the-art facilities, experienced team, and commitment to excellence, we ensure that each component produced through our high precision plastic injection molding process meets the highest standards of quality and precision.
Discover more about high-precision plastic injection molding
The benefits of precision injection molding
Due to the high degree of precision it provides, businesses are looking to use precision injection molding for more technical applications. But that’s not all: they are also enjoying its other various advantages:
- cost effectiveness – the process requires the use of automatic CNC machines that reduce labor cost and increase production efficiency
- efficient production – precision injection molding allows making more parts from a single mold, that is it is faster than other molding methods
- complex designs – also parts with high levels of detail or complex geometries can be produced at high volumes
Idea Stampi services
Idea Stampi has been working with the precision injection molding technique for many years. Our experience in the field has allowed us to specialize in the production of high-precision thermoplastic parts.
We manufacture injection molding for many sectors: from the electric and the medical one to food, personal care and automotive.
