What is injection molding?

 Plastic injection molding is the process of melting plastic pellets (thermoset/thermoplastic polymers) and, once sufficiently ductile, injecting them under pressure into the mold cavity, filling and curing them to produce the final product.

How does plastic injection molding work?

Protolabs' thermoplastic injection molding process is the standard process involving aluminum molds. Aluminum transfers heat more efficiently than steel, so no cooling channels are needed - which means the cooling time we save can be used to monitor filling pressures, cosmetic issues and produce quality parts.

 

Resin pellets are loaded into a barrel and will eventually be melted, compressed and injected into the mold's runner system. The hot resin is injected into the mold cavity through a gate and the part is then molded. Ejector pins help remove the part from the mold, and the part then falls into the loading bin. After the run is complete, the part (or initial sample run) is boxed and shipped shortly thereafter. Request your free design cube, which shows surface finish and thick and thin finishes.

 

Protolabs offers plug-ins

When specified for IM production, we can provide threaded brass part inserts. For our customers, this means no additional purchasing, liaising with suppliers and arranging delivery of the required number of inserts. It eliminates the risk of delays from other suppliers. In addition, if additional inserts are required in the event of a quality failure or scrap, we will take care of that as well.

 

Ultimately, our goal is to provide a simple and efficient insertion service to complete your IM orders. Supplying from our own comprehensive in-house inventory means you can focus on your project.

 

GoodTech is a leading plastic injection molding manufacturer and plastic injection mold maker in China. GoodTech provides customers with custom plastic injection molding services, insert molding, over-molding, and true 2 color molding depends on the part structure and requirements.