Plastic Injection Molding Design: Factors To Consider

Don’t use more materials, time, and money for molding than you need to. In order to use each of these things wisely, consider these factors for plastic injection molding design. From the material and critical tolerance to the sink markings, plan accordingly so you can have a successful design.

Material

Ensure that all parties involved in the creative process agree upon the material of choice. Additionally, verify that all molders agree with specified resins, part requirements, and overall plastic injection molding services. Keep in mind that some molders offer discounts if you make purchases in bulk. In turn, you can pass along these discounts to customers. Purchasing in bulk could save you thousands of dollars, depending on the size of your purchase. You can save yourself time and money in the long run.

Critical Tolerance

It’s crucial that you provide enough clearance for tolerance variation in your injection mold design. Materials, process control, and tool design all affect tolerance variation. Every mold and its tolerance ranges will be different from one another. It’s imperative that everyone involved in the design process discusses tolerance specifications. Some designs may ask for more or less tolerance than others. Communicate and prepare accordingly.

Sink Markings

Sink mark challenges come with the territory of injection mold parts. Molders may be reluctant to confirm that a cosmetic surface will be free of sink marks. Most professionals recommend wall thickness to be 50 to 60 percent of the perpendicular face wall. You can add rib heights on the opposite side to help prevent these markings. However, collaborate and decide on rib heights or other features that can help to prevent infamous sink markings.

A successful design can be rewarding. Consider these factors for plastic injection molding design so that you can have this success yourself. Collaborate well with others so that you properly prepare to choose material, critical tolerance, and sink markings. Don’t waste your material, time, and money by neglecting this crucial process.