Injection molding is one of the most popular methods of manufacturing. This is mainly because it is cheap and can be used to make high quantities of products. Its popularity has led to an increase in the number of injection molding machine manufacturers. It has also contributed to the introduction of various types of injection molding materials. For this reason, in this post, we will be discussing choosing between different types of injection molding materials.
Factors to consider when choosing the materials to use in injection molding
There are more than two dozen types of materials used in injection molding manufacturing. This means that you have to choose the best material to use for manufacturing. Below are some factors to consider when doing this;
1. Applications
One of the first things you should consider when choosing the type of material used in injection molding is the application. This refers to the types of materials you want to make using the material.
For instance, if you are looking to manufacture products to be used in the medical industry, you may want to consider polystyrene. This material is popularly used for making surgery and laboratory equipment because it is cost-effective, safe, and easy to mold.
On the other hand, if you want to manufacture materials like electric equipment and vehicle parts, it would help if you got a highly durable material that can withstand a wide range of harsh conditions. The type of application will help determine the type and qualities of the material you choose.
2. Cost
The cost of the materials is also an essential factor to consider. The cost of the materials differs from one type to the next. The cost is often determined by the quality, durability, and type of applications of the material. You can always find cost-effective materials to work within injection molding.
However, you ought to be careful not to select a cheap material that lacks the qualities you are looking for. Most of the time, the cheapest materials are not as durable as the latter. However, you can always find a middle ground. When choosing the best materials based on the cost, it would be best to consider your budget and applications.
3. Durability
The durability of the material is an essential factor to consider. You need a material that can be used to manufacture high-quality and durable products. Note that the level of durability differs from one type of material to the next. When determining the ideal choice of material in terms of durability, you ought to consider its applications.
For instance, a material used to make food containers does not need to feature the same durability level as the one used in making automotive parts. Note that elements like heat resistance, wear, and harsh weather conditions also influence a material’s durability.
Conclusion
The type of materials you choose also depends on the type of injection molding machine you are utilizing. The best types of injection molding materials should feature qualities like; durability, resistance to heat, easy to mold, and resistance to weather elements.
