All too often in manufacturing, one process is assumed to be the only “correct” choice for a solution, discounting all other methods. These assumptions snowball over time into “conventional wisdom,” and become the only accepted way of doing things — even as other processes may end up being more suitable for specific scenarios. The broad array of manufacturing processes available — and advances in efficiency and the technology that supports core manufacturing processes — means that it’s well worth taking so-called conventional wisdom with a grain of salt when considering which method is best for a specific project. Depending on the particular requirements of a job, the “best” solution may end up being a surprise. Plastic injection molding is one such method that can often be overlooked for many types of projects where conventional machining is widely assumed to be the No. 1 choice. In fact, injection molding can often…

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Injection molding offers an extremely versatile range of manufacturing options, as the nature of the process means that it’s suitable for a host of part and product designs and types. Beyond the standard injection molding process, even more versatility and efficiency can be achieved via two-component injection molding. As the name suggests, two-component injection molding involves using more than one material in the molding of one part. This differs from the more typical single-component injection molding process, where only one base resin is injected into a mold. Two-component injection molding can be achieved in several ways, with each method yielding different results and effects. Below, we’ll take a look at each: Mixed materials: In what might be considered the simplest form of two-component injection molding, two materials can be fed into the injection molding machine simultaneously and mixed as they are heated. This method could be used for aesthetic purposes….

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Injection molding cycle time is one of the biggest factors in the efficiency of your molding process, and, by extension, a major factor in the cost and bottom line implications of any injection molding project you tackle. In short, the faster your cycle time (while, critically, maintaining an acceptable level of quality), the more parts you’re able to produce with less machine time, and the lower your overall costs. Why Cooling Time Is Important Proper cooling time is not only a major factor in the end quality of a part — it’s the most time-consuming component of an injection molding cycle. Cooling typically makes up 80 to 85 percent of the overall cycle time. When you consider that the cooling part of the cycle is the counterpart to the immense amount of heat required to liquefy the plastic resin during the injection process, this 85 percent figure makes a lot…

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