CUSTOM INJECTION MOLDING
WHAT IS INJECTION MOLDING?
Injection molding is a method of producing plastic products that involves injecting molten plastic into a mold. It enables high production rates while producing durable parts and minimizing scrap material. The plastic injection molding process includes the following steps:
- Polymer resins, pigments, and additives are mixed in a cylinder that has a reciprocating screw inside of it
- The mixture is heated to a homogenous, viscous liquid
- The screw forces the plastic liquid into a closed plastic injection mold
- The plastic in the mold is cooled to room temperature to retain the desired shape
Custom plastic injection molding can be used to create a variety of products such as:
- Toys
- Containers
- Automotive parts
- Medical devices
- Consumer products
OUR CUSTOM INJECTION MOLDING CAPABILITIES
At Cooper Plastics, our injection molding manufacturing process is efficient, consistent, and enables us to offer low per-unit costs. It also gives us the ability to manufacture complex and detailed component geometries. Below is an overview of Cooper Plastics injection molding capabilities.
OUR MATERIALS
The injection molding process can be completed using a variety of materials. Below is a list of the ones we commonly use to manufacture custom plastic parts.
- Our primary materials:
– HDPE & LLDPE Polyethylene
– PP Polypropylene
– PA Nylon
– PMMA Acrylic
– POM Acetal or Polyoxymethylene
– PC Kostrate or Polycarbonate
- Other acceptable materials:
– PS Polystyrene
– ABS Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene
– TPU Thermoplastic Polyurethane
– TPR Thermoplastic Rubber
The properties of each material are unique. They have different levels of strength, flexibility, and resistance to heat or chemicals. The right material for your project depends on considerations like the final product’s intended use, aesthetic appeal, durability needs, environmental factors, and your budget.
For example, Nylon offers exceptional wear resistance and strength, making it suitable for components that must endure mechanical stress and friction. Polycarbonate is transparent, so it is utilized in applications requiring clarity and durability. ABS is ideal for custom-molded parts that require durability because of its impact resistance and toughness.
Our team will collaborate with you to choose the material that best fits the unique demands of the project. We will ensure that the products we manufacture meet the precise specifications of your industry and application while optimizing both performance and cost.
OUR INJECTION MOLDING MACHINES
The injection molding process relies on advanced machinery to precisely and consistently produce high-quality parts that meet exact specifications, whether in small batches or large-scale production runs. Injection molding machines (also known as presses) come in various types and typically consist of three key components: the injection unit, the injection mold, and the clamping unit.
The injection unit heats and injects the raw material into the mold cavity. The clamping unit holds the mold in place securely during the injection and cooling phases, ensuring consistent pressure and proper alignment.
All the injection molding machines we use at Cooper Plastics are equipped with robotic arms for automated unloading. Learn more about our machines below.
- 110 Tons
– Tie Bar Spacing 18.1” x 16.1” – Platen Size 26” x 24” – Max Daylight 34.65” (1029mm) – Min/Max Mold Height 6.3”/20.87” (160/530)mm – Clamp Stroke 13.8” – Ejector Stroke 3.54” - 200 Tons
– Tie Bar Spacing 22.0” x 20.1” – Platen Size 31.1” x 29.1” – Max Daylight 40.55” (1029mm) – Min/Max Mold Height 7.09”/22.83” (180/579)mm – Clamp Stroke 17.7” – Ejector Stroke 5.12” - 390 Tons 2x-Machines
– Tie Bar Spacing 32.3” x 29.1” – Platen Size 43.7” x 40.6” – Max Daylight 57.09” (1450mm) – Min/Max Mold Height 11.02”/31.5” (279/800)mm – Clamp Stroke 25.6” – Ejector Stroke 5.9” - 500 Tons
– Tie Bar Spacing 34.2” x 31.8” – Platen Size 48.8” x 45.7” – Max Daylight 70.88” (1800mm) – Min/Max Mold Height 12.99”/38.58” (329/979)mm – Clamp Stroke 31.5” – Ejector Stroke 7.1”
VALUE ADDED SERVICES FOR YOUR PROJECT
At Cooper Plastics, we offer numerous other value-added services in addition to our injection molding service. These services, which include product development, finishing, assembly, and more elevate the experience for our customers. We want you to get the most out of your partnership with us!
HOW DOES CUSTOM INJECTION MOLDING WORK?
Custom injection molding is a highly precise manufacturing process used to create complex parts and products. It utilizes heat, plastic injection molds, and pressure. Plastic materials are heated until they become molten and then injected into an injection mold under high pressure. After the injection process is complete, the plastic is cooled until it solidifies. Finally, the mold is opened and the product is ejected.
Injection molding is a versatile process. It can produce everything from small, intricate components to large, durable products. For this reason, an injection molding company can partner with businesses from various industries to manufacture high-quality plastic parts that meet their exact specifications.
LEARN EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT PLASTIC INJECTION MOLDING COMPANIES
Want to expand your knowledge of injection molding services? You can learn more about plastic injection molding companies by reading our Ultimate FAQ. It answers many of the common questions people have about injection molding processes and working with an injection molding supplier. Get the details you need before you begin your next injection molding project.
HOW MUCH DOES CUSTOM INJECTION MOLDING COST?
Custom injection molding costs vary depending on several factors from initial setup to ongoing production. The part complexity, mold design, material, and size of the product run all impact the cost. Secondary options like drilling, assembly, and quality control add value to the project but also increase the price tag. Plan accordingly and make sure there are no surprises by working with a manufacturing company that is transparent with pricing and provides a detailed quote for your project.
Want to partner with Cooper Plastics for your injection molding needs? Request a free quote or contact us for more information.
