Key Factors Affecting the Cost of Plastic Injection Production
Plastic injection production is an extremely popular manufacturing process. This due to its capacity to create large quantities of the same part. At Creatingway, we employ this technique in the production of a variety of plastics. The process normally entails melting through the application of pressure and heat. We essentially inject the melted plastic into a mold to form the component we need. When our clients come to us with a new project, they usually have a list of concerns and questions.
At the top of their queries is what factors affect the cost of the injection molding process. Another one may be how they can make the most out of their budget. We can easily answer the second query through a detailed analysis of the first one. Having an understanding of the factors influencing the cost of plastic injection production is key. You can develop your component with the specifications in mind. Additionally, you will have a basis for discussing production options with your injection molding company. Here is further insight into these factors.
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Part Design
If a component is complex, then the mold is likely to be complex. You can choose to simplify your design if you want to reduce the cost. Large and simple molds are sometimes cheaper than the small and complex ones. The custom, complex plastic injection molding components require more tooling then simple components. This makes them more expensive. Additionally, the machining of complex components may need a secondary EDM process for the undercut features. This in turn adds to the production time.
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Part Material in Use
The resin of choice has considerable influence over the cost of plastic injection molding. We normally contemplate the following when choosing the type of resin: the quantity of the parts, molding and compounding temperatures as well as the additives. Additionally, we consider the availability of the resin, its color, and the grade. The chosen resin may also affect the mold’s maintenance requirements. For instance, abrasive resins may degrade the mold. Resins containing minerals, carbon fiber, and glass are the abrasive types of resins. This contributes to higher maintenance costs.
Different thermoplastics need different manufacturing temperatures. For example, polypropylene, polyethylene, and polystyrene require low temperatures hence lower cost. The liquid crystal variety of thermoplastics include polysulfone and polyphenylene sulfates. They need higher temperatures translating to higher costs.
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Mold Material in Use
There are a variety of steels available for the creation of the mold. The type of resin material in use normally determines the material of the mold. For instance, high-temperature resins need steel that offers high hardness or steel plated ones. We also consider the maintenance cost of the mold when choosing the mold materials. It is more expensive when working with molds whose material requires constant replacement.
Different molds provide varying service life spans. Those that offer longer lifespans are obviously more valuable. They compose of durable steel which contributes to an increase in the cost of the mold. Additionally, we consider the surface finishes, cycle time as well as the production volume. These features contribute to the useful lifespan of the mold. We sometimes tool steel since it offers great resilience and durability. It is also less expensive than aluminum making it an ideal material when manufacturing lower-production runs.
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Volume and Cavities
It is really intuitive when you think about it. When it comes to volume and cavities, think in terms of production time instead of the number of components. If your part needs a lot of cavities, then it requires a long press time. This limits our ability to manufacture a component quickly thus increasing its cost. The faster we produce a component, the lower it will cost. Higher production costs also arise when producing high volume components.
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Mold Base
When it comes to the mold base, think of it as the case that holds the mold cavities components and inserts. We can estimate the cost of the base depending on the mold’s size and the type of steel that makes it. We can also factor in the customizations that our clients might ask us to include. A majority of the mold bases come in standard dimensions. We additionally machine them to meet the specifications of the project.
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Cycle Time
A tool requires uniform cooling through the bore impressions. This helps it achieve a faster machining cycle. This, therefore, means the tool will need a better precision build. This contributes to an increase in maintenance cost and tool construction.
Why Should You Choose Us as Your Plastic Injection Molding Manufacturer?
With our years of experience in the industry, Creatingway offers a one-stop-shop for top-notch plastic parts. Our team of experts knows all the variable that influences the cost of injection molding. We are an excellent option for clients seeking to stick within their limited budgets.
Creatingway is concentrated on CNC machining manufacturing, prototype machining, low-volume manufacturing, metal fabrication, and parts finishing services, provide you the best support and services. ask us one inquire now.
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