There are many benefits of machining, but it isn’t always the best approach to a particular product or project. The plastic injection mold design is an effective alternative to machining when machining is impractical or when you don’t feel it will provide the desired results.
When Plastic Injection Molds Are Preferred
One of the reasons some businesses prefer plastic injection mold designs to machining is when they need a more diverse approach with reliable results. The mold gives companies a way to produce a precise version of the product at a predictable rate. Plastic injection molds are actually a preferred method when more than 1,000 parts are required a year as it is more cost-effective than machining. The investment for the plastic mold injection design, tools, and the mold itself may be substantial, but the more parts you have to produce, the more you will save in the long-term.
When Plastic Is Preferable to Metal
There are definite, easy to identify benefits to metal parts, such as durability and ability to withstand higher temperatures. However, plastic has about as many benefits, particularly the cost and ease of replacement. Even if a product originally had a metal part, it is possible that it can be replaced with plastic. First, you will need to determine if there is justification for the part being metal. If it is exposed to really high temperatures, constant wear, or perpetual pressure, you will want to continue to use metal. If not, you should consider switching to plastic.
Technology has been improving plastics, increasing plastic’s ability to withstand higher temperatures and durability. While they do not yet match the extremely high-temperature endurance or tensile strength of metal, plastic is a viable option for most other instances where metal has historically been required.
Conclusion
Machining has long been the preferred method of manufacturing parts and products because nothing could compare to the benefits of metal. With the advent of plastic injection mold design and technological revolution, the industry has increasingly elected to use plastic as an alternative. It offers many of the same benefits as metal but at a fraction of the cost. As plastic continues to be improved to better function under more stressful situations, the industry will continue to elect to use plastic injection molds whenever possible.
Topics: Injection Mold Design