Injection molding is used by many different companies to produce more parts that are identical in higher volumes. Injection molding is considered one of the most popular ways to mold as it is quicker and easier. There are many advantages and disadvantages of using injection molding as well as different types you may use.

Advantages of Injection Molding

Although injection molding is used by many different companies, some may not know the advantages of using them such as:

  1. The cost is greatly cheaper than manually molding your product.
  2. The molding is flexible, which allows you to twist and turn the molding in any way so you can get the shape you need.
  3. It’s great for molding the smaller, more complex parts.
  4. You have the option for clear or different coloring mold.
  5. Since your output rate is higher, you are able to produce more parts, which in return gives more profit.

With all the advantages must come disadvantages. The disadvantages of injection molding are:

injection moulding
injection moulding

Disadvantages of Injection Molding

  1. Although cheaper, the cost of keeping your machines maintained and up to date may be higher due to repairs.
  2. The cost of smaller, complex parts may be higher with a slower output rate.
  3. The price of molding machines can be very expensive.
  4. Before being able to do any sort of molding, you must have the design already created.
  5. The larger the part size needed, the more expensive it will be to mold.

Types of Injection Molding

There are two types of injection molding: hot runner injection molding and cold runner injection molding. Hot runner molding has parts that are physically heated. These types of molding help transfer the molten plastic quickly from the machine into the mold that you need to make for your part. It can also be known as the “shell maker”. The cold runner molding is unheated and is a channel that directs the molten plastic in the molding after it leaves the machine. Cold runner molding usually consists of two or three plates that help with the mold base whereas hot runner molding only consists of two plates.

Now that you know a little more about injection molding and different types of molding, you should decide if it’s right for you to use. Understanding the differences between hot and cold runner molding may help you determine and help you choose the best option. Keep in mind the size, how many moldings you may need, the location of your parts and your budget as well. Reaching out to a company and/or a person that is experienced or specializes in injection molding may help you in your decision.