Plastic molding refers to the process of pouring molten plastic into the mold or container to allow it to take the desired shape. The process of molding takes place through a variety of techniques, resulting in the creation of a wide range of plastic components and parts. The plastic Injection molding technique, though, stands out as the most advanced process of all. However, one must be familiar with other techniques too, in order to expand his horizon of knowledge.
The following section talks about the different types of plastic molding methods. Let us know about them one by one.
5 Kinds Of Plastic Molding Techniques
- Injection Molding
This is the most versatile molding technique of all. Here the melted plastic is directly injected into the mold. The process takes place under high pressure to achieve the desired part. Once the mold is filled, the plastic is kept to cool down and take shape. It is then opened to check the results.
Injection molding is fast, cost-efficient, and can be used to develop parts of varied sizes, shapes, and complexities. However, with complex parts, the process requires a keen eye to achieve an excellent end product.
- Extrusion Molding
Here, the melted plastic is pressed through a shaped hole or die to build the desired long-shaped part. These dies are custom-made for different applications. Products like PVC pipes, straws, etc. can be created in large quantities using extrusion molding. It is a cost-effective and highly productive technique.
- Blow Molding
Similar to the traditional blowing of gas, in blow molding, a machine fills a plastic mold with air to get the desired shape. Then the plastic is blown directly into its final shape. Once it gets cooled, the machine takes out the end product.
This technique is best used to create simple and identical hollow containers with thin walls, like water bottles, drums, cases, fuel tanks, storage containers, etc. It is a fast and economic technique.
- Compression Molding
In this technique, the melted plastic is poured into a heated mold, which is then compressed to create the desired form. It is performed under high temperatures, which ensures the excellent strength of the end product. It is then cooled down to set the form and then removed from the mold once the plastic takes shape.
Compression molding is mostly used to make durable plastic replacement parts for damaged metal parts. Moreover, it is an economic technique when you produce in bulk. But the cost may vary depending on the design complexity, the number of voids, and surface finish.
- Rotational Molding
Rotational molding or rotomolding is the technique where the liquid plastic is put in the mold and then rotated at high speed. This way the plastic covers the mold surface completely, leaving all the walls evenly thick. Once the mold cools down, the plastic takes its shape and the product is then taken out.
This technique uses a limited amount of material to make parts or products. It is thus a material-saving and cost-efficient process. Car parts, dust bins, pet homes, storage tanks, road cones, etc. can be created using rotomolding.
Conclusion- 5 Kinds Of Plastic Molding Techniques
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