If you want to learn more about plastic molding, you’ve come to the right place. This incredible process is achieved by shaping liquid or another pliable material with a rigid frame (known as a mold). While this initial explanation does a good job of expressing the basic nature of plastic molding, there are several different types of plastic molding processes, so read on!

Rotational Molding

Rotational molding, also known as rotomolding, is ideal for creating large, hollow pieces. You start with a powder or liquid resin and a metal mold. The mold goes into an oven and repeatedly rotates until the resin completely covers the interior of the mold. This constant rotation uses centrifugal force and ensures even walls throughout the entire product.

Practically no material is wasted in rotomolding, and excess material can be re-used, making this process eco-friendly and economical!

Compression Molding

Compression molding places a plastic material into a heated mold. Then, the mold squeezes the plastic into a specific shape, compressing the material into the final product. After the plastic is in the proper configuration, it must be cooled, trimmed, and removed to complete the process.

The high heat allows finished products to be incredibly strong and durable, making compression molding the perfect option for the automotive industry. The initial cost of compression molds is high, but the price is quickly recouped if you need high quantities of the finished product.

Injection Molding

Finally, polymer injection molding is perhaps the most ubiquitous form of plastic molding today. A heated nozzle injects liquid plastic into a mold, and once the plastic cools, you have your product! This simple design makes injection molding ideal for a wide range of applications, from car parts to components used in surgery.

On top of that, there are hundreds of plastic resins that offer different properties so that you can customize the material to your needs.

Now that you know the different types of plastic molding processes, consider your product and decide which is best for you!