Why You Should Consider Using The Plastic Injection Moulding Process
It is hard to talk about the packaging industry without discussing plastic injection moulding. This is because this process is vital in the packaging business but has other uses too, below are some things you should know about this important process.
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What is Injection Moulding?
Injection moulding is a popular manufacturing process. It is very popular in the packaging industry because it is used for producing a variety of containers. The entire process may look complicated but the science behind this process is quite simple. This process involves melting and injecting molten materials into a mould. In most cases, the materials used for this process are elastomers and polymers. However, in some cases, glasses and metals are also used.
History of Injection Moulding
The inventors of injection moulding were the American brothers Isaiah Hyatt and John Wesley Hyatt. These brothers invented the first injection moulding machine in 1872. This was a relatively simple machine but it was modified by the German chemists Theodore Becker and Arthur Eichengrun early in the 20th century. These modifications revolutionized the injection moulding process and made it extremely popular.
How the Process Works
The first stage in this process is to feed the raw materials into a heated barrel. Once in the barrel, the materials are heated until they melt and have a molten consistency. This mixture is then injected into a cavity (usually the mould). In this cavity, the molten mater is cooled and hardens then takes the shape of the mould. In simple English, this is how the process works. Note that injection moulding is used for both small and large products. Manufacturers use injection moulding for small body parts and even large panels like car doors and engine parts. For this reason, there is usually a variety in the design, shapes and sizes of the moulds.
Applications
One of the best things about injection moulding is that it is versatile. Manufacturers use it to manufacture plastic containers, chairs, bottle caps, packaging, musical instruments, wire spools, storage containers and even mechanical engine parts. The best thing about this process is that it is the perfect system of producing many volumes of the same item.
Advantages of Injection Moulding
This process many advantages especially when you are using thermoplastic and thermosetting polymers. Among other benefits, this process gives you a clear edge because the products can be recycled. Again, your moulds can come in single cavity or multiple cavity systems to enhance production. You can even adjust or modify some things during the production process. Add the fact that this system gives you low-cost mass production and you can see why it is so popular in different countries these days.
Modern Injection Moulding Methods
Injection moulding procedures have moved from small-scale production to large-scale production. This process is used many industries including the plastic industry, automobile industry, computers and paint manufacturing, among other industries.
Final Word
As you can see, injection moulding is a great way to enhance production. Use the right materials and the right processes and you will get excellent results.