What is Injection Molding
Insert injection molding is the process of molding or forming plastic parts around other, non-plastic parts, or inserts. The inserted component is most commonly a simple object, such as a thread or rod, but in some cases, inserts can be as complex as a battery or motor.
Moreover, Insert Molding combines metal and plastics, or multiple combinations of materials and components into a single unit. The process makes use of engineering plastics for improved wear resistance, tensile strength and weight reduction as well as using metallic materials for strength and conductivity.
Insert Injection Molding Benefits
Metal inserts and bushings are commonly used for reinforcing the mechanical properties of the plastic parts or thermoplastic elastomer products that are created through the insert injection molding process. Insert molding provides a number of benefits that will improve your company’s processes all the way down to its bottom line. Some of the benefits of insert injection molding, include:
- Improves component reliability
- Improved strength & structure
- Reduces assembly and labor costs
- Reduces the size & weight of the part
- Enhanced design flexibility
Applications & Uses for Plastic Injection Inserts
Insert molding metal inserts are derived directly from insert injection materials and are regularly used in a wide range of industries including: aerospace, medical, defense, electronics, industrial and consumer markets. The applications for metal inserts for plastic parts, include:
- Screws
- Studs
- Contacts
- Clips
- Spring contacts
- Pins
- Surface mount pads
- And more