Overview

The plastic molding process is known to the industry for over a hundred years creating many different types of shapes and designs. Plastic molding also lets companies create mass-market consumer durables at affordable costs reaching billions of people across the world. From basic toothbrushes to large auto and aerospace parts, all made possible through plastic molding. However, to satisfy costs, production & usage needs, the industry has invented different types of plastic molding processes to suit every industrial and consumer requirements. In this article, we are going to discuss various plastic molding processes currently available in the industry.

Types of plastic molding processes

1. Compression Molding
2. Extrusion blow Molding
3. Injection Molding
4. Low-Pressure Injection Molding
   1. Structural foam
   2. Gas Assisted IM
5. Pressure Forming
6. Reaction Injection Molding
7. Rotational Molding
8. Thermoforming

Compression Molding

Compression molding uses matching closed cavity molds under high pressure. The material which is in the form of powder, sheet, semi-liquid etc. is placed into the heated mold. When the mold is closed, the material takes the form of the mold shape under high compression pressure. Once the part is solidified under continued heating, mold is opened to remove the formed part. Fillers and other reinforcing materials are added to the thermosets. The alignment of the fibres and length determines the physical properties of the part.

Materials – EPDM, NBR, PVC nitrile, polypropylene, ABS