Plastic injection moulds are the consequence of forcing melted plastic into a mould to produce a robust plastic part. Once the plastic has cooled, the part can then be ejected. Injection moulding is often used in mass production and prototyping. It is also one of the main processes for producing plastic products for a range of industries.
Furthermore, it is the most efficient way to produce any plastic article due to its fast turnaround and high production capabilities that come at a comparatively low cost. There are a variety of plastic materials to choose from to ensure that your desired properties are met. And with the help of expert plastic injection mould manufacturers such as ourselves, we can help you determine the best one for your application.
How does plastic injection moulding work?
The process involves melting either thermoplastic or thermosetting plastic before injecting it into an aluminium or steel mould in the shape of the desired product. Once plastic injection moulds are cool enough, they are then ejected in their finished state.
It’s an extremely simple process with very minimal labour costs for plastic injection mould manufacturers. Not to mention, this manufacturing method offers a fast turnaround of the product.
What are the key advantages?
Manufacturing companies capitalise on the many benefits that plastic injection moulding holds. Here is an insight:
High Production Rates
No matter the batch size, plastic injection moulding can achieve as little or as much product as you require. In fact, it is one of the most efficient processes for the mass production of any plastic product.
High Tolerances Are Repeatable
Injection moulds are achieved by melting plastics at extreme temperatures. Due to the materials used, this can be done repeatedly, which is ideal when perfecting the product or recycling materials.
Wide Range of Materials
Here at Stephens Plastics, we have a wide range of plastics available for injection moulding. From acrylics to Polyethylene, we ensure that your project is matched with a suitable plastic.
Low Labour Costs
Plastic injection mould manufacturers trust this manufacturing process for its significantly low labour costs. Due to adhering to large batch quantities and using state-of-the-art machinery, we can reduce costs for both you and us.
Minimal Scrap Losses
Our bespoke plastic injection moulding is undergone through using the strict measurements given to us by our customers. Therefore, we automatically reduce wastage by being able to utilise all of the material.
Simple Finishing
Once the moulds are complete, the finished products require little to no additional work. And if they do, these touches tend to be simple and straightforward.
The Key Areas of Use
Plastic injection mould manufacturers work with a variety of businesses to produce performance-enhancing parts, including the following examples:
Hygiene Products
Hygiene products such as soap and hand towel dispensers.
Health and Safety Products
Hand sanitiser dispensers, safety barriers and cleaning product packaging.
Medical Products
First aid kit boxes, syringes and eye drop bottles.
Lighting Products
Car headlights, torch casing and lenses.
Electronics Products
Doorbell, at-home central heating console and light switch casings.
Consumer Products
Toiletry bottles, washing pegs and plastic cutlery.
FAQs
What is plastic injection moulding and how does it work?
Plastic injection moulding injects molten plastic into a mould to create various parts. This process efficiently and cost-effectively produces large quantities of identical items, making it ideal for mass production and prototyping. Once the plastic cools, it ejects from the mould and is ready for immediate use or minimal finishing.
Why should I consider plastic injection moulding for my next project?
This moulding offers numerous advantages, such as high production rates, low labour costs, and the ability to create complex parts with minimal waste. This process is versatile, economical, and suitable for a wide range of industries, from consumer goods to medical devices.
What types of plastics can be used in injection moulding, and how do I choose the right one?
Common plastics used in injection moulding include ABS, Polyethylene, Polycarbonate, Nylon, and Polypropylene. The choice of material depends on your product’s specific requirements, such as durability, flexibility, and resistance to heat and impact. Our expert team can help you select the best material for your application.
How does plastic injection moulding compare to other manufacturing processes like CNC machining or 3D printing?
Plastic injection moulding is often more cost-effective and faster for large production runs compared to CNC machining or 3D printing. While CNC machining is great for precision metal parts and 3D printing excels in rapid prototyping with complex geometries, injection moulding is ideal for producing high volumes of plastic parts with consistent quality.
What is the minimum order quantity for plastic injection moulding at Stephens Plastics?
The minimum order quantity depends on the complexity and material cost of the product. Generally, products with higher material costs and lower production lead times are subject to lower minimum order quantities. Contact us to discuss your specific project needs.
How can Stephens Plastics help reduce costs in my plastic injection moulding project?
At Stephens Plastics, we optimise the design and tooling process to minimise material waste and reduce overall production costs. Our expert team works closely with you to ensure that your parts are manufactured efficiently and cost-effectively, delivering high-quality results every time.
Plastic Injection Mould Manufacturers In the UK
Stephens Plastic Mouldings has over twenty years’ worth of experience in the moulding industry. Since its launch, the business has continuously grown; perfecting our methods to deliver exceptional results in every project. We offer a beginning-to-end service, from the initial design process to the production of plastic injection moulds.
In addition, from consumer plastics, such as big package chopping boards, to plastic assemblies, we can design, prototype, create, innovate, manufacture and deliver whatever plastic injection mouldings that you require.
Furthermore, as a secondary business to Stephens Gaskets, you will benefit from our extensive experience as injection moulding specialists. We strive to provide solutions that coincide with the continually evolving injection moulding industry. With us, you can rest assured that we will meet your quality and delivery expectations using the most cost-effective production techniques available today.
If we sound like the right plastic injection mould manufacturers for you, contact us today. We can offer advice on tooling and how best to manufacture your part to keep costs down, as well as outline the design process. Our contact number is 0121 544 5808 or if you’d prefer to get in touch via email, our address is sales@stephensplasticmouldings.co.uk.