Plastic can be moulded in a number of different ways, but the question is – which one is right for you?
Here the plastic manufacturing experts at Measom Freer, take a closer look at the types of plastic moulding available and the differences between them, to help you make the right choice.
What is plastic moulding?
First let’s start with the basics – what exactly is plastic moulding?
Put simply, plastic moulding is the act of reforming plastic into the exact shape and design you require. Typically, it involves hot molten plastic being injected or forced into a mould where it is then briefly left to cool. The mould is then split to reveal the final shape, and ta-da – your new plastic product is revealed!
Types of plastic moulding
Each method of plastic moulding requires a specific manufacturing process that shapes the parts based on their individual specifications.
4 of the most commonly used techniques are:
- Injection moulding (available at Measom Freer): plastic melt is forced (‘injected’) at high pressure into a mould cavity and cooled. Typically favoured for high volume production, injection moulding is hugely versatile and can be used for everything from large parts right through to much smaller precision items. Our aim is to produce the highest possible quality for your mouldings.
- Extrusion Blow Moulding (available at Measom Freer): likened to the method of blowing glass, Extrusion Blow Moulding (EBM) is a process where molten plastic is forced between a "die" and a "mandrel" or "pin" to create a tube of hot material calles a "parison". This is extruded down intin an open mould where the mould is then closed pinchine the parison at the bas and cutting it at the top. The mould is then moved over to a blowing station where a "blow pin" is dropped down into the tool and then air is forced into the parision blowing it out to expand against the walls of the mould and create a hollow container. This method is popular for the mass production of plastic bottles as it is both fast and economical.
- Compression moulding: often used for larger plastic parts, compression moulding does just that – it compresses! Plastic is placed into a heated mould before being ‘compressed’ into shape and allowed to cool.
- Rotational moulding: sometimes referred to as roto-moulding, this method is most suited to the creation of large, hollow parts. It is a slower process than the others and works by using centrifugal force to produce evenly walled plastic items by combining high temperatures with constant rotational movements.
Choosing the right method
Whilst we’ve covered the most frequently used methods of plastic moulding, this list is by no means exhaustive. So, it’s important to do your research and to be clear about exactly what it is you need from your end product.
The right mould technique for your application will be dependent on a number of factors, not least, the plastic items you wish to create, the type of plastic you want to use, the quantity you require and the speed of production needed.
Talk to us about your requirements
Here at Measom Freer, we are experts in manufacturing plastic bottles, caps, containers and measuring aids. Specialising in blow moulding and injection moulding and can offer custom moulding solutions to ensure we meet your exact requirements. We have been moulding plastic since 1937.
With state-of-the-art equipment and our own in-house tooling room and design team, you’ll struggle to find a more comprehensive service than that offered by our experienced and friendly team.
Why not get in touch to find out more and discover how we can help you? Fill in our enquiry form or call us today on 0116 288 1588.