Custom Insert Molding Service
What Is Insert Molding
Insert molding refers to pre-installing the insert in the mold and injecting resin. The molten resin is combined with the insert to melt. The insert is usually metal, and the injected plastic material is typically rigid plastic. During the molding process, the insert usually needs to be preheated so that its surface temperature is close to the melting point of the cover material for optimal bonding.
Insert Molding Process
- Preparation of Inserts: Metal or plastic inserts are cleaned and prepared for molding.
- Insert Placement: Inserts are placed into the mold cavity, either manually or automatically.
- Injection and Molding: Molten plastic is injected into the mold, encapsulating the inserts and forming the final part.
Insert Molding Material
Injection Molding Materials
The molding material or the resin is chosen based on the mold. We offer the following materials for insert molding.
- Polypropylene (PP)
- Polyamides/Nylon (PA)
- Polycarbonate (PC)
- Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS)
- Polyethylene (PE)
- Polyurethane (PU)
- Natural Rubber (NR)
Available Insert Types
We offer various types of inserts for insert molded components. Metal inserts in plastic molding are typically made of brass, stainless steel, or standard steel.
- Custom insert for special needs
- Screws and threaded fastener
- Electronics component
- Bearing and bushing
- Magnet
- Clip, pin, spring, and rivets
Injection Molding Material Selection Guide
Advantages of Insert Molding
- Allows for the creation of stronger and more durable products by encapsulating inserts with the molding material.
- Securely encapsulated, reducing the risk of parts coming part, which enhance the integrity and reliability of the final product.
- Intergration of intricate designs and features that may be challenging or impossible with traditional assembly methods.
Application of Insert Molding
Insert molding is used to produce parts with metal or other material inserts, improving functionality and reducing the need for secondary assembly operations. Following are common examples.
- Electrical connectors and components
- Control knobs and switches
- Suction Cups
- Encapsulation of wire plugs and connectors
- Battery packs
- Handheld device housings
- Medical equipment components
- Communication devices
Why Choose Us
Ensuring accurate and intricate part production
Meeting diverse industry needs
Proven track record in successful projects
Rigorous quality checks for reliable results
Contract Manufacturing Solution
Mold & Tooling Service
Design for Manufacturability
Surface Finishing
Assembly Manufacturing
FAQs of Insert Molding
How does insert molding compare to overmolding?
Insert molding integrates metal or plastic inserts into a plastic part during molding to enhance strength and functionality.
Overmolding covers a substrate with a plastic material to improve aesthetics, comfort, or functionality. Both methods reduce assembly and improve part performance.
What are the methods for loading inserts?
How do you ensure the inserts remain secure during the molding process?
- Manual Loading: Suitable for low-volume production, where an operator places the inserts into the mold.
- Automatic Loading: Used for high-volume production, where robotics can place inserts quickly and accurately, reducing labor costs and increasing efficiency