Injection molding is a manufacturing process for producing parts from both thermo plastic and thermosetting plastic materials. The material is fed into a heated barrel, mixed and forced into a mold cavity where it cools and hardens to the configuration of the cavity. Injection molding is widely used for manufacturing a variety of parts, from the smallest component to entire body panels of cars.

The Major Advantages for Manufacturers:

  • Injection molding allows for high production output rates.
  • When producing your product you may use inserts within the mold. You may also use fillers for added strength.
  • Close tolerances on small intricate parts are possible with Injection Molding.
  • More than one material may be used at the same time when utilizing co-Injection Molding.
  • There is typically very little post production work required because the parts usually have a very finished look upon ejection.
  • All scrap may be reground to be re-used, therefore there is very little waste.
  • Full automation is possible with Injection Molding.

The first man-made plastic was invented in Britain in 1861 by Alexander Parkes. He publicly demonstrated it at the 1862 International Exhibition in London, calling the material he produced “Parkesine.” Derived from cellulose, Parkesine could be heated, molded, and retain its shape when cooled.

The industry expanded rapidly in the 1940s because World War II created a huge demand for inexpensive, mass-produced products. In 1946, American inventor James Watson Hendry built the first screw injection machine, which allowed much more precise control over the speed of injection and the quality of articles produced.

Today screw injection machines account for the vast majority of all injection machines. The plastic injection molding industry has evolved over the years from producing combs and buttons to producing a vast array of products for many industries including automotive, medical, aerospace, consumer products, toys, plumbing, packaging, and construction.

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