Materials, manufacturability and formability, and proof-of-concept help realize your plastic parts. Although there are many variables to consider when designing plastic injection molded parts, these three factors can help you produce the final product on time and on budget while reducing risks.
Material selection
Material is one of the most important variables in plastic injection molding design. This is because it affects almost every aspect of plastic parts.
For example, the appearance and feel of the surface finish, the strength and durability of the component, and its chemical or environmental resistance all depend on the selected polymer. Moreover, if you are designing for medical or healthcare purposes, the materials must meet more stringent use standards and regulations.
For many applications, choosing an injection molding partner with an inventory of plastic materials can help reduce costs and speed up time to market.
The following questions can help guide you through material selection:
1. What is the intended use?
Do parts need to be flexible or rigid?
Do parts need to withstand extreme pressure or weight? How often?
Will parts be exposed to extreme temperatures, chemicals or moisture?
2. What are the expectations for surface finish and texture?
What needs to be done? Whether the finish will affect performance-such as skid resistance, glare reduction or ultraviolet protection.
Do you need color matching?
Will text be printed on parts? Do you need embossing?
Do your parts need to be clad and molded?
3. Are there regulatory requirements?
Are you designing medical components for implantation?
Do parts need to undergo repeated sterilization?
Do parts need to be approved by FDA? Will the final product be used by children or pets?
