RpProto’s Insert Molding Capability
Our insert molding processes produce custom prototypes and on-demand production parts. We offer cost-efficient tooling, producing parts from a range of thermoplastic and liquid silicone rubber materials.
Overmolding and insert molding are frequently used for:
- low-volume production parts
- bridge tooling
- pilot runs
- functional prototyping and testing
For more information on our other services, check out our pages on Injection Molding Services and Custom Prototyping Services.
Material Options for Insert Molding
Metals: Brass, aluminum, and stainless steel are popular for inserts due to their durability and resistance to wear.
Plastics: ABS, nylon, polycarbonate, and other engineering plastics can be molded around inserts to form strong, lightweight parts.
In addition to standard materials, we can source specialty materials as required by your project. Whether you need threaded inserts for ease of assembly or conductive materials for electronic components, we provide solutions that enhance the functionality and longevity of your parts.
Applications of Insert Molding
Insert molding is ideal for creating components like electrical connectors, threaded fasteners, or medical devices where a strong bond between plastic and metal is required.
Insert molding can be an excellent option when designing parts that must incorporate multiple materials, providing a strong and durable solution while keeping production costs manageable.
They are widely used in mobile phones, computers, communication equipment, electronic appliances, auto parts, various plastic shells, aviation and other industries.
Benefits of Insert Molding
Improved Part Strength
The bond between plastic and insert strengthens the overall structure.
Reduced Assembly Costs
Since the insert is molded into the part, there’s no need for separate assembly steps.
Greater Design Flexibility
Allows manufacturers to combine materials, incorporating the best properties of each.
Insert Molding Process
Insert molding is a injection molding process where metal, plastic, or other materials are pre-placed into a mold before molten plastic is injected to create a single, solid component. It’s commonly used to embed components like metal parts, bushings, or threaded inserts within plastic parts, making them stronger and more durable. Here is how the process works:
- Insert Placement: The insert is placed manually or robotically into the mold cavity.
- Molding Process: Molten plastic is injected into the mold around the insert, filling the cavity and encasing the insert.
- Cooling and Ejection: Once the plastic cools and solidifies, the mold opens, and the final part with the insert firmly encapsulated is ejected.
FAQs
Insert molding is an injection molding process that involves placing a preformed component (or “insert”) into a mold before injecting molten plastic around it. This insert, often made from metal, ceramic, or another material, is then encapsulated by the plastic to create a single, integrated part.
Various inserts, including threaded inserts, bushings, pins, and metallic inserts, can be used depending on the desired function and strength requirements of the part.
Insert molding involves molding plastic around a pre-placed insert, whereas overmolding creates multiple layers by molding one material over another without pre-placed inserts.
Industries such as automotive, electronics, medical, and aerospace frequently use insert molding for durable, complex parts.