PLASTIC MOLDING INDUSTRY

PRECISION ENGINEERING FOR THE PLASTIC MOLDING INDUSTRY

Steel Lavorazioni Meccaniche specializes in the production of PET preform extrusion machines for the plastic molding sector. We provide cutting-edge technologies and extensive know-how to perform precision machining specifically for plastic molding applications.

TYPES OF PLASTIC MOLDING: THE MAIN TECHNIQUES

Among the most commonly used materials for manufacturing everyday objects, technical components, and complex geometries, plastic plays a fundamental role.

At the heart of plastic processing is molding, a technique that allows the shaping of polymer-based objects and components according to specific design and production requirements.

The most common plastic molding techniques include:

Injection Molding: The plastic is heated to a molten state and injected into a closed mold. Once solidified, the material takes the shape of the mold and is removed as a finished component.

Compression Molding: The plastic is shaped and vulcanized inside a mold under high pressure, allowing for the insertion of various types of inserts.
Thermoforming: Plastic sheets or films are heated and then shaped around a mold using vacuum or pressure.

Thermoforming: Plastic sheets or films are heated and then shaped around a mold using vacuum or pressure.

Blow Molding: Used to create hollow objects, this technique forms a plastic tube that is inserted into a mold and inflated to take the desired shape.

Rotational Molding: Suitable for large hollow products, this process involves heating plastic powder inside a rotating mold, ensuring uniform material distribution.

Among these techniques, Steel Lavorazioni Meccaniche specializes in the production of PET preform molds for injection molding.

THE MAIN ADVANTAGES OF PLASTIC MOLDING

Injection molding is one of the most widely used plastic processing methods, allowing for the production of components in various shapes, sizes, and weights, ranging from a few grams to several kilograms.
The key advantages of this technique include:

COMPLEX GEOMETRIES

Capability to manufacture components with intricate geometries.

HIGH PRODUCTIVITY

Optimized processes for mass production.

COST REDUCTION

Lower operational costs and quick return on investment.

PROCESS AUTOMATION

Enhanced control over molding paths for high-quality output.

VERSATILITY

Compatibility with different plastics and molding machines.

FLEXIBILITY

Ability to integrate metal inserts and use various colors and materials.

COMPETITIVE EDGE

High production efficiency and precision for industrial applications.

INJECTION MOLDING PROCESS: HOW IT WORKS

MATERIAL SELECTION

The process starts with material selection, which may require pre-treatments like drying or dehumidification. The plastic is then transferred to the plasticization unit through an automated feeding system.

Inside the unit, a mechanical screw melts and mixes the plastic using friction and heat. Once the material reaches the required viscosity, it is injected under pressure into the mold, filling its cavities.

HOLDING PHASE

The next stage is the holding phase, where the material in its liquid state is kept under pressure to compensate for shrinkage caused by cooling and ensure proper solidification.

This is followed by cooling and complete solidification of the material, after which the mold opens and the finished part is removed, ready to start a new production cycle.

MOLDING PHASE

The molding phase consists of several key steps:

The mold closes.

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The injection unit moves forward and injects the material.

Pressure is maintained while the material cools.

The mold opens, and the finished component is ejected.

This process ensures high-quality, repeatable, and efficient production of plastic components.

STEEL LAVORAZIONI MECCANICHE’S KNOW-HOW IN THE PLASTIC MOLDING SECTOR

For over 30 years, Steel Lavorazioni Meccaniche has been providing its expertise and cutting-edge technologies for the production of mold bases for plastic materials, specializing in injection molding processes.

Specifically, the company excels in manufacturing PET preform mold bases, ensuring high precision and qualitythanks to its state-of-the-art machining tools.

STEEL LAVORAZIONI MECCANICHE REPRESENTS THE IDEAL PARTNER FOR THE PLASTIC MOLDING INDUSTRY, ENSURING HIGH PERFORMANCE, EFFICIENCY, AND QUALITY IN EVERY PROJECT.