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Extrusion molding |
Extrusion molding is a type of molding process where a continuous work piece is produced by forcing molten plastic through a shaped die. This is the most  usedprocess to mass manufacture shapes with a constant cross section, like window molding, electronic enclosures, doorinsulation seals, pipes, rods, etc. A key advantage of extrusion molding is it's low cost which makes it a very cost efficient process to manufacture products with a continuous profile.
The Process
The machines employed in extrusion molding is very similar to those used in injection molding. The thermoplastic granules are fed in the hopper where a a motor turns a screw and forces the plastic granules into the heater. As the plastic materials melt, they are pushed through the barrel into the die located at the end of the machine. The shape of the die determines the shape of the molded finished part. After the extrusion cools it may be cut into equal or desired lengths.
Plastic Extrusion Molding Design Considerations
- Walls must not be too thick to provide cooling.
- Use rounded corners.
- Use uniform wall thickness.
- Long items will have a slight curvature.
- Ends are rough cut.
Advantages of Extrusion Molding
Extrusion molding is comparatively a very cost efficient process. Even the tools employed in the process are of low cost. Moreover the products so formed boosts of uniform wall thickness and has the ability to produce intricate profiles. The process of extrusion molding provides a exclusive flexibility and hence is used to produce a wide range of products.
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