What are the complete classifications of plastic molds
Plastic mold is a kind of combination mold used for compression molding, extrusion molding, injection molding, blow molding and low foaming molding. A series of plastic parts with different shapes and sizes can be processed with the coordinated changes of the convex, concave and auxiliary molding systems. Now let's talk about the classification of plastic molds.
A. Injection molding mold - TV shell, keyboard buttons, electronic products, plastic products around the computer, toys, household products (most commonly used)
B. Blowing mould - beverage bottle
C. Compression molding die - bakelite switch, scientific porcelain bowl and dish
D. Transfer molding die - integrated circuit products
E. Extrusion molding die - glue pipe, plastic bag
F. Thermoforming mould - transparent forming package shell
G. Rotary molding mould - soft plastic doll toy
Plastic molds are essential tools used in the manufacturing of various plastic products. They are used to shape plastic materials into specific shapes and sizes. Plastic molds come in different types and classifications, and understanding these classifications can help to select the right mold for a specific application. In this article, we will discuss the complete classifications of plastic molds.
Classification Based on Production Method
The first classification of plastic molds is based on the production method, and this classification includes three types:
- Injection Molds: Injection molds are the most common type of plastic molds used in the production of plastic products. The production process involves melting plastic pellets and injecting the molten plastic into a mold cavity. The molten plastic then cools and solidifies in the mold, taking on the shape of the mold.
- Blow Molds: Blow molds are used in the production of hollow plastic products such as bottles and containers. The production process involves melting plastic pellets and blowing them into a mold cavity. The molten plastic then takes on the shape of the mold as it cools and solidifies.
- Compression Molds: Compression molds are used in the production of large plastic products such as automotive parts and appliances. The production process involves placing a preheated plastic material into a mold cavity, which is then compressed to shape the plastic material.
Classification Based on Part Shape
The second classification of plastic molds is based on the shape of the part being produced, and this classification includes two types:
- Flat Molds: Flat molds are used to produce flat plastic parts such as plastic sheets, panels, and plates. The mold cavity is flat, and the plastic material is spread out evenly across the cavity to produce the desired shape.
- Complex Molds: Complex molds are used to produce plastic parts with complex shapes and designs. The mold cavity is designed to replicate the shape and design of the desired part, and the molten plastic material is injected into the cavity to take on the shape of the mold.
Classification Based on Mold Material
The third classification of plastic molds is based on the material used to make the mold, and this classification includes three types:
- Metal Molds: Metal molds are the most common type of plastic molds used in the production of plastic products. The most common metals used in mold making include steel, aluminum, and copper alloys.
- Plastic Molds: Plastic molds are made from plastic materials such as epoxy and polyurethane. They are often used for low-volume production and prototyping.
- Ceramic Molds: Ceramic molds are made from materials such as silica and alumina. They are often used in high-temperature applications where metal molds are not suitable.
Classification Based on Mold Design
The fourth classification of plastic molds is based on the design of the mold, and this classification includes two types:
- Two-Plate Molds: Two-plate molds are the most common type of plastic molds used in the production of plastic products. The mold cavity is divided into two plates, one fixed and one movable, and the plastic material is injected into the cavity between the plates.
- Three-Plate Molds: Three-plate molds are used in the production of plastic parts with complex shapes and designs. The mold cavity is divided into three plates, two fixed and one movable, and the plastic material is injected into the cavity between the plates.
Conclusion
Plastic molds come in different types and classifications, and understanding these classifications is essential in selecting the right mold for a specific application. The classifications of plastic molds include production method, part shape, mold material, and mold design. Understanding the different types of plastic molds can help to improve the quality of plastic products and increase production efficiency.
