Explore the Latest Developments in Injection Molding Technology
At Metro Plastics, we are constantly educating ourselves on the latest developments and trends in injection molding technology.
Even with a process as streamlined as injection molding, there are still advancements that can be made in the technology behind it to improve efficiency.
Metro Plastics explores the latest developments here.
Injection Molding Technology Meets Artificial Intelligence
The discourse that surrounds artificial intelligence is certainly mixed, but with manufacturing implications, AI can lead to numerous effective changes.
AI can be deployed for historical record-keeping of injection molding machines. When it comes time to service any piece of equipment, it provides a more accurate reflection of needed repairs.
AI can perform inventory and waste management tasks to monitor what’s leaving the facility and minimize a manufacturer’s carbon footprint as much as possible. AI and smart technology are being paired together to enhance the injection molding process. New machines and updated software allow for faster and more efficient injection molding services to be performed.
New injection molding machines are equipped with sensors that keep real-time data on cycle information such as temperature, pressure, and material viscosity. These metrics can support predictive maintenance and process optimization.
Sustainability and Advanced Material Selection
Technological advancements are being made in material selection, resulting in more sustainable products and manufacturing processes. New mixes of polymers are being developed for longer-lasting products that minimize environmental disruption. More and more manufacturers are utilizing high-weight molecular polyethylene and thermoplastic olefin because of their enhanced properties and improvements in part longevity.
There are also developments in alternative polymer sources for injection molding products, such as ocean-sourced bioplastics. Recycled plastics are being used as well, including glass fiber reinforced PET.
Injection Molding Technology Features Automation and Robotics
Automation and robotics are nothing new in manufacturing, and that includes injection molding services. What is new, however, are the latest advancements being made. Collaborative robotics and ‘lights out’ manufacturing — automated factories where 24/7 manufacturing without people is achievable — are continuing to be introduced. These different forms of automation are making production faster, safer, and more cost-effective.
Hybrid systems within injection molding machines lower energy consumption, which ultimately leads to lower operating costs and improves a company’s carbon footprint.
Usage of 3D Printing
3D printing likely will not replace standard injection molding techniques, but 3D printing can be impactful as an injection molding technology in a few different ways.
3D printers can be used to create prototypes or mock-ups for manufacturers to share with their customers. Prototyping with 3D printing is cost-effective and time-efficient in creating a baseline model product that, after revisions, can be created through traditional injection molding practices.
3D-printed parts can be overmolded through standard injection molding machines. This service eliminates the need for extensive post-processing and enhances design flexibility.
Metro Plastics is Your Injection Molding Technology Leader. Connect With Us Today.
Metro Plastics has proudly served clients across the country from our Noblesville, Indiana, home since 1975. Work with us and discover why we’re among the best plastic injection molding companies in the industry.
We take pride in the work that leaves our facilities and the relationships we build with our customers. As an ISO 9001 certified company, quality isn’t just a buzzword, it’s a priority for our team.
We understand that technology continues to evolve, and if you don’t evolve with it, you’ll get left behind. Metro Plastics continues to be on the cutting edge of technological advancements and sustainability efforts in order to remain an industry leader.
Want to partner with one of the most tech-savvy injection molders in the industry? Contact us today and see why we are the right choice for you.