For most people, the idea of plastic molding is based on the process of injection molding. This process involves injecting melted plastic into a mold under pressure, ensuring the plastic fully fills the mold cavity. It is then cooled, and the mold opens, releasing a perfectly formed part or component.
While this is the solution for many shapes and types of molding requirements, there is always the need for other technologies. For parts, products, or components with the requirement of a hollow center, custom plastic dip molding provides a very cost-effective option.
The Process
Using various types of plastics, including neoprene and Plastisol, as well as urethane and latex, the mold is dipped or submerged into the melted plastic. The mold and the plastic coating are cooled, and the exterior molded component is peeled from the mold.
To complete the process, both the custom designed mold, as well as the plastic selected, are heated to a specific temperature. The submerged mold is kept in place for a specific amount of time based on the type of plastic, the thickness required, and the specifics of the job.
At the precise time, the coated mold is pulled from the bath and allowed to come to room temperature in a process known as curing. The length of time this is required in plastic dip molding is also specific to the given application.
It is also possible to have plastic dip molding processes completed on metal parts and components to create a protective as well as a decorative coating. This is done using a similar process, but the plastic coating is designed to adhere and cool directly on the metal rather than being removed.
