The lifespan of products is frequently an important topic, and the world of plastic injection molding is no exception. How long do injection molds last? There are a few key factors that will play a role in answering this question.
At EnviroTech Custom Injection Molders, we’re proud to offer mold design consulting and various other custom injection molding services for a variety of client and industry needs. We regularly help inform clients about expected mold and product lifespan, plus the key factors that influence them. Here are some of the most important such variables to be aware of.
What Does Mold Life Expectancy Mean?
Firstly, we want to be clear on what we mean by “mold life expectancy.” This is a broad term that refers to the total number of parts that can be produced with an injection mold before it needs to be replaced or repaired. In some industries, this may also include factors such as expected tolerances and quality control.
Mold life expectancy is not the same as product lifespan. While a well-made mold can last for a long time, the product itself may have a much shorter lifespan due to wear and tear, changes in market demand, or other factors.
Now that we’ve clarified our definition of mold life expectancy, let’s take a closer look at the key factors that can influence it.
Mold Material Quality
The single largest factor in determining the lifespan of an injection mold is the quality of the materials used to produce it. Higher-quality materials may be more expensive upfront, but they can significantly increase mold longevity and reduce the need for regular repairs or replacement.
Steel is the most common material used for injection molds due to its high durability and resistance to wear. However, within this category, there are various grades of steel that offer different levels of quality and lifespan.
Mold Operation Environment
Another key factor in determining mold lifespan is the environment in which it operates. Factors such as temperature, humidity, and the types of materials being used can all impact how long a mold will last.
For example, exposure to corrosive chemicals or extreme temperatures can cause rapid deterioration of a mold. Similarly, high levels of moisture or humidity can lead to rusting and other forms of damage over time.
Resins Used
While not as large a factor as the mold material itself, the type of resin used in production can also have an impact on mold life expectancy. Some resins are more abrasive or corrosive than others and may cause increased wear and tear on the mold.
Additionally, certain resins may require higher temperatures or pressures during the injection molding process, which can put additional strain on the mold and potentially shorten its lifespan.
Skills of the Mold Setter
It’s also worth noting that the skills and experience of the mold setter can play a significant role in extending mold lifespan. A well-trained and knowledgeable mold setter will know how to properly install and maintain a mold, reducing the risk of damage or premature wear.
On the flip side, a poorly trained or inexperienced mold setter may cause damage to the mold during installation or neglect necessary maintenance, leading to a shorter overall lifespan.
Production Run Time Gaps
Within many industries, production runs may have gaps in between where the mold is not in use. These gaps can also impact mold life expectancy.
When a mold sits idle for an extended amount of time, it can begin to rust or experience other forms of damage. Regularly using and maintaining the mold is essential to maximize its lifespan.
Production Cycle Speed
If you have a particularly high-speed production cycle, this may cause stress and wear on the mold at a faster rate than normal. While this may be unavoidable for certain products, it’s important to be aware that increased production speed can lead to a shorter overall lifespan for the mold.
Surface Treatment and Maintenance
Finally, the surface treatment and maintenance plan for your mold can have a significant impact on its longevity. Regularly cleaning and treating the mold’s surface with products such as rust inhibitors can help protect against wear and tear.
Additionally, repairing any minor damage or imperfections in the mold’s surface can prevent them from becoming larger issues that could ultimately lead to the need for replacement.
While there is no definitive answer to how long injection molds last, understanding these key factors and working with experienced professionals like those at EnviroTech Custom Injection Molders can help extend their lifespan as much as possible. Contact us today to learn more or arrange plastic injection molding services!
