There are numerous areas of our world where modern technology continues to allow for improvements in various processes, and a great example here is the plastic injection molding realm and related areas of manufacturing. This industry has grown in a number of ways over the years, including new forms of technology that improve various processes in multiple different major areas.
At EnviroTech Custom Injection Molders, we’re happy to utilize cutting-edge technology for all our injection molded products, from their assistance with our basic processes to other important themes like maintaining environmental friendliness and more. What are some of the top areas where injection molding technology has improved in recent years, and what are some examples within these sectors? Here’s a rundown.
Sustainability
As we just noted above, sustainability is one key area where technology has improved the injection molding industry — and it’s also a major area of demand. Here are some ways it’s improved in recent years:
- Packing conservation: One vital aspect of sustainable manufacturing is utilizing as little packing material as possible, and new injection molding technology has helped make that a reality. In fact, many products that were once thought to require heavy-duty foam packaging can now be shipped in lighter recycled cardboard boxes with very little need for added cushioning. This not only reduces the amount of waste produced per shipment, but it also helps to lower shipping costs.
- Energy-efficient machines: Another way that technology has helped make the injection molding industry more sustainable is through energy-efficient machines. These days, many manufacturers are opting for all-electric injection molding machines instead of hydraulic ones. Not only do all-electric machines use less energy, but they also generate less heat, which helps to reduce the carbon footprint of the manufacturing process.
- Better material utilization: Furthermore, technology has helped to make the injection molding industry more sustainable through better material utilization. Newer machines are able to utilize a higher percentage of the raw material, which helps to reduce waste and lower production costs.
- Non-toxic material usage: Finally, another way that technology has helped to make the injection molding industry more sustainable is through the use of non-toxic materials. In the past, some injection molded products were made with materials that contained harmful chemicals. However, thanks to advances in technology, it is now possible to create injection molded products with eco-friendly materials that are safe for both the environment and human health.
Automation Areas
Another major area where technology has improved the injection molding industry is in the realm of automation. In particular, there have been significant advances in both robots and software that help to automate various aspects of the injection molding process. Here are some examples:
- Robots: One way that technology has improved the injection molding industry is through the use of robots. In the past, the injection molding process was entirely manual, which meant that it was both time-consuming and expensive. However, thanks to advances in robotics technology, it is now possible to automate many aspects of the injection molding process. This not only helps to improve efficiency and lower costs, but it also helps to reduce the chances of human error.
- Software: In addition to advances in robotics technology, there have also been significant advances in software that helps to automate the injection molding process. In particular, there are now many software programs that are designed specifically for the injection molding industry. These programs help to streamline the entire injection molding process, from start to finish.
Converting Metal Products to Plastic
The metal-to-plastic conversion technique has been around since the 1950s, but only recently has the development of new, enhanced polymers that are far more cost-effective in this area served as a shot in the arm, of sorts. There are several major sectors where operators are realizing plastics can be used in place of metal, both for cost-related purposes and for themes like sustainability and part quality. Here are some examples:
- Construction materials: One of the most notable ways that technology has helped to improve the injection molding industry is through the use of construction materials. In particular, there have been significant advances in the use of plastic-based construction materials. Thanks to these advances, it is now possible to create injection molded products that are far more durable and long-lasting than ever before.
- Packaging and shipping: Another area where technology has helped to improve the injection molding industry is through packaging and shipping. In particular, there have been significant advances in the use of plastic-based packaging materials. Thanks to these advances, it is now possible to create injection molded products that are better protected during shipping and storage.
- Manufacturing processes: Finally, another area where technology has helped to improve the injection molding industry is through manufacturing processes. In particular, there have been significant advances in the use of plastic-based manufacturing processes. Thanks to these advances, it is now possible to create injection molded products that are of a higher quality and more consistent than ever before.
The Future of Injection Molding
Looking ahead, it is clear that the injection molding industry is only going to continue to grow and evolve. Thanks to advances in technology, the injection molding process is becoming more efficient, more cost-effective, and more sustainable. In addition, new materials and automation technologies are helping to improve the quality of injection molded products. As the injection molding industry continues to grow and evolve, it is clear that the future is bright for both manufacturers and consumers alike.
For more on this, or to learn about any of our plastic injection molded products or applications, speak to the team at EnviroTech Custom Injection Molders today.
