Do you need functional prototypes that require specific materials and/or complex geometries? Injection molding in China can be a very viable option. There’s an upfront investment in tooling, but the cost per part drops significantly as production volume increases.
However, the process isn’t always straightforward. Manufacturers need to assess your design and choose the right type of injection molding technique to get the best results. In this guide, we’ll break down the key processes involved and help you understand how to select the right approach for your project.
A deeper look at injection molding
At its core, injection molding refers to a group of processes that inject liquid resin into a custom mold to form a plastic part. Companies offering injection molding in China typically create these molds using either aluminum or steel, depending on the application and production goals.
While both materials are widely used, steel molds generally offer better durability and are more suitable for low-volume production. A steel mold can produce a higher number of parts over its lifespan compared to aluminum, making it a better long-term investment in many cases.
Injection molding types
Most providers of injection molding in China work with four main techniques:
• Thermoplastic injection molding is the most widely used method. It involves injecting heated thermoplastic into a mold, where it cools and solidifies into the final part.
• Overmolding combines two or more materials into a single component—often to add functionality or comfort. A common example is adding a rubber grip to a plastic handle.
• Liquid silicone rubber (LSR) molding uses thermoset materials that cure through a chemical reaction. It’s often used for parts that need flexibility, durability, or resistance to extreme temperatures.
• Insert molding uses a preformed component, typically metal, placed into the mold before injecting the resin. The plastic flows around the insert, locking it into place. This is useful for parts that require built-in metal threads or reinforcements.
Each method has its strengths, and the right choice depends on your part’s design, material, and production volume.
What should you use?
Working with a reputable service provider like HLH Prototypes Co. Ltd is the best way to take the guesswork out of injection molding in China. They’ll review your component’s design and suggest changes (if needed) so that it can be produced efficiently and correctly using a specific injection molding method. Visit https://www.hlhprototypes.com/ to learn more about their solutions and determine whether injection molding is right for your project.
About the Company:
HLH Prototypes Co. Ltd is a company specializing in delivering tailor-made, fast prototyping and efficient low-volume production solutions. Situated in China, our prototyping firm ensures the speed and quality necessary for your project's success. We extend our rapid part manufacturing services throughout China via our core offerings, which encompass sheet metal fabrication, CNC machining, swift tooling, rapid injection molding, urethane vacuum casting, FDM 3D printing, SLS 3D printing, and SLA rapid prototyping. We cater to a diverse clientele, including Fortune 500 corporations, small enterprises, and everyone in between, guaranteeing top-notch services. For additional details, please explore our website.
