The Main Types Of Structural Foam Molding

By Gwen Lowe


Since its introduction in the nineteenth century, plastic has found use in many places and even preference over fiberglass, wood, metal or even concrete. A clear illustration would be the number of plastic utensils we see in homes today compared to iron or aluminum ware. Even the traditional concrete floors are slowly being replaced by plastic. On the other hand, stores are packed with plastic chairs of sleek models. Now, how do they model the plastic seats for example? Well, brief description of structural foam molding process is all it takes to answer the question.

Briefly, this type of molding refers to the use of an inert gas to produce foam. Once the foaming action is started, molten polymer then flows through the mold to form the required shape. It is an injection molding procedure usually carried out in low-pressure environment to produce high-density polyethylene.

The flexibility of this method means that it can use different raw material; be that as it may, Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC), Polycarbonate and Polystyrene (PS) are used frequently. In fact, the method is mainly used in the production of Business Machine Housings and Containers Pallets. In addition, the technique produces point of sale Displays and Components.

Now, before one looks into the pros and cons of this technique, there is need to know the other molding techniques. For example, there is the Blow (which is basically putting injection and extrusion techniques together), Gas Assist, Rotational and Injection molding techniques. Other popular processes include thermoforming and Film Insert. Well, every procedure mentioned has its highs and lows. Nonetheless, structural foam is still the popular choice especially where force is not needed to spread the molten polymer.

Obviously, the technique has its own merits and demerits. On the brighter side, the process is cheaper to run. Many also love the method because it uses cheap and light molds (such as the ones made of aluminum). Additionally, it has very low internal stresses compared to Compression molding. Lastly, the technique allows the production of large plastic products.

In most instances, structural foam could go as the cheapest molding option. However, a comparison of the setup costs between this procedure and Compression has shown the latter to be easy to start and finance. For people running on a strict budget, therefore, the former method may not be the best option. Another demerit is that speed of production. It has been found that the technique is slower compared to other Injection methods especially that use force to spread the polymer.

Having known the whole process, including its benefits and applications wonderful, what is even better is to learn how to identify the right provider of such services. Now that fake products are sold to unsuspecting customers, the need to know the qualities to look for is necessary. This need is evident in cases where a manufacturer of plastic ware chooses to lower their production quality while overcharging for same.

Though there are many things to look for in a plastic manufacturer, reviews from satisfied customers is the best place to start. Also, ensure the firm is registered that it operates within the local environmental laws. Finally, shop around online to ensure you only contract companies that charge affordably.




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