Techniques for moulding plastics

Plastic molding techniques: everything you need to know

Plastics are polymers that can be molded into a variety of shapes and sizes using specific molding processes. They can be subjected to various types of processing to produce a wide range of products, from simple plastic bottles to complex parts of cars, up to plastic accessories more minutes. In general, the molding processes can be divided into four main phases – plastic forming, cooling, part removal and finishing – but the phases can vary according to specific processes and production needs.

Let’s see together what are the most common plastic molding techniques and their main characteristics.

Plastic molding techniques: what are the main ones?

Plastic molding can be defined as the set of processes and technologies that, thanks to the use of a special mold, allow the production of parts and components made of polymeric material. The molding techniques differ according to the characteristics of the material to be processed and the result to be obtained. The most commonly used techniques are:

• injection molding, which involves heating and subsequent melting of the plastic material, which is then inserted at high pressure inside a closed mold. Once the material has solidified, the mold can be opened and the finished product can be extracted. This molding technique is performed via an injection molding machine. The plastic is processed with very high temperature and pressure levels in order to ensure a greater smoothness of the material inside the mold;
• compression molding, made with a special press on which an aluminum or steel mold is fixed. This molding technique is made by vulcanizing the rubber and is useful for a wide range of applications because it allows to incorporate inserts of various types in the products. Also in this case the process takes place at elevated temperature and pressure;
• blow molding, mainly used for making hollow shaped items, such as bottles, bottles or containers. In blow molding, the plastic material, in the form of granules, is heated to become a pasty compound and then closed in a specific mold to make it take on the final shape. At this stage, air is blown which allows the plastic material to inflate, adhering perfectly to the walls of the mold. Once cooled, the piece is removed from the mold and is ready to be delivered to the customer or be subjected to subsequent processing;
• thermoforming, a particular technique for molding plastics by means of a special thermoforming machine. Pressure plates or vacuum plates can be used to complete the process. This molding technique is often used for the production of blisters, trays and containers for food or panels in the automotive sector;
• rotomolding, a printing technique mainly used for the production of hollow and large plastic products (vases, furniture, bins). The plastic is inserted into a mold and then rotated on two axes, so that the plastic adheres to the walls. At this point the product can be cooled and then extracted.

Plastics molding for third parties: the services offered by Beschi

Beschi has a long experience in the production of plastic accessories for the textile industry and specializes in plastic molding. Thanks to the continuous research of avant-garde solutions and to an adequately equipped press park, it is able to ensure an efficient service of plastic molding for third parties, addressed to all companies that need to make customized plastic parts or parts. The company is also able to provide a tailor-made mold design and production service, ensuring the creation of high quality products and durability over time. The goal is to better meet the demands of each customer, which is followed at every stage of the production process, from the design to the realization of the finished product.