We frequently find ourselves working on projects that involve multiple injection molded components and materials that can range from a variety of plastics to metals like steel or titanium. It’s not unusual for one finished product to require multiple processes.
In the past, this was handled by taking on additional secondary services or more complex assemblies to create the finished part. But today overmolding and its counterpart, insert injection molding, have in large part erased these additional requirements, making it easier, faster, and cheaper to complete finished complex finished products.
How do these techniques work? And which is a better option for you? Here we outline the ways in which these processes differ to help you make decisions for your unique applications.
Overmolding:
OE’s overmolding is a process that allows us to injection mold over another substance. This allows us to add what’s known as “soft-touch”. Soft-touch is often needed to add a comfortable way to handle or grip a product. Overmolding can be also be used for parts requiring two or more injection molds.
Insert Injection Molding:
Insert injection molding utilizes a technique that includes an insert, which is placed into the injection mold prior to molding, and then melted plastic material is then injected into the mold to fill the cavity and mold around the inserted component. Insert molding can often result in stronger, more lightweight products since the insert helps add stability and strength without the need for multiple parts.
Both of these techniques can benefit your products. Either can be used to combine various components into a single finished product that can equate to a great reduction in production time as well as offer improved part performance and, most importantly, increase flexibility in product design. Which process is best for your application, whether it’s a medical, diagnostic equipment component or Aerospace assembly, can be determined by one of OE’s skilled staff members.
