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Plastic injection molding

Plastic injection molding is the primary process for manufacturing plastic parts used in consumer goods such as computer keyboards, monitors, bottle caps, cups and solid plastic articles. Plastic is known to be a very versatile and economical material that is used in many applications. Injection molding involves taking plastic in the form of pellets or granules and heating this material until a melt is obtained. Then the melt is forced into a split-die chamber/mold where it is allowed to "cool" into the desired shape. The mold is then opened and the part is ejected, at which time the cycle is repeated.

Contributors in Plastic injection molding

Plastic injection molding

Stress-strain curve

Manufacturing; Plastic injection molding

The curve plotting the applied stress on a test specimen versus the corresponding strain. Stress can be applied through shear, compression, flexure, or tension.

Fill pattern

Manufacturing; Plastic injection molding

The contours of the advance of the material as the cavity fills. (See flow pattern)

Underflow

Manufacturing; Plastic injection molding

The dominant flow of two confronting flows, over the other. The lesser flow reverses direction giving poor surface appearance and structural strength. Underflow should be avoided by positioning gates ...

Linear mould shrinkage

Manufacturing; Plastic injection molding

The difference between the size of the part and the size of the mould cavity. Values given are often the average of a range.

Shrinkage allowance

Manufacturing; Plastic injection molding

The dimensional allowance which must be made in moulds to compensate for shrinkage of the plastic compound on cooling.

Cooling time

Manufacturing; Plastic injection molding

The elapsed time required for the melt to reach its Vicat softening temperature.

Screw travel

Manufacturing; Plastic injection molding

The distance the screw travels forward when filling the mould cavity.

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