Polypropylene injection molding is a widely popular production method that spreads in almost all industries. Whether you are an entrepreneur or you run an established business, polypropylene injection molding is one of the most cost-effective and most versatile ways to bring a physical product to life. If you are unfamiliar with the PP injection molding, you will find this mini-guide quite helpful and practical.
Common PP Applications
Thanks to its versatility, polypropylene is suitable for various applications of all sizes and almost any given industry. However, its primary use is for applications with the following characteristics:
- When high tensile strength is needed: PP has a specific molecular structure that makes it suitable for high-impact applications. Plus, it has excellent shatter resistance.
- When moisture resistance is an important part of the application: That makes PP an excellent choice for outdoor applications or even when submerged in some liquid.
- When cost is a factor: PP is quite affordable when compared to other materials. The combination of versatility and price is unmatched.
- When low friction is an important requirement: Its “slippery” structure makes it applicable in many specialized processes.
- When chemical resistance is a factor: PP has an excellent molecular structure that makes it resistant to a broad range of chemicals.
Common Products Made With PP
PP’s unique features make it well-suited for all sorts of products. The living hinge is one example of how to leverage PP’s versatility. PP’s ability to bend over and over, as well as its excellent flexibility, make it the perfect material for a living hinge. In addition to that, polypropylene is also commonly used for beakers, test tubes, pallets, pipes, etc.
Why do innovators and product makers love pp injection molding?
Entrepreneurs, innovators, product designers, small business, startups, they all love polypropylene injection molding. So yes, they love it because of its versatility and its low cost, but that’s not all. Here is a list of few more reasons why PP injection molding is so popular despite the rise of 3D printing.
- Fast Production
PP injection molding is a very efficient process in which a big number of products can be created per hour. Speed is determined by the size of the mold, as well as its complexity.
- Consistent Quality
PP injection molding is a repeatable process in which thousands of identical parts can be produced. This is extremely important when trying to produce high precision materials in large quantities.
- Excellent Color Control
Thanks to compounding and masterbatches, parts can be colored in any possible color.
- Additional Strength by Adding Fillers
This is possible while the plastic is molded and can significantly increase the strength of the given part.
- Low Scrap Rates
PP injection molding doesn’t leave huge amounts of waste plastic. Plus, any leftover scrap can be easily regrounded and recycled.
In Conclusion
Polypropylene injection molding is an excellent process, and that’s a fact! The only real downside is the high tooling cost. But even with that, not many production processes can deliver the same results as PP injection molding.
