SILICONE INSERT MOLDING

Silicone insert molding is a process in which a pre-made insert made different from thermoplastic plastics is placed in a mold, and then silicone is injected into it. Once the molding is opened, the cooled and hardened silicone is fused to the insert, creating a single, integrated product.

HOW DOES Silicone Insert Molding Work?

1

To begin, customize the mold to accommodate the silicone insert. The silicone mold inserts can be placed by hand or by an automated process.

2

Next, inject the melted plastic into the mold cavity.

3

After cooling and solidifying, the plastic is combined with the silicone insert.

4

Open the mold and remove the part.

5

Separate the part from the sprue and post processing.

MATERIALS OPTION OF Silicone Insert Molding

Because of the pressure and heat from the injection process, the silicone mold inserts may become distorted, resulting in an uneven appearance of the product. To avoid this, it is important for the melting temperature of the injection molding plastic to be lower than that of the silicone mold inserts in order to prevent the creation of sol during the molding process. For this reason, TPE is usually chosen as the injection molding material.

1. In terms of hardness, silicone usually falls between 0A and 70A, while TPE typically falls between 0A and 100A. Therefore, TPE is generally softer than silicone, and silicone has a more stronger shaping ability.

2. Silicone is better than TPE in terms of high-temperature resistance. Silicone can usually withstand temperatures between 200 and 300 degrees, while TPE can theoretically handle temperatures between 130 and 150 degrees.

EXPLAIN ADVANTAGES OF

Silicone Insert Molding

Improve cost-effectiveness: Molded inserts directly into products can eliminate the need for additional post-production steps, ultimately reducing production time and costs.

Enhance strength: The insert molding process can produce a plastic part that is molded as a single piece and typically possesses greater durability and strength compared to a product that is assembled through secondary means.

Two decades of focus, fueled by a passion for progress. For nearly 20 years, CN Mould & Plastics has honed its expertise in China injection mold and molding production. But we don't rest on our laurels. We constantly explore and implement solutions that boost efficiency and productivity, pushing the boundaries of what's possible.