Common Plastics and composite fabrication projects we can help with

Plastics can be fabricated using various techniques, each suited to different requirements and applications. Here are some common fabrication techniques for plastics:

1. Injection Molding: Injection molding is one of the most widely used techniques for mass-producing plastic parts. It involves injecting molten plastic material into a mold cavity under high pressure. Once cooled and solidified, the plastic part is ejected from the mold. Injection molding is suitable for producing complex shapes and high-volume production.

2. Extrusion: Extrusion is a process where plastic material is melted and forced through a die to create a continuous profile with a constant cross-section. The resulting plastic profiles can be cut into desired lengths. Extrusion is commonly used for producing plastic pipes, tubes, sheets, and films.

3. Blow Molding: Blow molding is used to create hollow plastic parts, such as bottles, containers, and automotive components. The process starts with a heated plastic tube or parison placed in a mold. Compressed air is then blown into the tube, causing it to expand and take the shape of the mold.

4. Thermoforming: Thermoforming involves heating a plastic sheet until it becomes pliable, then draping it over a mold and using vacuum or pressure to shape it. Once cooled, the plastic sheet retains the shape of the mold. Thermoforming is commonly used for creating packaging trays, disposable cups, automotive interior components, and signage.

5. Rotational Molding: Rotational molding, also known as rotomolding, is a method used for creating large, hollow plastic parts. It involves rotating a mold containing the plastic material in an oven. The heat causes the plastic to melt and coat the inner surface of the mold, resulting in a hollow part with consistent thickness.

6. Vacuum Forming: Vacuum forming is similar to thermoforming but utilizes a vacuum to draw the heated plastic sheet tightly against the mold. It is commonly used for producing products with shallow or moderate depth, such as packaging inserts, point-of-sale displays, and protective covers.

7. CNC Machining: Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machining is a subtractive manufacturing process that can be used with certain plastics. It involves using precision cutting tools controlled by computer programs to shape and form the plastic material. CNC machining is ideal for producing prototypes, small batches, and complex parts with high precision.

8. 3D Printing/Additive Manufacturing: 3D printing, or additive manufacturing, allows for the creation of plastic parts layer by layer from digital models. Various 3D printing technologies, such as Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) and Stereolithography (SLA), can be used with different types of plastics. 3D printing is advantageous for producing complex geometries, customized parts, and prototypes with relatively quick turnaround times.

These are some of the common fabrication techniques used for plastics. The selection of the most suitable method depends on factors such as the desired part geometry, production volume, material properties, cost considerations, and project requirements.