The Advantages Of Structural Foam Molding Of Plastics

Since its introduction in the mid 19th century, plastic has been used as a substitute of wood, concrete, fiberglass and metals in many instances. For example, hundreds of kitchenware are made of plastic instead of the traditional metals like iron or aluminum. In fact, there are floors made of plastic as opposed to concrete. It is also not strange to see several plastic chair designs in the market today. So, the question is how do they make some of these chair designs? To answer that, you must understand structural foam molding.

In brief, this is the process where inactive gas is mixed with plastic to produce foam. This is then allowed to flow throughout the mold to produce the desired product. Interestingly, the procedure does not require high pressure or force, but works in an environment with low pressure to give high-density polyethylene.

While the technique can use dozens of materials, Polycarbonate (PC), Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) and Polystyrene (PS) are among the most common. Examples of products produced from this method include Point of Sale Display, Components, and Containers Pallets. Other products include Business Machine Housings among others.

Prior to examining the advantages of foam molding, it is important that you know the other popular molding methods. Primarily, there are Gas Assist, Injection, Rotational and Blow (that employs both the extrusion and injection techniques in a single procedure) techniques. On the other hand are the Film Insert as well as thermoforming methods. It is important to note that each technique has an advantage over the other depending on the product. However, the foam molding method is the best in low-pressure surroundings.

That the technique has its positives and negatives is non-debatable. On the merits, it is not expensive to set up. In fact, it uses inexpensive molds (e. G. The aluminum molds). On the other hand, the process has the least internal stresses as opposed to Compression. It also allows the production of bigger products.

Granted, structural foam method can be cheaper than most molding techniques. When it is compared to procedures such as Compression, it may end up more expensive to start and run. So, it would not be the top choice if you do not have enough money. The other shortcoming is in regard to speed, the process is slower compared to other injection techniques, especially those employing pressure.

After defining structural foam and looking at its application and benefits, the focus should be on how to contract a plastic molding firm. Examining some of the qualities of a credible company is of great benefit considering the fact that the market has counterfeit goods. In worst cases, even manufactures may turn out to be unscrupulous thus underscoring the need for caution.

While you are supposed to look for a number of things in a company, it is easier to begin with the testimonials. You then need to verify if the manufacturer is fully registered and follows the environmental legislation in your area. Last but not least, check their rates and only buy from the most affordable firm.