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Precision Plastic Injection Molders

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The Effects of Hydrocarbon Restrictions on Plastic Injection Molding

Azovstal industrial sector in Mariupol, Ukraine before the war.

With the new year, it’s important to look back on the shortages of last year, their sources, and what they mean for 2023. While these last few years we’ve felt numerous shortages due to the pandemic and labor shortages, in 2022 we saw a new one with the outbreak of war between Russia and Ukraine causing a shakeup of hydrocarbon restrictions—specifically natural gas and other derived chemicals—through both sanctions and the ripple effects of the conflict.

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3 Tips for Overcoming the Limitations of Plastic Injection Molding

Every modern manufacturing method has its strengths and its weaknesses. 3D printing may be fast and relatively cheap, making it great for prototyping, but it cannot be scaled up for mass production. CNC milling can produce complex parts out of very hard materials but at a high cost. There are limitations of plastic injection molding as well, but there are also ways to offset many of these weaknesses with a little foresight, especially when working with the right vendor early in the process. Learn our top three tips for getting your parts made with injection molding the right way.

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Traits of a Good Sustainability Partner in Injection Molding

Increasingly around the world – especially in the west and the United States in particular – is a push from consumers, employees, and regulatory agencies to increase sustainability in companies. From green power and carbon offsets to making greener products, it’s something everyone is searching for – especially when working with plastic injection molded parts. Learn what to look for when finding your sustainability partner in injection molding, including how being more sustainable comes in many shapes and forms.

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How to Prevent Sink Marks in Plastic Injection Molding

Close-up of an plastic injection molding machine.

The goal of every plastic injection mold and parts manufacturer is to have each mold and part come out without issue or defect. However, like with all manufacturing processes, these flaws can be introduced due to a myriad of situations. Today, we’re looking at a common issue with plastic injection molding known as sink marks – or sometimes just “sinks” – that often can show underlying issues with the mold and polymers of the product. In this blog, we’re going to review the sink defect, its causes and solutions, and how to avoid it in the first place.

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Top 3 Industries That Best Utilize Plastic Injection Molding

Truck being loaded by a forklift at a cargo dock.

Plastic injection molding touches on a wide array of industries – after all, if you have a need for polymer parts for your projects and customers, injection molding is one of the best options. However, there are certain industries that have special requirements and, when partnered with the right manufacturer, can best utilize plastic injection molding to not only meet the requirements of their industry but exceed them – especially important in an era of logistical shortages.

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Thermoplastic Highlight: Polypropylene in Plastic Injection Molding

A close-up of a plumbers hands installing red and blue insulated polypropylene pipes.

Plastic injection molding offers a wide variety of resins providing all sorts of unique characteristics. But polypropylene is one of the most popular material choices for businesses looking to create tough and flexible parts. The customizability, easy processing traits, and affordability of this plastic allow it to be used in many diverse applications. If you’re wondering whether you should consider this material for your next project, we’re here to help by providing the benefits, types, and applications of polypropylene in plastic injection molding.

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