Injection Molding Materials

What are the commonly used injection molding materials

Polyethylene (PE): Polyethylene is a thermoplastic polymer that is widely used in injection molding. It is known for its toughness, flexibility, and chemical resistance, and is often used for packaging, toys, and household products.
Polypropylene (PP): Polypropylene is a versatile thermoplastic polymer that is known for its strength and durability. It is often used for injection molding applications such as automotive parts, packaging, and medical devices.
Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS): ABS is a thermoplastic polymer that is known for its toughness and impact resistance. It is often used for injection molding applications such as automotive parts, toys, and electronics.
Polycarbonate (PC): Polycarbonate is a thermoplastic polymer that is known for its transparency, impact resistance, and heat resistance. It is often used for injection molding applications such as safety glasses, automotive parts, and electronic components.
Nylon (PA): Nylon is a strong and durable thermoplastic polymer that is often used for injection molding applications such as automotive parts, gears, and bearings.
Polyoxymethylene (POM): POM is a thermoplastic polymer that is known for its strength, durability, and low friction. It is often used for injection molding applications such as gears, bearings, and electrical components.
Polystyrene (PS): Polystyrene is a thermoplastic polymer that is known for its clarity and ease of processing. It is often used for injection molding applications such as packaging, disposable cutlery, and toys.
Polyurethane (PU): Polyurethane is a versatile thermoset polymer that is known for its toughness, elasticity, and chemical resistance. It is often used for injection molding applications such as automotive parts, furniture, and footwear.
Polyethylene terephthalate (PET): PET is a thermoplastic polymer that is known for its strength, transparency, and resistance to moisture and chemicals. It is often used for injection molding applications such as beverage bottles, food containers, and textiles.

What are the commonly used materials for injection molds

Steel: Steel is a popular material for injection molds due to its high durability, strength, and resistance to wear and tear. It is often used for high-volume production runs and can withstand high temperatures and pressures during the injection molding process.
Aluminum: Aluminum is a lighter and more cost-effective option than steel, making it a popular choice for low-volume production runs. It has good thermal conductivity and is easy to machine, but it may not be as durable as steel.
Copper alloys: Copper alloys, such as beryllium copper, have good thermal conductivity and are excellent at dissipating heat. They are often used for molds that require rapid cooling or for parts with thin walls.
Tooling board: Tooling board is a type of composite material that is used for low-volume production runs or prototyping. It is easy to machine and has good dimensional stability, but it may not be as durable as metal molds.
Ceramic: Ceramic molds are commonly used for high-temperature applications or for molding abrasive materials. They have good thermal stability and wear resistance, but they may be brittle and prone to cracking.