High-volume production of precision plastic parts. From prototype tooling to full-scale manufacturing with multi-cavity molds, insert molding, and overmolding.
Injection molding is a manufacturing process where molten plastic is injected into a steel or aluminum mold cavity under high pressure. Once cooled and solidified, the part is ejected. It is the most cost-effective process for producing plastic parts at medium to high volumes, offering exceptional repeatability and surface finish.
Moldkey connects buyers with experienced injection molding suppliers across China who specialize in automotive, medical, consumer electronics, and industrial components. Whether you need a single-cavity prototype mold or a 32-cavity production tool, we have the supplier network.
| Parameter | Standard | Precision |
|---|---|---|
| Clamping Force | 80–1,600 tons | Up to 3,000 tons |
| Part Weight | 1 g – 2,000 g | Up to 20,000 g (large parts) |
| Max Part Dimensions | 800 × 600 × 400 mm | Up to 2,000 mm |
| Tolerance (plastic) | ±0.10 mm | ±0.02 mm |
| Surface Finish | SPI-C1 (VDI 30) | SPI-A1 (mirror polish) |
| Typical MOQ | 500–5,000 pcs | As low as 100 pcs (prototype mold) |
| Mold Lifespan (steel) | 500,000 – 1,000,000 shots | Up to 3,000,000 shots |
| Lead Time (mold) | 25–40 business days | 15–20 days (expedited) |
Traditional thermoplastic molding for a wide range of part geometries. Most common and cost-effective.
Metal or plastic inserts placed in the mold before injection for threaded inserts, connectors, and reinforcement.
Two-material molding for soft-touch grips, seals, and multi-color parts. Requires specialized tooling.
Nitrogen gas injected into the melt for hollow sections, reducing weight and warpage on large parts.
Sequential injection of two materials on a rotary platen. Ideal for multi-material parts without secondary assembly.
Ultra-precision molding for sub-gram parts used in medical devices, electronics, and micro-optics.
| Category | Materials | Typical Applications |
|---|---|---|
| Commodity | ABS, PP, PE, PS, PVC | Consumer goods, packaging, toys, housings |
| Engineering | PC, Nylon (PA6, PA66), POM, PMMA | Automotive, electronics, structural parts |
| High-Performance | PEEK, PEI (Ultem), LCP, PTFE | Aerospace, medical implants, high-temp |
| Elastomers | TPU, TPE, Silicone (LSR) | Gaskets, seals, soft-touch surfaces |
| Filled / Reinforced | Glass-filled Nylon, Carbon-filled PC | High-strength brackets, structural components |
Interior trims, dashboard components, connectors, under-hood parts.
Syringes, IV components, diagnostic cassettes, surgical handles.
Phone cases, connectors, switches, LED lenses, battery housings.
Kitchen appliances, power tool housings, furniture parts, sport equipment.
Gears, pulleys, valves, pipe fittings, pump housings.
Thin-wall containers, caps & closures, preforms for blow molding.
| ✅ Advantages | ⚠️ Limitations |
|---|---|
| Lowest per-unit cost at scale | High initial mold tooling investment |
| Excellent repeatability across millions of parts | Not economical for very low volumes (under 500 pcs) |
| Complex geometries possible (threads, undercuts, inserts) | Design changes after tooling = expensive mold modifications |
| Wide range of materials with tailored properties | Lead time for mold fabrication: 3–8 weeks minimum |
| Minimal post-processing required | Draft angles required for ejection |
Cost has two parts: mold tooling ($2,000–$50,000+ depending on complexity) and per-part price ($0.05–$5.00 depending on material and volume). Use AI Quote for an estimate or post an RFQ.
Typical MOQ is 500–5,000 pcs for production molds. Prototype molds can go as low as 100–200 pcs.
Standard mold fabrication: 25–40 business days. Prototype molds (aluminum): 15–20 days. Expedited: 10–15 days.
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