Choosing the Right Plastic Materials for High-Performance Fabrication Projects

Selecting the right plastic materials is one of the most important decisions in any precision manufacturing project. While design and machining capabilities certainly matter, material selection often determines whether a component delivers long-term performance, dimensional stability, and durability in demanding environments.

From medical devices and semiconductor equipment to laboratory instrumentation and industrial automation, every application has unique requirements. Therefore, working with an experienced fabrication partner like Acrylic Art helps ensure each project begins with the right material and the right manufacturing strategy. With more than 35 years of experience in precision plastic fabrication and CNC machining, Acrylic Art helps customers choose materials that align with performance goals, manufacturing requirements, and production budgets.

Why Material Selection Matters

Not all plastics perform the same under real-world conditions. Some materials excel in high-temperature environments, while others offer exceptional chemical resistance, impact strength, optical clarity, or low-friction performance.

Choosing the wrong material can result in:

  • Premature wear
  • Cracking or deformation
  • Chemical incompatibility
  • Reduced dimensional accuracy
  • Increased maintenance costs

Conversely, selecting the right engineering plastic improves reliability, extends product life, and often lowers total manufacturing costs.

Because every application differs, manufacturers should evaluate both the operating environment and the functional requirements before selecting a material.

Common High-Performance Plastic Materials

Modern fabrication projects rely on a wide variety of engineering plastics. Each material provides unique advantages.

Acrylic

Acrylic remains one of the most popular fabrication materials because of its outstanding optical clarity and attractive finish. It works well for laboratory equipment, protective barriers, displays, viewing windows, and architectural applications.

Additionally, acrylic machines well and can be polished to achieve exceptional transparency.

Polycarbonate

When impact resistance becomes a priority, polycarbonate is often an excellent choice. It combines strength with transparency, making it ideal for machine guards, protective covers, and safety enclosures.

Its durability allows it to perform well in demanding industrial environments.

Delrin (Acetal)

Delrin offers excellent dimensional stability, low moisture absorption, and outstanding machinability.

Engineers frequently select Delrin for precision mechanical components, bushings, gears, manifolds, and fixtures where tight tolerances are essential.

PEEK

PEEK is widely recognized as one of the highest-performing engineering plastics available.

Its exceptional heat resistance, chemical resistance, and mechanical strength make it suitable for aerospace, medical, semiconductor, and scientific applications.

UHMW

Ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene provides outstanding wear resistance and a naturally low coefficient of friction.

Consequently, it performs exceptionally well for guide rails, wear strips, sliding components, and conveyor applications.

PTFE (Teflon)

PTFE offers superior chemical resistance and an extremely low-friction surface.

It is commonly used in seals, fluid handling systems, laboratory equipment, and chemically aggressive environments.

Acrylic Art works with these materials and many others, allowing customers to select plastics based on actual performance requirements rather than simply choosing the most familiar option.

Match the Material to the Application

Material selection should always begin with the intended use of the finished component.

Questions worth considering include:

  • Will the part experience high temperatures?
  • Does it require chemical resistance?
  • Is optical clarity important?
  • Will it experience continuous wear?
  • Does it require tight dimensional tolerances?
  • Is the component supporting structural loads?
  • Will it be used in a cleanroom or medical environment?

Answering these questions early helps eliminate unsuitable materials before production begins.

An experienced fabrication team can also recommend alternatives that improve durability while reducing manufacturing costs.

Precision Fabrication Maximizes Material Performance

Even the highest-quality material cannot compensate for poor manufacturing practices.

High-performance plastics require specialized machining techniques because each material behaves differently during cutting, drilling, milling, polishing, and assembly.

Acrylic Art specializes in close-tolerance plastic fabrication and precision CNC machining. Their experienced team understands how different plastics react during manufacturing, allowing them to maintain accuracy while minimizing stress, heat buildup, and material distortion.

Their capabilities include:

  • Precision CNC machining
  • Cutting and profiling
  • Heat bending
  • Solvent welding
  • Polishing
  • Hardware assembly
  • Design assistance
  • Rapid prototyping
  • Short- and long-run production

Because these services are performed under one roof, customers benefit from greater consistency throughout the manufacturing process.

Industry Experience Makes a Difference

Many fabrication projects involve highly specialized requirements that extend beyond basic machining.

For example, medical devices often require exceptional dimensional accuracy and smooth finishes. Semiconductor applications may demand materials with excellent chemical resistance. Laboratory equipment frequently combines optical clarity with complex machined features.

Acrylic Art serves industries that depend on precision, including:

  • Medical device manufacturing
  • Biotechnology
  • Pharmaceutical manufacturing
  • Semiconductor production
  • Scientific instrumentation
  • Aerospace
  • Industrial manufacturing
  • Retail displays
  • Architectural applications

This broad experience enables their team to recommend practical solutions based on real manufacturing challenges instead of theoretical specifications.

Prototyping Before Full Production

Material selection often becomes easier through prototyping.

Rather than committing immediately to full production, manufacturers can validate designs, evaluate performance, and identify improvements before scaling production.

Acrylic Art provides in-house design support, CAD/CAM assistance, prototype machining, and rapid production capabilities. This collaborative approach helps reduce development risk while allowing customers to optimize both material selection and part design before moving into larger production runs.

Get Expert Guidance for Your Next Fabrication Project

Choosing the right plastic materials for high-performance fabrication projects requires more than reviewing material data sheets. It requires understanding how materials perform during machining, assembly, and long-term use.

Acrylic Art combines decades of fabrication expertise with advanced CNC machining capabilities to help customers make informed material decisions from the earliest stages of development. Whether you need a single prototype or large-scale production, their team can recommend the best material, optimize manufacturability, and deliver precision components that meet demanding specifications.

If you’re planning a high-performance fabrication project, contact Acrylic Art today to discuss your design, evaluate material options, and discover how expert plastic fabrication can help your project succeed.

/by

The Art and Precision of Plastic Fabrication at Acrylic Art

Located in the heart of the San Francisco Bay Area, Acrylic Art has established itself as a leader in plastic fabrication and precision machining. Serving both local and national clients, this Emeryville-based company has built a reputation for excellence, innovation, and unmatched craftsmanship. Whether you are in need of custom plastic parts, intricate designs, or large-scale production, Acrylic Art is your go-to partner for all things plastic.

A Legacy of Excellence in Plastic Fabrication
Acrylic Art has a long-standing history of providing top-tier plastic fabrication services. With a team of skilled artisans and engineers, the company transforms raw plastic materials into precise, high-quality components. From acrylic, polycarbonate, and PETG to other specialty plastics, Acrylic Art works with a variety of materials to meet the diverse needs of its clients.

Custom Solutions Tailored to Your Needs
One of the standout features of Acrylic Art is their ability to provide custom solutions. No two projects are the same, and the team at Acrylic Art understands this. They collaborate closely with clients to understand their specific requirements and deliver tailor-made solutions. Whether it’s a one-of-a-kind display piece, a prototype, or a complex component for industrial use, Acrylic Art’s custom fabrication services ensure that every detail is perfect.

Advanced Techniques and Cutting-Edge Technology
To achieve the highest levels of precision and quality, Acrylic Art utilizes state-of-the-art technology and advanced fabrication techniques. Their facility is equipped with CNC routers, laser cutters, and thermoforming equipment, allowing them to handle even the most intricate designs and tight tolerances. This commitment to technology ensures that Acrylic Art can meet the demanding specifications of clients across various industries.


Precision Machining: Where Art Meets Engineering
In addition to plastic fabrication, Acrylic Art specializes in precision machining. This service is essential for clients who require exact dimensions and flawless finishes. From the medical and aerospace industries to electronics and consumer products, precision machining is a critical component of modern manufacturing.


The Importance of Precision in Modern Manufacturing
Precision machining is not just about cutting and shaping materials; it’s about achieving a level of accuracy that ensures the functionality and reliability of the final product. At Acrylic Art, precision is more than a goal—it’s a standard. Their machining services are designed to produce parts that meet the strictest industry standards, ensuring that each piece performs as expected.

A Commitment to Quality and Consistency
Quality control is at the forefront of Acrylic Art’s operations. Every project undergoes rigorous inspection and testing to ensure it meets the highest standards of quality and consistency. This commitment to excellence has earned Acrylic Art a reputation for reliability and trustworthiness, making them a preferred partner for businesses that cannot afford to compromise on quality.

Serving a Diverse Range of Industries
Acrylic Art’s expertise in plastic fabrication and precision machining makes them a versatile partner for a wide range of industries. Their clients span across various sectors, including:

  • Medical and Healthcare: Custom plastic components for medical devices, protective equipment, and diagnostic tools.
  • Aerospace: High-precision parts for aircraft interiors, instrumentation, and structural components.
  • Retail and Display: Custom displays, signage, and fixtures for retail environments.
  • Electronics: Enclosures, panels, and components for electronic devices.
  • Consumer Products: Durable and aesthetically pleasing parts for consumer goods.

Why Choose Acrylic Art?
Choosing Acrylic Art for your plastic fabrication and precision machining needs comes with numerous benefits:

  • Expertise and Experience: Decades of experience and a team of skilled professionals.
  • Custom Solutions: Tailored services to meet specific project requirements.
  • Advanced Technology: State-of-the-art equipment for precision and quality.
  • Commitment to Quality: Rigorous quality control processes for consistent results.
  • National Reach: Serving clients locally in the Bay Area and across the nation.

Discover the Acrylic Art Difference
Acrylic Art is not just a service provider; they are a partner dedicated to helping you achieve your goals. Their commitment to excellence, innovation, and customer satisfaction sets them apart in the industry. Whether you have a simple project or a complex challenge, Acrylic Art has the expertise and resources to bring your vision to life.

For more information on how Acrylic Art can assist with your plastic fabrication and precision machining needs, contact us today. Let us show you why we are the trusted choice for businesses across the nation.
/by

What You Should Know About Anodizing Aluminum

When using metal components or creating products made from metal, anodizing can be a valuable step in the process, especially with a softer metal like aluminum. The process of anodizing aluminum prevents corrosion, resists scratching, improves aesthetics and creates a more durable product. The following information will help you see the value in completing this process for your metal components.

How Does It Work?

Before anodizing aluminum, the metal is first cleaned to remove any debris on the surface. It is then placed in an electrolytic solution and a positive electric charge is administered directly to the aluminum while a negative charge is sent to plates suspended in the solution. Negative ions are then pulled toward the aluminum.

What Is the Barrier Layer?

During the process in the electrolytic solution, pores on the aluminum open up to let the positive ions out, creating a geometric pattern that erodes into a substrate. The surface of the aluminum bonds with O2 to create aluminum oxide, creating a barrier that protects against corrosion and other chemical reactions. The longer the process continues, the pores extend deeper into the aluminum. Non-hard anodized coatings typically measure about 10 microns. Once the desired depth is reached, a cold water rinse stops the process.

Hard Anodizing

If you need greater corrosion protection for your aluminum, hard anodizing is the right solution. To achieve hard anodizing, a longer barrier process is necessary, often reaching depths of 25 microns or more. While this process takes more time and can be more costly, it provides enhanced durability to the metal.

Is Corrosion Protection Necessary?

Aluminum doesn’t rust, so you may wonder if corrosion resistance is even necessary. The answer is yes. While it can’t rust, aluminum can experience oxidation when exposed to the air. This oxidation is relatively harmless to aluminum, but that’s only when you consider exposure to pure air and water. In the real world, aluminum may be exposed to salt water, acid rain and other contaminants that can have a negative impact on the metal, making corrosion protection a necessity to avoid discoloration or mechanical failure.

Adding Color to Anodized Aluminum

When most people think of anodized aluminum, they think of coloring, which is a common use for the process. Once you have created the pores with the anodizing process, it’s the perfect time to add color to the metal before sealing off the pores with a water rinse. Adding color to aluminum using this process ensures long-lasting color. Because it lies deep within the metal, it won’t scratch off the surface.

Creating the Popular Metallic Look

When you think of something metal, you often think of something shiny. This is the result of the anodizing process. Anodizing is a form of etching that leaves the surface of the metal with a rough texture. Deeper pores mean a rougher texture. The way the light bounces off this surface creates the tell-tale metallic sheen most people recognize.

Use Caution with Your Design

When creating your anodizing bath, it’s important to remember it’s impossible to fully anodize an entire part. After all, the metal must be submerged, yet suspended in the bath, requiring a holder of some form. Any part of the metal concealed by the holder won’t be anodized, so it’s important to position your parts carefully and minimize obstructed areas as much as possible.

/by

Everything You Need to Know About Vapor Polishing

Have you ever wondered how they make super-thin, transparent plastics, like those used for eye contacts? It’s called vapor polishing. This is a technique used to polish or finish a plastic product to achieve transparency. So how exactly does this work? Read on to learn more.

How Does Vapor Polishing Work?

Vapor polishing is a technique that smooths out plastic resin material at the microscopic level to get the desired effect. This is done using a Weldon 4 solvent that reacts with the surface chemistry of polycarbonates. This solvent is heated to boiling and the vapors are sprayed on the plastic. The plastic surface then melts and fills in the small holes and scratches. When the vapor is gone, the plastic once again becomes solid.

Does the Plastic Need to Be Sanded?

Yes. Since vapor polishing works at the molecular level, it can’t take out large deformities in the plastic. For that reason, Acrylic Art will sand your parts before we vapor polish to a surface between 1000 and 1500 grit. From here, the vapor polishing only takes a few seconds before the product is finished.

Can Anyone Perform Vapor Polishing?

No. Vapor polishing should only be performed by a trained professional as the process could be dangerous if you breathe in the vapors In fact, vapor polishing is done in a highly controlled environment where the worker wears a breathing respirator. There are also suited up workers stationed outside the working chamber to offer assistance if needed. For all these reasons, it is advised not to try this on your own.

Does Vapor Polishing Harm the Environment?

No. When vapor polishing is done safely, it is not bad for the environment. Our facility pulls the vapors through a three-stage carbon filter to avoid any contamination to the atmosphere.

How Long Does Vapor Polishing Take?

The lead time on vapor polishing is short. In fact, once the vapor is applied to the plastic, it only takes a few seconds for it to become clear. There is no need for repeated exposure to the surface area. This means a large piece of plastic can be vapor polished in just minutes. After the vapor is taken away, the item becomes hard and is ready for use.

Is Vapor Polishing Cost-Effective?

Yes, especially when compared to hand or machine polishing. Furthermore, it would be impossible to polish by hand those geometric shapes with recesses and pockets. With vapor polishing, however, you can reach the deepest grooves for an even polish. The result is then immediate.

Is Vapor Polishing Right for You?

At Acrylic Art, we are here to help you with any vapor polishing project. We also offer an array of other finishing services. Contact us today to achieve the desired finished project you want. Our friendly team can be reached at 510-654-0953.

 

/by

How the Manufacturing Industry is Changing in 2021

2020 saw a significant amount of change in the manufacturing industry, especially as new technologies emerge and greater tolerances and precision are achieved. But 2021 will see even further evolution of standard manufacturing processes, as well as changes in how the manufacturing industry works. Here are some of the major changes we can expect to see.

1. Even manufacturing is going to go remote.

Because of the pandemic, many jobs are being shifted remotely. Traditionally, manufacturing was an area where everyone needed to be on-site. 2021 is going to see a lot of companies exploring whether they can do their supervision and other administrative tasks remotely.

2. Manufacturing machines are becoming “smarter.”

Machines today are connected to the Internet of Things and are highly automated. This will continue into 2021. Machines are going to be able to operate increasingly autonomously, faster, and cheaper, making for a wealth of new possibilities.

3. A lot of manufacturing has been shut down.

The pandemic caused a massive shake-up in the world of manufacturing. Many manufacturing plants have shut down. Some of them will never open again. Other manufacturing plants are doing better than ever before. In 2021, we will see which manufacturers survived the pandemic, and which were able to become stronger for it.

4. Many companies are shifting toward “local.”

Because of tariffs, taxes, and shipping issues, many companies are starting to become hyper-local. Manufacturing is happening not only within the country, but within the city. Even at a higher cost, it has become faster and more reliable. This may broaden as the effects of the pandemic wane.

5. Digitization is increasing — as is a reliance on the cloud.

There was a time when most manufacturers still wanted to work with primarily analog machines. But that time has passed. Today, many machines are becoming increasingly digital, with an increased reliance upon the cloud. Manufacturers are able to push products directly to machines remotely and are able to track their progress from wherever they are.

6. Rapid prototyping and customization are becoming critical to the industry.

3D printing has shaken the manufacturing industry up. Increasingly, businesses are finding themselves needing to create smaller, customized runs of products rather than larger, generic runs of products. The ability to rapidly prototype products and customize them on-the-fly is going to become increasingly important.

Industries change. It’s up to businesses to assess and evolve with trends. The manufacturing industry in 2021 is going to have an unprecedented about of flexibility, access, and customization. To find out more about plastic fabrication and precision CNC machining, contact the experts at Acrylic Art.

/by

Why You Should Use CNC Machining for Medical Products

CNC machining is a very versatile manufacturing process. It can produce many types of parts, use different materials and produce high volume. And when it comes to manufacturing medical products, CNC machining is fast and inexpensive. Read on to discover all of the benefits of using CNC machining for making medical products.

No Fixed Tooling

Using a mold tool can take an additional 3-4 weeks compared to CNC machining. With a mold tool, you not only have to make the mold, but samples have to be approved and molding parameters have to be optimized. This just adds time and more costs to the process whether it’s a small or big production run. This includes single one-off parts, too. With CNC machining, there is less investment and fast turnaround.

No Volume Limits

Once a digital CAD file has been created, the cutting program gets generated fast. This coding program can be easily utilized to make both multiple parts or a single part. Just push the button. This ability gives an upper edge when making one-off custom parts or single parts. That’s why CNC machining is often used for things like prosthetics and specialized medical parts. Other processes require a minimum order volume, which makes some projects undoable.

Works With Many Materials

CNC machining can work with many different materials, including tools, rigid materials and end-use parts. Other materials that it can work with include engineering-grade plastics, aluminum stainless steel and titanium.

Fast

CNC machining is fast. Going from a digital CAD file to the finished product is quick. It may only take a few hours. This works well in situations where supplies might be needed at a moment’s notice. This has been done for personal protective equipment due to corona. The demand was able to be met with CNC machining.

Portable and Local

Many big industrial machines take up a lot of floor space when manufacturing. CNC machines are smaller and can actually fit right on top of a desktop. Their smaller size and minimum power requirements made it perfect for rural areas and emergencies. CNC machines are also very capable of producing fixtures, simple parts, appliances and other components.

Tight Tolerance

Most advanced medical devices need very tight tolerances. This can easily be accomplished on CNC machines. Its surface finishes need little post-processing. In this manner, CNC machines save both time and money. Medical products must be fit for purpose. Any deviation can result in disaster. CNC machining reduces the risk.

Portable and Flexible

Digital CAD files are both portable and flexible. These attributes allow manufacturing pros, medical specialists and product designers to move digital programs from one location to another location fast and without any problems. This ability delivers specialty solutions and is not dependent on a geographical location.

As you can see, there are many, many benefits of CNC machining for the manufacturing of medical products. And that’s why it’s the first choice for many companies who make medical products. Time is money when it comes to business operations, and CNC machining is a great choice for medical product manufacturers.

 

/by

3 Benefits of Utilizing CNC Machining For Your Production Process

The modern factory was first invented, or at least credited, to the work of Richard Arkwright. Arkwright patented a water frame in 1769 before building the Cromford Mill, one of the first prototype manufacturing facilities as well as the first successful cotton-spinning factory on the planet.

Nearly 200 years after Arkwright would help to pioneer manufacturing warehouses, the world would be introduced to Computer Numerical Control Machining, otherwise known as CNC Machining.

Understanding CNC Machining

CNC Machining is a popular form of manufacturing relied upon for quick, accurate, and high-level material production. The process of CNC machining was brought to fruition by Richard Kegg in 1952 during a project in collaboration with MIT.  Kegg and his team at MIT would work in concert to develop the Cincinnati Milacron Hydrotel, the first of many prominent pieces of CNC Machining technology. Now, decades later, that same model is utilized by manufacturing facilities around the world

CNC Machining can be accomplished in several different ways. With that being said, there are three core types of CNC machining to be made aware of.

  1. CNC Milling – This form of machining was brought to life by Richard Kegg. CNC Milling is a process that involves mounting and mixing with rotational cutting tools. Materials are cut and removed by the rotating tools to craft many shapes at a rapid pace.
  2. CNC Turning – CNC turning is a manufacturing process that involves bars of material held in place by a chuck. This material is turned by the chuck in a rotation whereupon it is fed into the tool until the desired shape has been crafted.
  3. EDM   – Also known as Electrical Discharge Machining, EDM is a type of metal fabrication process that leans on electrical sparks to shape the targeted material. Typically, this involves voltage being released between two electrodes until an electric arc is produced.

3 Key Benefits to CNC Machining

If you are looking for a reason to add CNC machining processes to your manufacturing facility, you can take your pick. CNC machining took hold in the 50s and still exists to this day. There are a variety of reasons that warehouses are continuing to turn to professional CNC machining solutions, including the following three reasons.

  1. Highly Efficient – CNC Machining requires fewer steps in the production process, thus allowing for a quick turnaround on all production processing.
  2. Advanced Software – Put control into the hands of your computer. CNC machines use CAD software that provides a multitude of functions and options that other processes cannot match.
  3. Automated System – Fully automated systems mean that your operators don’t have to expose themselves to the job. Step back and watch over the machine from a safe distance as the process handles itself.

Working with CNC machining processes allows individuals to manipulate a variety of common and popular materials including aluminum, stainless steel, and brass among others.

 

/by

Pros and Cons of Plastic vs. Metal Fabrication

Fabrication entails the process that includes the cut or shape of a material for an end product. Before deciding whether to fabricate using metal or plastic for a job, it’s wise to know the pros and cons of each material. Both materials entail cutting, forming, machining and welding. But, choosing the right fabrication is important for your project. Here’s an outline of some of the pros and cons of both plastic fabrication and metal fabrication to help you in your decision process.

The Pros of Plastic Fabrication

Whether you use nylon, plexiglass or acrylic plastic, there are several advantages. Plastics have a low melting point and are very malleable. With ease, it can be fashioned into complex or simple geometries. It can also be colored before the fabrication process. This eliminates the need for post-treatment methods. Plus, plastic fabrication is fast. It entails quick turnover rates and fast cycle times. Generally, plastic weight less than metals, too. Plastics have a strong chemical resistance. They are less reactive to rusting and oxidation.

The Cons of Plastic Fabrication

One of the downsides to plastic fabrication is that it’s limited to the fabrication of certain parts. It also has limited wear resistance, since it’s vulnerable to acidity and temperatures. Plastic also has a structural weakness. Many plastics are not strong enough for items that require strength, such as heavy equipment.

The Pros of Metal Fabrication

The common metals used for fabrication are steel, copper, iron, aluminum, iron and nickel. Compared to plastics, metals have high heat resistance, more strength, versatility and cost-effectiveness. Generally, metals have a higher melting point and tend to be stronger and more durable than plastics. Plus, they can be fabrication using a wide variety of processes like chipping, casting, welding, soldering and deep drawing.

The Cons of Metal Fabrication

Although metals have advantages to plastics, there is a downside. Metal fabrication comes with high start-up fees, design limitations and secondary operations. Metal tooling costs are more expensive than plastic tooling costs. Due to viscosity, some metals are not well suited for complex shapes. Metal fabrication is likely to need post-fabrication processes. This includes deburring, painting and finishing. All of these processes tally up to more time and money.

You really need to determine the pros and cons of each and decide which is best for your project. Likely, your decision will be based upon available budget, product purpose and product appearance. Just make sure you know all about both types of fabrication before making your decision.

After you decide which is best, then it’s time to choose a forming process. Common applications for forming processes include lathing, drilling, honing, grinding and milling. It’s up to you to determine which is the appropriate forming process.

 

/by

6 Tips To Consider When Purchasing Injection Molds

Injection molds are meant to make manufacturing easier and increase productivity. Of course, that’s only when the right one for each project is purchased. The wrong fit or design can result not only months of lost work and delayed production, but damage to the equipment itself. With this in mind, here are 6 tips you should consider when purchasing injection molds:

1. Timing Depends on the Project

For some projects, a general injection mold will do, and you will not need to plan too far ahead during the design process. But for more creative projects that depend on precision, you will need to start planning the mold design early on in product development. If it is a complete custom design or a rarely-seen one, you will need to allow for more time for both design and approval.

2. Collaboration is Key

The most successful and creative projects are when the part designer, mold fabricator and injection molder are able to communicate efficiently and collaborate. After all, you don’t want to go ahead and approve a mold design only to find out that it cannot be made to specifications or that it won’t actually function as the injection molder needs it to. Though taking the time to communicate every step of the process may feel like it’s taking extra time, it can save you a lot of time (and money) later on.

3. Anticipate Issues

Even the best planning can sometimes end up in errors, but you don’t need to let it take you completely off guard. Plan (set aside extra time and funds) for potential re-cuts, for example. You may need the mold to be adjusted a few times before the plastic portions are brought into the exact range they need to be in. You may even need to resize the design in general at some point.

4. Prepare Your Production Floor Team

Even the most efficient production / shop floor teams will appreciate advance notice for when any new injection molds are going to arrive. They will need time to install the mold where it needs to go and make sure it is connected properly. They will need to check a number of things like lift straps, hot runner and coolant controllers, heater plugs and cables, water manifold ports, fittings, hoses, bolts, and more. This cannot properly be done at the last minute.

5. Standardize Designs that Work for You

Many people wind up needing the same injection mold later on. You can maximize both cost savings and efficiency by making the design standardized. Additionally, standardizing different features like clamp slots and connection locations on different machinery can also save you both time and money (especially if you need to relocate the injection mold later on).

6. Cost Savings May Not Always Be Worth It

Even more basic injection molds require a high degree of craftsmanship and precision. While you may be able to trim costs on many projects by going with cheaper options, it is crucial to really evaluate whether or not you can afford small errors or misalignments on your current one. Even small savings can end up costing you big time down the road if it means having to scrap a ton of used up material or tools and having to spend more on labor costs.

/by

Future of Single Use Packaging In a Post-Pandemic World

The current pandemic has caused dramatic changes in the way we do many things. The same can be said about the way many businesses are dealing with some of the common methods they use each day, including single use packaging. In the past, as recently as 2019, there was a lot of backlash regarding plastic single use packaging. Many companies were looking for alternatives to help save the environment. While this is still an important initiative, the recent pandemic has left all of us thinking about things in a new way. Reusable bags are no longer allowed in stores due to the risk of transmitting the virus and disposable gloves are now a hot commodity, along with hand sanitizer and disinfecting wipes, which are typically housed in plastic containers. Now, it’s more important than ever for companies to look for sustainable options that maintain the need for these types of products to help keep individuals safe and healthy, while still protecting the environment.

Lightweight Containers

In the past, many companies were highly focused on the aesthetics of the packaging they used in an effort to attract consumers to their products over their competitors. However, with the pandemic and the increase in demand for certain products, aesthetics are taking a much lower priority. In fact, it’s best for companies that must use plastic for their containers to choose a more lightweight approach, sacrificing aesthetics for the minimal use of plastics in their packaging. Dispenser designs in particular are changing with a push towards minimal contact and even touchless options for dispensing hand sanitizer and other similar products.

A Longer Shelf Life

Healthy juices are another popular item that is flying off the shelves as individuals seek more ways to stay health and improve their immune system overall. However, with the use of more lightweight containers, these juices may break down more easily, which results in the need to improve their shelf stability and ensure they don’t go bad more quickly. This has led to a push to find ways to create more sustainable bottles that can provide consumers with the products they need without having a negative impact on the environment.

New Recycling Methods

The good news is plastics can typically be recycled, helping reduce the amount of waste that ends up in the landfills and promoting a healthier environment. However, if single use plastic packaging is changing in its construction, this also means new recycling methods must also be developed. In fact, chemical recycling is growing in popularity as a more effective way to recycle many of the single use plastic packages today. If these methods are successful, it will change the way companies and consumers look at plastics in the future.

Although the pandemic has generated a lot of bad news, it has opened an opportunity for plastic producers and those that use these products for their packaging to change the way they do things. This doesn’t mean the end of plastics, but instead creates the chance to look at things from a new perspective to reduce the negative impact on the environment and continue to provide consumers with the products they need, especially those that have found a higher demand amid the pandemic.

/by