The Advantages Of Structural Foam Molding Of Plastics

By Gwen Lowe


Plastic was introduced in the 1800s and has since been used to replace metal, concrete, fiberglass and wood in the manufacture of most appliances. For instance, a big number of utensils are no longer made of aluminum or iron but plastic. In other cases, the use of concrete on floors is slowly being replaced by plastic products. People are not surprised anymore to see artistically designed plastic seats in furniture stores. What many do not know is how these chairs (for example) are made. Well, a little introduction to structural foam molding can clear the air.

Briefly, this type of molding refers to the use of an inert gas to produce foam. Once the foaming action is started, molten polymer then flows through the mold to form the required shape. It is an injection molding procedure usually carried out in low-pressure environment to produce high-density polyethylene.

It is true that the technique uses a number of raw materials; however, the Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC), Polystyrene (PS) and Polycarbonate are the most popular. From such materials, products such as Containers Pallets, Point of Sale Components and Displays can be produced. Business Machine Chassis also come from the foam method.

Now, before one looks into the pros and cons of this technique, there is need to know the other molding techniques. For example, there is the Blow (which is basically putting injection and extrusion techniques together), Gas Assist, Rotational and Injection molding techniques. Other popular processes include thermoforming and Film Insert. Well, every procedure mentioned has its highs and lows. Nonetheless, structural foam is still the popular choice especially where force is not needed to spread the molten polymer.

Obviously, the technique has its own merits and demerits. On the brighter side, the process is cheaper to run. Many also love the method because it uses cheap and light molds (such as the ones made of aluminum). Additionally, it has very low internal stresses compared to Compression molding. Lastly, the technique allows the production of large plastic 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.

Learning how to contract a plastic manufacturer is just as important as the description of structural foam technique, its uses and advantages. Now, that the plastic market is full of fake goods, knowing where to buy you products or whom to contract for the same is important. In fact, when a manufacturer decides to charge higher fees for low quality product then taking some precautions is in order.

There are several characteristics that define a credible manufacturer; however, you should need to read what other customers are saying. Also, check if they are legally operating and that they are in conformity with environmental laws in your state. They should also be affordable.




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