jeudi 27 mars 2014

How Structural Foam Molding Is Done

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.

While the technique can use dozens of materials, Polycarbonate (PC), Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) and Polystyrene (PS) are among the most common. Examples of products produced from this method include Point of Sale Display, Components, and Containers Pallets. Other products include Business Machine Housings among others.

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.

As expected, the technique has its highs and lows. For instance, many love it because it is cheaper to set up. The fact that you could use low-priced and light molds (e. G. Aluminum) has only served to popularize this technique. In addition, structural foam has lower inner stresses as compare to other methods like Compression. Finally yet importantly, the method can produce some of the largest plastic products.

In most instances, structural foam could go as the cheapest molding option. However, a comparison of the setup costs between this procedure and Compression has shown the latter to be easy to start and finance. For people running on a strict budget, therefore, the former method may not be the best option. Another demerit is that speed of production. It has been found that the technique is slower compared to other Injection methods especially that use force to spread the polymer.

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.

While you are supposed to look for a number of things in a company, it is easier to begin with the testimonials. You then need to verify if the manufacturer is fully registered and follows the environmental legislation in your area. Last but not least, check their rates and only buy from the most affordable firm.




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