Custom Injection Moulding for Mining: How It Works
by admin-ha
Many of the plastic components on mining equipment, from drilling segments to clips, covers and spacers, are made by injection moulding. For mining operations and equipment manufacturers, custom injection moulding in Australia offers consistent, cost-effective parts at almost any volume.
What Is Injection Moulding?
Injection moulding melts plastic pellets and injects the molten material under pressure into a precision mould (the tool). The plastic cools and solidifies into the shape of the cavity, and the finished part is ejected. The cycle repeats, producing identical parts quickly.
The Custom Injection Moulding Process
1. Part design and review
We review the part design, or a sample of the existing part, for strength, fit and mouldability.
2. Material selection
The right engineering thermoplastic is chosen for wear, impact, temperature and chemical exposure.
3. Tool design and manufacture
A mould is designed and made to produce the part accurately and efficiently.
4. Sampling and approval
First-off samples are checked for fit and function before production begins. Read more in from prototype to production.
5. Production
Parts are produced in the required volume with ongoing quality checks.
Benefits of Injection-Moulded Mining Parts
- Highly consistent parts batch after batch
- Low cost per part at volume
- Complex shapes in a single part
- Wide choice of tough engineering materials
- Option to combine plastic with metal inserts. See plastic and metal assemblies
Is Injection Moulding Right for Your Part?
Injection moulding is best for parts needed in repeat quantities. Tooling is an upfront investment, so it suits parts you will reorder. For one-off parts, machining or urethane casting may be more economical.
Our In-House Injection Moulding
Mining Parts Australia has more than 20 years of in-house injection moulding experience on the Gold Coast, with production runs from a few hundred to millions of units. Examples include our plastic drilling segments. Learn about our manufacturing services.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is injection moulding used for in mining?
It is used to make plastic components such as drilling segments, covers, clips, spacers and wear parts that need to be consistent and cost effective.
What is the minimum order for injection moulded parts?
It depends on the part and tooling. Our production runs range from a few hundred to millions of units.
How long does it take to get custom injection moulded parts?
Timing depends on part complexity and tool manufacture. Once the tool is approved, production can be scheduled quickly for repeat orders.
Do you do injection moulding in Australia?
Yes. Mining Parts Australia carries out injection moulding in-house on the Gold Coast, Queensland.
Talk to Mining Parts Australia
Send us a part number, photo or description and our team will source it for you. Browse the product list, explore our services or contact us on (07) 5535 2228. For the bigger picture, read our complete guide to mining parts in Australia.
Posted in Custom Manufacturing