Low-Volume Rapid Injection Molding With 3D Printed Molds

Learn methods and guidelines for using stereolithography (SLA) 3D printed molds in the injection molding process to lower costs and lead time. Discover how this hybrid manufacturing process enables on-demand mold fabrication to quickly produce small batches of thermoplastic parts.

This white paper provides methods and guidelines for using stereolithography (SLA) 3D printed molds in the injection molding process to lower costs and lead time. Through the real-life case studies with Braskem, Holimaker, and Novus Applications, you’ll learn how this hybrid manufacturing process enables on-demand mold fabrication to quickly produce small batches of thermoplastic parts.

Introduction

Injection molding is one of the leading processes for manufacturing plastics. It is widely used for mass-producing identical parts with tight tolerances. It is a cost-effective and extremely repeatable technology that yields high-quality parts for large series. It can produce volumes from 1,000 to 100,000+ of parts at very low unit costs. Injection molding has a short cycle time, with each machine capable of building new parts every 15 to 60 seconds. It is a fast, intensive process where high heat and pressure are involved to melt thermoplastic and force it inside a mold.

Your download is sponsored by Formlabs.