Insert Molding

Layana Plastics is a custom insert molder with expertise in custom insert molding and custom insert molded plastics

Layana Plastics has many years of experience as a custom plastic insert molder.

Plastic injection insert molding is a plastic injection molding process in which thermoplastic material is molded around an insert piece or pieces placed in the plastic injection molding cavity, resulting in a single strongly bonded, integrated assembly, with the insert or inserts encapsulated by the plastic. Inserts can be metal, another plastic, ceramic or just about any substance that can withstand the plastic injection molding process.

Some of the first insert molding applications were for placing threaded inserts into molded parts and encapsulating wire plug connections on electrical cords. Current custom insert molding applications are wide ranging with few limitations on material combinations, including:

• Medical devices and instruments, such as needle hubs and tube valves
• Knobs for appliances, controls and assemblies
• Encapsulated electronic devices and electrical components
• Military equipment
• Threaded fasteners
• Encapsulated bushings, tubes, studs, and posted

Plastic injection insert molding is an effective alternative to assemblies manufactured using soldering, adhesives or fasteners, with benefits including:

• Reduced assembly and labor costs
  Molded as one assembly
• Reduced size and weight
  Insert molding allows for reduction of part size and weight because parts are joined with strong, light weight plastic resin and fasters or connectors are eliminated.
• Improved component reliability
  Insert molding of components ensures proper alignment, prevents loosening and the plastic resin can provide improved resistance to vibration and shock
• Improved part strength and structure
  Insert molding combines the physical strength of the plastic resin and insert to produce one seamless plastic part
• Enhanced design flexibility
  Custom plastic insert molding allows for almost unlimited configurations and material combinations
• Consolidation of components
  Insert molded components enable part and inventory cost reductions

Another application of the plastic injection insert molding technology is in-mold decorating and in-mold labeling, in which decorated or printed film is inserted into the mold cavity and the plastic resin injected against the film, resulting in a labeled or decorated part that is durable and cost effective.

Proper mold design and construction are critically important in insert molding to maintain part tolerances and tooling reliability. Layana Plastics often employs automation in the insert molding process for fast and precise placement of inserts.

From concept to delivery, learn more about the competitive advantage Layana Plastics provides OEMs with custom plastic injection molding and insert molding, through early supplier involvement in the design and engineering phase, design for manufacturability, project management, in house mold building, material selection support and via our global locations.

Contact Layana Plastics today to start a conversation about your custom insert molded plastic needs, or to review your current components and assemblies to see if custom insert molding can give you a competitive advantage!