Injection molding is a reliable manufacturing process for producing a variety of parts and products, such toys, consumer goods, automotive components, medical devices and more. The process is quite simple, as the melting plastic material is injected into the mold to form a desired shape.
This method is primarily used for high-volume production, but when it comes to small batch runs, the cost of large injection molding becomes a matter of concern. In short, the high initial tooling cost of setting up and producing a mold makes it difficult for small businesses and start-ups to utilize this method.
Understanding the Costs of Large Injection Molding
Several factors, including the size and complexity of the mold, the type of plastic material used and the number of parts being produced, can affect the cost of large injection molding. The initial tooling cost of setting up a mold can be tens of thousands of dollars, making it a huge investment for small batch runs.
Along with that, the cost of materials and labor can also add up quickly. Remember that plastic materials can vary in price depending on the type and quality, and labor costs can also be high due to the time-intensive nature of the injection molding process.
Therefore, to help you with this, we’ll here explore some strategies for minimizing the costs of Large Injection Molding in Small Batch runs. From optimizing the design of your parts to selecting the right materials and implementing lean manufacturing techniques, we’ll provide the right tips and tricks to reduce costs and make the most of your small batch runs.
5 Ways to Minimize Large Injection Molding Costs for Small Batches
1. Optimize Design
One of the most effective ways to reduce the production cost is by optimizing the design of your parts. In simple terms, you need to simplify the design to reduce the number of steps involved in the molding process.
2. Use Multi-cavity Molds for Cost-Efficiency
Multi-cavity molds can also be very useful when it comes to reducing the manufacturing cost of large injection molding for small batch runs. This is because multiple parts can be produced with a single multi-cavity mold, which eventually reduces the per-part cost.
3. Select the Right Materials
This is also important to choose the right plastic material, as it can also have a major impact on the overall production cost. Make sure you are using materials that are cost-effective and also meet the performance requirements for your parts. However, you need to be very careful when making a choice because some plastics are less expensive but may not be suitable for high-stress applications.
4. Utilize Prototyping
This is also a cost-effective solution for minimizing the production costs. Describing in simple terms, testing and refining your design in the prototyping stage can save you from the risk of costly mold revisions, and it also improves the production efficiency.
5. Implement Lean Manufacturing Techniques
It is also a great idea to implement lean manufacturing techniques in order to minimize the costs of large injection molding for small batch runs. Lean manufacturing strategy primarily focuses on reducing waste and maximizing efficiency in production.
Some common lean manufacturing techniques include:
1. Eliminate unnecessary steps and processes
2. Streamline production to reduce waste
3. Implement continuous improvement programs
4. Rely on visual management to track progress and identify areas for improvement
5. Involve employees in the improvement process to drive innovation and engagement.
Outsourcing vs In-house Manufacturing for Small Batch Runs
It’s also crucial to consider the option of outsourcing vs in-house manufacturing for small batch runs. In some cases, outsourcing production to a third-party manufacturer can be a more cost-effective alternative than producing parts in-house.
Though, outsourcing can also present some risks, such as loss of control over the production process, longer lead times and potential quality control issues. So, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons of each option to make the right choice for your business.
Key Takeaways
- Optimize the Design of Your Parts
2. Use Multi-cavity Molds
3. Select the Right Materials
4. Utilize Prototyping
5. Implement Lean Manufacturing Techniques
6. Consider Outsourcing Options
These simple strategies can be very helpful in minimizing the production cost of Large Injection Molding in Small Batch. Connect with experienced engineers of iMold USA, LLC to learn more about how to make the most of injection molding in small batch.
