# Precision Molded Plastics, Inc.
> Precision Molded Plastics provides custom tooling and medium- to high-volume plastic injection molding from its Southern California facility.
Precision Molded Plastics, Inc. is a vertically integrated plastic injection molding manufacturer in Upland, California. Founded in 1979, it builds custom molds and tooling and produces small to midsize parts for medium- to high-volume programs with a 10,000-unit annual minimum. Services include design and engineering support, insert molding, overmolding, decorating, machining, assembly, packaging, and mold transfers. Its quality management system is certified to ISO 9001:2015.
- Brand: Precision Molded Plastics, Inc., Precision Molded Plastics Inc, Precision Molded Plastics, PMP, Plastics Made Perfect, Plastics Made Perfect™, precisionmoldedplastics.com
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# Reverse Injection Mold
Source: https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/blog/reverse-injection-mold.md
**INTRODUCTION
**
When discussing plastic injection mold construction, people sometimes refer to a “reverse mold.” What exactly does that mean, and how is a reverse mold different from a standard injection mold? Also, why would someone build a reverse mold? What are the benefits and drawbacks of them? Here’s a quick summary of the analysis.
**STANDARD TOOLING
**
In most plastic injection molds, the cavity side of the mold is clamped to the fixed platen of the injection molding machine, and the core side of the mold is clamped to the movable platen of the machine. Just to clarify, a platen is a heavy steel plate. Additionally, using an electrical analogy, the cavity of a mold would be the socket, and the core would be the plug.
During the molding process, thermoplastic pellets are fed into the machine and heated until they reach a liquid state. Then the liquid molten plastic is injected into the closed mold from the fixed platen (cavity) side through a gate into the outer cosmetic surface of the part, which usually is facing the fixed platen (cavity) side. As the plastic cools, it shrinks away from the cavity (the outer cosmetic surface of the part) and around the core. When cooling, all plastics experience volumetric contraction or shrinkage (i.e., a reduction in size), and different resins shrink at different rates.
After the part cools, the movable platen (core side) with the part attached moves away from the fixed platen (cavity side), and the part is ejected off the core side of the mold, often by pins, which are mechanically actuated via a servo motor or hydraulic cylinder. Ejector pins leave marks on warm parts, so they typically are located on the non-cosmetic back or inside of the part. Thus, the gate remnant or vestige will be on the outer cosmetic surface of the part, and the ejector pins marks will be on the non-cosmetic back or inside of the part.
**REVERSE MOLD
**
Reversing the layout of an injection mold generally happens when there are no good options for locating a gate on the outer cosmetic surface of the part. In this situation, the cavity side of the mold (the outer cosmetic surface of the part) is clamped to the movable platen of the molding machine, and the core side of the mold is clamped to the fixed platen.
Here, liquid molten plastic is injected into the closed mold from the fixed platen (core) side through a gate into the non-cosmetic back or inside of the part. After the part cools and shrinks, the movable platen (cavity side) moves away from the fixed platen (core side), which has the part on it.
The core side of the mold (that’s clamped to the fixed platen) must have pins to eject the part off the core. With a reverse mold, a shoulder bolt connects the mobile half of the mold (in this case, the cavity side) either to an ejector pin or stripper plate on the stationary side. As the mold opens to a predetermined distance, the shoulder bolts engage and cause the pins or plate to move forward, thereby ejecting the part off the core.
**CONSIDERATIONS
**
If a reverse mold construction results in a part that has both the gate vestige and the ejector pin marks located on the non-cosmetic back or inside of the part, why is this method not used more frequently? Essentially, as may be obvious from the above descriptions, the issue is with part ejection.
With a standard mold construction, ejection is performed by independently-moving pins, sleeves or other components. Because ejection is separate from the movement of the mold and machine, what’s referred to as a “double knock-out” can be used (when needed), which is where the pins push twice on parts to ensure ejection. This need can arise when certain component geometries result in parts hanging on ejector pins and only being displaced when the pins retract back into the mold. However, with a reverse mold, ejection becomes inertia-dependent, and only one push on the parts is possible. As such, the opening of the mold often needs to be faster and performed with more force, which can end up breaking shoulder bolts and putting undue stress on the mold and machine over time.
**CONCLUSION
**
Most conventional plastic injection molds create parts with ejector pin marks on the non-cosmetic back or inside of the component and gate vestiges on the outer cosmetic surface of the part, whereas reverse molds make parts with both ejector marks and gate remnants on the non-cosmetic back or inside. Reverse molds generally are built when there are limited options for gating a part on its outer cosmetic surface. Although reverse molds do provide the benefit of an aesthetically pleasing component, part ejection is achieved by and dependent on the force associated with the mold being opened by the machine, which often must be increased to achieve proper, efficient and repeatable part ejection. This increases the stress on the tooling and on the press, resulting in greater wear and tear on both, which of course is undesirable.
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# Top 20 Things to Look for in a Plastic Injection Molding Supplier (Part 3 of 4)
Source: https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/blog/evaluating-molders-3.md
**Part 3 of 4**
Here are five more features of a potential molding partner to include in your research and analysis.
**11. Standards & Certifications**
Your company may have certain certifications its suppliers are required to have, so the molder obviously will need to have those. However, even if you don’t require anything specific, working with a supplier who maintains certifications or registrations with outside organizations and/or governmental agencies generally is a good idea, assuming you want to enter a relationship with a high-quality vendor.
Obtaining and maintaining certifications is no small feat so, presumably, the supplier earned whatever qualifications they have. Additionally, it is an indication the molder adheres to the applicable standards, because it undergoes audits conducted by objective third parties, in addition to internal reviews performed by its own staff. Quality certifications and standards, like those published by ISO, are the most common in manufacturing and can be general or specialized to a specific industry. Government agencies, most industries, and many trade associations have standards related to their respective fields, too.
**12. Stability**
If you are researching potential plastic suppliers, you are probably spending quite a bit of time and effort doing so. That’s because you want to make the best choice possible. Choosing an injection molding supplier is an important decision, because your company is entering into a potentially long-term relationship, not just a single transaction. Accordingly, one of the items to consider is the stability of the business.
Stability of a molder (or lack thereof) can manifest itself in many different areas. To begin with, how long have they been in business? It takes a lot for a company to remain in operation over a significant period of time. So, if they have been around for a while, they’re probably doing something right. Additionally, when you visit the plant (which you should), are the facilities clean, quiet and controlled? As Peter Drucker said, a dramatic factory is poorly managed. Also, what’s the general tone and demeanor of the molder’s staff? That question segues us nicely into the next item.
**13. The Human Element**
While, of course, this is a business-related subject and has to do with a business-to-business relationship, never underestimate the importance of people. Because, after all, most things basically boil down to people working together (i.e., human relationships). Assuming that’s true, what type of people own, manage and work for the molder? Are they friendly, helpful and accommodating? Are they authentic, empathic and ethical (as far as you can tell)?
These individuals will be the ones to receive and process your orders, to answer your calls and emails, to explain the causes of and solutions to any issues, to provide technical support, and to produce, package and ship your parts. They will make decisions that affect your program. Seeing as you’re entering into a long-term relationship with these people, do what you can to ensure they have the character and competence to handle your work properly.
**14. Equipment & Resources**
Although you may not need to get all the details regarding the molder’s equipment, obtaining some basic information can be insightful. Both quantity and quality are relevant here. For example, how many molding machines to they have, and how old are they? Also, what is their current workload capacity? What kind of quality inspection equipment to they use? Are they modern, digital vision instruments? If they have an in-house tooling department, what kind of equipment does it have? Additionally, is their equipment serviced and calibrated on a regular basis? Further, does the molder’s equipment look relatively new, clean, and well maintained?
**15. Warranty/Guarantee**
If the supplier is building tooling for your company, what kind of warranty or guarantee comes with it? Some mold builders don’t want to give any warranty, using a “we don’t know how you’re going to use it” type of argument. However, the same can be said for cars or any number of other products being sold in the world, so that mindset should raise some red flags. At the bare minimum, most goods sold in the US have implied warranties of merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose, unless expressly disclaimed. Molds should have certain warranties regarding materials (at minimum), craftsmanship (preferably), and completely for a certain number of cycles (ideally). Additionally, regarding the production and supply of parts, note the terms and conditions contained within the supply agreement regarding conformity, timeliness and any other relevant factors.
*Go [here](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/blog/evaluating-molders-4/) for part 4 of 4.*
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# Top 20 Things to Look for in a Plastic Injection Molding Supplier (Part 2 of 4)
Source: https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/blog/evaluating-molders-2.md
**Part 2 of 4**
Searching for a new supplier takes time and effort. Trying to figure out how to measure and compare vendors can be challenging. To assist with this task, the [first installment](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/blog/evaluating-molders-1/) of this article presented five factors to consider in your analysis, and this part discusses five more.
**6. Technical Support & Expertise**
Plastic injection molding is quite a technical and specialized endeavor. Generally speaking, molders need to have a working knowledge of and experience with tooling fabrication and utilization; the chemistry and behavior of resin and additive types; utilizing machines with hundreds of tons of clamping pressure and inspection equipment to confirm tolerances of a thousandth of an inch; and efficient and effective production and quality procedures to manufacture and supply millions of conforming parts in a timely manner.
Accordingly, your supplier should be an expert that you can depend on to competently service the needs of your program and to advise you on virtually every aspect of your plastic injection molding program. At minimum, this includes part design, materials, tooling design and construction, engineering, processing, quality management, secondary operations, packaging, and logistics. In addition, suppliers should have personnel that are available and able to provide the necessary technical support you need. Further, your molder should attempt to be proactive and to identify and notify you of any issues before they occur and of any potential cost-saving measures that could be implemented.
**7. Troubleshooting & Problem Solving**
Even in ideal circumstances, stuff happens. When issues arise, does your molder have the knowledge and resources to identify the cause(s) and to implement solutions in a timely and effective manner? Do they consult with and explain things to you during the process? Do they have an in-house tooling department, or do they have to send the mold out for repairs? How quickly do they get the program back online? Problems are a part of doing business and, likewise, are an inevitable element of manufacturing. Accordingly, a plastic injection molder should be adept at troubleshooting and problem solving.
**8. Dependability**
We’re all busy. Trying to multitask. Hoping we don’t miss some deadline or forget to do something important. We have to-do lists and calendars and reminders and schedules and meetings and metrics and so on and so on. And, that’s just for work! As such, it’s crucial that you can rely on your molder to supply you with conforming parts on time on a regular basis, so you can focus your attention on other pressing matters.
Additionally, when those pesky issues arise (and they will), do you have the confidence in your molder to take care of it? The peace of mind knowing you have a dependable supplier can be incredibly important, as you may well know, especially if you have one that isn’t.
**9. Continual Improvement**
As the Red Queen said, “…it takes all the running you can do, to keep in the same place.” In other words, organisms (including companies) constantly must adapt, evolve and improve in order to survive and thrive against a constantly changing environment. As such, suppliers should have a practice of monitoring their performance, regularly reviewing its effectiveness, and implementing changes to keep up with the dynamic environment of business.
Also, is the molder certified to be operating in conformance with some industry standard, like ISO, which requires them to be continually improving? Do they communicate with their customers regarding their performance on an annual basis, at least, in the form of a customer satisfaction survey? Do they regularly add new equipment and service offerings?
**10. Culture**
Increasingly, company culture is becoming more important to employees, to customers, and to society in general. Corporate values and practices matter and, thus, should and do factor into buying decisions and brand loyalty.
Does the supplier appear to genuinely want to serve its clients? Do they have stated company values you agree with, and do they appear to follow them? How transparent are their operations? Do they have positive customer recommendations and testimonials? Has the company or its leadership been recognized as exemplary in any way? Use your intuition and try to gather as much objective evidence as possible, so that you can make the right decision.
*Go [here](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/blog/evaluating-molders-3/) for part 3 of 4.*
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# What to Expect Regarding Lead Times Associated with Plastic Injection Molding
Source: https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/blog/molding-lead-times.md
You’ve been given a new project to source that includes some plastic injection molded parts. If you don’t have a molding supplier (or if you’re not happy with the one you have, and this is the perfect opportunity to find a new one), it’s time to start doing a little research. While you certainly can find potential providers out there, just how long will it take for the bidding process? Once a contract is awarded, how long until the mold building can begin, and how long should you expect it to take until you get samples to inspect? After samples are approved, what kind of timeframe until the tooling is production ready? And, once the molds are complete, how long should it take to get parts?
Of course, all manufacturing programs are different, so each will have unique elements and will take varying amounts of time. Additionally, your company may have some specific sourcing requirements that vary from a standard approach, in which case the number of necessary steps, as well as the tasks within and timing of each, will be affected. Nevertheless, while the descriptions contained in this article are mostly estimates and generalizations, we can touch on the main points and walk through the process, so you have fairly accurate and reasonable expectations for each stage.
In addition, the research and development (R&D) phase of a new project can be very complex and literally take years. As such, we will begin with preparing for the bidding process and leave a discussion about R&D involving injection molding for another time.
**RESEARCH & SOURCING**
The search for a potential supplier can take months, possibly longer, depending on the complexity of the project. Finding the [right molder](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/blog/evaluating-molders-1/) with the necessary experience, qualifications, resources and offerings who is a good fit for the program and for your company generally takes some time. Unless you’re pressed for time (obviously not ideal), expect it to take a few months to make a somewhat lengthy list of potential molders and then a week or two to review the candidates internally and to whittle it down to your short list.
**RFQ PREPARATION**
To be as efficient as possible, it’s a good idea to start compiling the data and materials needed to create a detailed and thorough *request for quote* (RFQ) package while the sourcing research is being conducted. Performing both activities concurrently can save time, when and to the extent it is practical to do so.
Further, the investment required for tooling used in plastic injection molding can be significant. Thus, it is well worth the time and effort to review all relevant factors when preparing an RFQ and making sure it includes all the [essential elements](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/RFQ_Checklist_for_Plastic_Injection_Molding_Precision_2023.pdf). Accordingly, just gathering the necessary items can take weeks, as will creating the production files and drawings, if they don’t exist, although we will assume they do for this discussion. Then, it can take days or even weeks (depending on the project’s complexity) to draft an organized request, including all applicable information, summarizing the project, etc.
**BIDDING PROCESS**
Although making plastic parts might seem fairly straightforward to some, modern mold building, scientific injection molding, and professional quality control procedures involve multiple disciplines and require a significant level of expertise to perform properly. As such, preparing a thorough and accurate proposal for building molds and/or manufacturing parts should involve reviewing and analyzing quite a bit of data and collaborating with the customer to customize the approaches taken in order to optimize the program. Therefore, it should take at least a week for a good supplier to bid on a job, but it can take a month or two depending on the complexity of the project.
**TOOLING DESIGN & ENGINEERING**
An important element of building an injection mold is performing a *Design for Manufacturability* (DFM) study on the parts to be manufactured. A [DFM study](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/DFM_Checklist_Precision_2023.pdf) analyzes the design of a part with the intent of optimizing the quality of the part and the efficiency of the manufacturing process. Performing the study with the proper software and then reviewing the study report with the customer generally takes about a week. If the DFM study identifies anything other than minor recommended design changes, the time needed to make major adjustments often takes weeks. Subsequently, another DFM study may be warranted, further design changes made, etc.
After the part design is finalized, most tool builders prepare a mold design based on the approved DFM report and review the mold design with the customer. This often takes a week or more.
**MOLD BUILDING**
Once the DFM study report and mold design has been approved, the building of the mold can begin. This includes purchasing materials and performing the actual CNC work, EDM, milling, assembly, etc. Of course, the time before work actually starts depends on the lead time for receiving materials and on the mold builder’s schedule. Generally speaking, fabricating a custom plastic injection mold will take a minimum of three months, although the time varies greatly depending on the complexity of the mold. Single cavity tooling without side action can take a little less time, while multiple cavity molds with slides or other mechanical elements can require a much greater period.
**MOLD QUALIFICATION**
Once the fabrication work is complete and the mold has been assembled, the builder will perform the [mold qualification](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/blog/mold-qualification-vs-process-validation/) testing to confirm the dimensional accuracy of the part and to validate proper mold function. Once parts produced during this process meet the dimensional requirements, these “*tooling samples*” should be provided to the customer along with an inspection report. The mold qualification stage, as before, depends on the builder’s schedule, although it often takes about a week or two, assuming adequate planning.
If the samples are not approved, the mold needs to be disassembled and modification work is performed. Alternatively, the parts may be conforming but some issue exists, so a part design change might be needed. That could take a significant amount of time, depending on the work required to be performed on the mold, which might be quite a bit and possibly entail ordering new materials, even for seemingly minor design changes.
Subsequently, the mold is reassembled, retested and more samples are produced. The modification work and another round of testing generally takes at least a couple of weeks, although it depends on the severity of the changes needing to be made. Also, if more materials need to be ordered, that could delay things a bit further based on the material supplier’s lead time.
**TOOLING COMPLETION & SHIPPING**
As soon as the tooling samples are approved, the builder can perform any remaining work on the tool (e.g., polishing, mold labeling), prepare it for shipment (assuming the builder and the molder are different), and then ship the mold to the molder. Expect that finishing work and prep time to take around two to three weeks. The actual time it takes to ship the tool to the molding supplier depends on the distance traveled. A safe estimate for a shipment from overseas is about a month, plus outbound customs at the place of origin and inbound customs in the US often take about a week each.
**PROCESS VALIDATION**
Once the tool hits the molder’s dock, they generally perform an inspection, clean the mold (builders usually apply some type of anti-rust grease, when traveling over water), and prepare it for testing, all of which takes a week or so, depending on their current schedule. When the molder has the necessary materials, the mold will go into a molding machine for testing. This procedure is referred to as *process validation*, which establishes the optimal process parameters for a particular mold, so that it consistently produces parts that conform to the specifications. This can be a lengthy process to perform, so expect it to take at least a week.
The result of this step is the production of *first article samples*. Once the molder performs their quality inspections and the samples are conforming, they will provide them to you along with the inspection report. If the first articles are approved, the mold should be ready to go into production. However, if there are issues, the process may need to be manipulated, which could take a few days, or it could be something more serious, which might take longer to remedy.
**ORDER PROCESSING**
Once a mold is placed into production, it usually is stored at the molder’s facility for quick and easy access when orders for parts are submitted. When a purchase order is received, a molder needs to verify terms, pricing and its inventory of raw material, finished goods and other associated items (e.g., packaging) and put the order on its production schedule. The time a molder takes to process and fill orders can vary, and most suppliers have stated policies, (which is good to get in writing). Nevertheless, production should begin for new orders within four weeks, unless there are unique circumstances.
**PRODUCTION**
While a molder can state their policy for the time it will take to start manufacturing parts after their receipt of an order, the duration of each production run, obviously, depends on the size of the order and on the cycle time for the mold. For example, an order for 10,000 pieces with a cycle time of 20 seconds will be done quicker than an order for 100,000 pieces with a 30 second cycle.
Prior to production, the mold needs to be retrieved from storage and placed into the machine, the machine needs to be cleaned from the last production run, the new material needs to be put into the machine, and the process identified during the process validation phase must be established. (There are more steps involved, but we’re just mentioning the main ones.) During and after production, quality inspections take place. If any secondary operations (e.g., machining, decoration, assembly) are needed, those are performed at the appropriate times and inspections should be performed afterwards. Once everything is completed, parts will be packaged, placed on pallets, and shipped from the supplier. Due to the number of variables here, giving an estimate of time would be difficult.
**MOLD TRANSFERS**
If tooling already exists and is being moved to a new supplier, the timing analysis basically will start with the Process Validation stage, although the mold inspection performed might be a little more in depth. The actual time involved with [transferring molds](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/services/transfer-your-mold/) can be fairly short, especially with a little upfront planning. Additionally, offering to buy any existing material from the incumbent molder creates some good will with them, because they literally won’t be left holding the bag, if they had to purchase specialty material to make your parts and they have some left in inventory. This saves time in that they may not drag their feet as much to get your mold ready to ship, and it gives the new molder the exact material they need to make parts, which should save some time, too.
**CONCLUSION**
Mold building and plastic injection molding are complex undertakings. Accordingly, professional suppliers will require a significant amount of data to perform their responsibilities properly, and it often takes a sizable amount of time to analyze and understand the applicable information, to collaborate with the customer and all relevant third parties, to obtain the necessary materials, to manufacture the item in question, to test and inspect it, and then to ship it to its destination.
Furthermore, every molding and manufacturing project is unique and, as such, the total time they take will vary, as will the duration of each constituent step. Nonetheless, having at least a basic understanding of the approach, chronology and processes should establish reasonable expectations of the timeframe required for each, and we hope this article has aided in that way.
If you have any questions we can answer, please do not hesitate to [contact us](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/contact-us/).
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# Top 20 Things to Look for in a Plastic Injection Molding Supplier (Part 1 of 4)
Source: https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/blog/evaluating-molders-1.md
**Introduction**
Finding a custom plastic injection molding supplier can be a long and arduous task. You want someone who provides the most value and who is a good fit for you, for your company and for the program. Someone who checks all the boxes. But, what are those boxes, and how should you value each?
Ultimately, how you evaluate vendors and compare proposals depends on your unique needs and circumstances. That being said, this article is intended to offer some perspective to make the process a little easier, more thorough and, consequently, successful.
**1. Service Oriented**
Although supplying parts, viewed from a different perspective, a plastic injection molder provides the service of using your molds and their machines to convert plastic pellets into the shape specified by the product design. Therefore, as a service provider, it should be in a molder’s DNA to focus on serving their clients. Some elements of that would include accessibility, courtesy, patience, helpfulness, convenience, and professionalism.
**2. Flexibility**
As a corollary to service, your supplier should be willing and able to adapt to and accommodate the unique needs, requirements and specifications of your program, rather than having an overly rigid and uncompromising system and mindset. They should collaborate and cooperate with you in order to customize their services to meet your needs, as much as is reasonably practicable.
**3. Communication**
This can be viewed two ways: Procedurally and substantively. First, does the molder provide and maintain regular lines of communication? Nowadays, this means phone, email and text, at least, and can include instant messaging, enterprise communications (like Slack), and even on social media. Are they easy to get in touch with when you need them, or do you have to follow up to get a response? Do they respond to inquiries in a timely manner with valuable information?
Secondly, is your supplier effective at both verbal and written communication, being both thorough and concise in their explanations? Do they understand things from your perspective? Do they communicate with you in a way that makes it easy for you to understand the situation? Do they collaborate with you to resolve the issues?
**4. Quality**
Of course, as a manufacturer and supplier of parts and components, the quality of the fabricated product is of the utmost importance. Therefore, the molder should have a quality management system that is certified by an independent third party (e.g., ISO), which should give you confidence knowing they maintain a certain level of competency and performance. Do they have quality assurance and quality control procedures in place that they will customize to meet your requirements (reasonably speaking), and do they have knowledgeable quality personnel to carry out those processes? Do the molder’s employees undergo any type of training? Do they have a record of supplying conforming parts? How about positive customer testimonials and reviews?
**5. Timeliness**
Not only do you need good parts, but you need to get them on time. Consistently. Dependably. Do you receive complete, conforming orders in a timely manner, or are there delays and/or partial shipments? Additionally, what is the molder’s lead time for processing orders? Do they reply to inquiries in a timely fashion?
*Go [here](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/blog/evaluating-molders-2/) for part 2 of 4.*
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# Top 20 Things to Look for in a Plastic Injection Molding Supplier (Part 4 of 4)
Source: https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/blog/evaluating-molders-4.md
**Part 4 of 4**
This is the final installment in our four-part series on the qualities to look for in a plastic injection molding supplier. We hope you find it helpful in your research.
**16. Business Knowledge**
In addition to competency in manufacturing and in plastic injection molding, your supplier should know how to run a successful business. If they do, it should contribute toward their overall performance, which means higher quality parts, timely deliveries, helpful customer service, and competitive pricing. The perspective that comes from business and industry insight and understanding should result in a certain level of professionalism that makes them better and more of a valuable resource for you and for your company.
**17. Guidance**
Your injection molder should be an expert in their field and, as such, should provide you with the guidance necessary to make informed decisions regarding your parts and program. This can include optimizing part designs for moldability, manufacturability and performance; researching and recommending materials; and identifying potential cost saving initiatives. Additionally, as mentioned earlier, do they guide you through the problem-solving process when issues arise, and are they proactive in suggesting improvements before problems occur? Their knowledge, experience and expertise are a large part of what makes them a valuable resource to you and, consequently, should not be overlooked or undervalued.
**18. Financial**
Obviously, the process of finding the right injection molder will include a financial analysis. However, the bottom line often isn’t. There are many intangibles to factor in, and you need to decide how much you value each.
Additionally, make sure you are comparing apples to apples when looking at competing suppliers and proposals. For example, if tooling is being built, do the molds have the same number of cavities, the same warranties, the same expected lifespan, etc.? Is the molder providing you with different options for tooling and production and with quantity price breaks? Also, beware of any extra costs and fees, like mold qualification charges, process validation charges, mold setup fees, material and color change fees, outbound handling fees, etc. This is not to suggest those expenses are illegitimate, just make sure you factor them into your analysis.
**19. Trust**
As we all know, the foundation of any successful relationship includes trust. And, although this is related to other items on this list (e.g., dependability and the human element), we felt it was important enough to mention on its own. That’s because the value of truly believing your supplier will take care of you and your program cannot be overstated.
Do you trust the molder to look out for your best interests in a selfless manner, or do you think that, given the chance, they will take advantage of a situation to your detriment? There potentially will be opportunities for the supplier’s management and personnel to make decisions that will affect the quality and pricing of your parts. Likewise, knowing they will collaborate, communicate and cooperate with you means they truly are a business partner, which frees you up to focus on other suppliers of yours who aren’t.
**20. Value**
Not too long ago, I had an engineer tell me that the final decision on a project was not his and that, “Obviously, they [management] will go with whoever has the lowest price.” Unfortunately, this is an all-to-common and quite limited mindset, especially when considering the context.
When you are undertaking a project and engaging a company to provide you with custom manufacturing that is going to involve a significant financial investment and to require ongoing dependability over an extended period of time which could have a serious impact (positively or negatively) on your business’s sales, profitability and reputation, simply looking for and choosing the cheapest option is dangerously imprudent, incurs unnecessary risk, potentially hinders company growth, and generally invites problems.
Accordingly, while off-the-shelf parts may be just a commodity, the search for a supplier of custom injection molded parts should be focused on finding someone who provides the greatest comprehensive value. This must include analyzing all aspects of the molder as a supplier and as a business partner and evaluating how well they fit your wants and expectations, your company’s needs, and the unique requirements of the program.
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# The Relationship Between Mold Cavities and Part Price
Source: https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/blog/calculate-mold-cavities.md
When looking to get plastic injection molded parts or components made for a new project, buyers often make some kind of guesstimate about the number of cavities they want in the tooling. If the estimated annual usage (EAU) is fairly high, building a multi-cavity mold might make sense. However, there is a reasonably objective and fairly straightforward way to determine the number of cavities appropriate for a job, at a given stage of the program.
As a preliminary matter, it should be noted that, if a plastic injection mold is to have more than one cavity, it should have cavity balance. In other words, the number of cavities or flow groups (collections of cavities) on both sides of the sprue (the channel by which the molten plastic enters the mold) should be equal, and there should be a geometrically (or “naturally”) balanced runner system. This is necessary in order to achieve tight tolerances, a robust process, and fast cycle times. (The same general principle holds true for family molds, which make different parts, but we will limit our discussion here to those producing only one.)
The analysis for identifying the proper number of cavities in a mold begins with a determination of the estimated demand and the target part price. The demand essentially is a forecast of the number of parts needed per year and, consequently, the order amounts and frequency. For example, if the EAU is 120,000 parts per year, orders might be 10,000 every month; 20,000 every other month; 30,000 quarterly; etc. Target part price is determined by using whatever factors the buyer feels are relevant.
Once the demand is known, the amount of material needed to fill orders (i.e., the number of parts times the mass or weight of each part using the required resin) is calculated and communicated to the material suppliers, who respond with pricing, often including discounts at certain levels. Factoring in the cost of material at different order quantities, an evaluation can be done to see how many cavities are needed in order to hit the target part price. Possibly, one cavity will be sufficient. However, if not, two, four or more might be needed.
As you might guess, the main, underlying factor in the relationship between the number of cavities and the price of parts is time. If we assume a hypothetical production cycle time of thirty seconds, using a one-cavity mold, two parts would be manufactured every minute. Similarly, a two-cavity mold would produce four parts per minute, a four-cavity mold would produce eight, and so on. However, while this is roughly correct, it is not strictly accurate, as larger multi-cavity molds making more parts at a time require more plastic, which increases a few steps in the molding process, such as recovery time, injection time, and possibly cooling time (due to a larger runner).
Additionally, adding cavities to a mold usually increases its size, which results in it needing a larger molding machine in which to run. Further, making more parts at one time requires greater clamp pressure, also requiring a machine with greater tonnage. And, bigger machines are more expensive to run than smaller ones. Therefore, increasing the number of cavities does not necessarily reduce the part price to the same degree, although it does help.
Finally, building a bigger, multiple cavity mold requires more labor, time and materials than fabricating a smaller, single cavity mold. So, while the part price may decrease with a multi-cavity mold, the initial investment in tooling increases. Accordingly, at the beginning of a program, many companies choose to build smaller, less expensive molds and to pay a somewhat higher part price, and later they invest in multiple cavity tooling, once the program has obtained a certain market share and the company has the requisite capital to do so.
In conclusion, to determine the number of cavities needed in a plastic injection mold accurately and objectively, it is necessary to establish the estimated part demand and the target part price. Armed with those two items of information, an analysis can be conducted that will result in the required cavitation at given order quantities using the requisite resin.
How you approach the tooling needs for your program depends on these and on many other factors. If you would like some assistance in determining the proper path to take, please do not hesitate to contact us.
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# The Basics of CAD Part Modeling & File Types
Source: https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/blog/cad-part-modeling.md
Nowadays, computers are integrated into almost every aspect of our lives - from our cars, cameras and cell phones to our home appliances, business equipment, and the methods we use to obtain information and entertainment. The same is true for the design and fabrication of plastic parts, which used to entail a much greater level of manual input, creation and control.
However, despite the virtually ubiquitous use of computing in the engineering and manufacturing industries, some confusion and gaps in the public’s knowledge appear to exist, due in part to the rapid changes and innovations in the space. Accordingly, what follows should serve as a simple introduction to the basics of modern computer part modeling and file types.
**SOME DEFINITIONS**
**Three-dimensional (3D) modeling** is the process of developing a mathematical representation of any surface of an object in three dimensions using a collection of points in 3D space. Most 3D models are either (a) **solid models** that define the volume of the object they represent, or (b) **shell models** that represent only the surface of the object and not its volume, which commonly consist of *polygonal meshes*.
**Computer-Aided Design (CAD)** is the use of computers in the creation of a design, which includes 3D models and two-dimensional (2D) drawings (e.g., part prints). **Computer-Aided Engineering (CAE)** is the use of computer software (usually CAD) to aid in engineering analysis tasks, and **Computer-Aided Manufacturing (CAM)** is the use of software to control machines in the manufacturing of objects. CAD and CAM systems often are used to create programs to run **Computer Numerical Control (CNC)** machining equipment (like drills and lathes) and 3D printers. Additionally, a **Coordinate Measuring Machine (CMM)** is a device that measures the geometry of objects by sensing discrete points on the surface of the object with a mechanical or optical probe, which often is utilized for quality inspections of manufactured parts to verify dimensional conformity.
**3D printing** devices use digital computer models (usually mesh models) to form objects by printing material layer by layer. Another term for this production method is *additive manufacturing*.
**Model-Based Definition (MBD)** is the process of using an annotated 3D CAD model, which includes **Product and Manufacturing Information (PMI)** (i.e., any non-geometric data included within a 3D CAD file), as the definitive authority for downstream processes throughout the product life cycle. For example, in MBD, the information captured by the CAD software is fed into a CAM program, which creates computer code (usually G-code) to be executed by a CNC machine tool or other equipment. An important aspect of MBD is that data should be standardized, interoperable, and software (or **CAx (Computer-Aided Technologies)**) neutral. The digital data set may contain enough information to manufacture and inspect the object without the need for engineering drawings, although it can and often is used to generate them.
As mentioned above, **G-code** is the most widely used CNC programming language. G-code instructions are provided to a machine controller (i.e., an industrial computer) that tells the motors where to move, how fast to move, and what path to follow.
PMI can include **Geometric Dimensions and Tolerances (GD&T)**, surface finish requirements, material specifications, and other data. Industry standards for defining PMI include [ASME Y14.41](https://href.li/?https://www.asme.org/codes-standards/find-codes-standards/y14-41-digital-product-definition-data-practices) and [ISO 1101:2012](https://href.li/?https://www.iso.org/standard/59490.html). Additionally, the [National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)](https://href.li/?https://www.nist.gov/) of the U.S. Department of Commerce has created a [testing system](https://href.li/?http://go.usa.gov/mGVm) to measure conformance of CAD software to ASME standards for PMI.
**MODEL TYPES**
Note that, while there are connections in this area with computer graphics software and modeling, our focus here is on engineering and manufacturing, particularly as they relate to the design and fabrication of plastic parts. That being said, much of the information contained herein may be applicable elsewhere.
**Solid Models**
Most CAE models originate from CAD systems, which typically use continuous surface and edge definitions based on a mathematical model called **Non-Uniform Rational Basis Spline (NURBS)**. With NURBS, smooth surfaces and edges can be computed using a set of control points. NURBS is a type of curve modeling (which also includes geometric primitives and a few others), as opposed to polygonal or mesh modeling, as explained below.
Further, using a **Boundary Representation (B-rep or BREP)** method, a solid is represented as a collection of connected surface elements, which define the boundary between interior and exterior points. BREP is a type of geometry utilizing a set of NURBS surfaces seen as a solid. According to [Wikipedia](https://href.li/?https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Boundary_representation), “A boundary representation of a model comprises topological components (faces, edges and vertices) and the connections between them, along with geometric definitions for those components (surfaces, curves and points, respectively).” A vertex is a corner or point, an edge is a line segment between two faces connecting two vertices, and a face is a flat surface on a solid object. ([ISO 10303-42](https://href.li/?https://www.iso.org/standard/78579.html) defines some data models for boundary representations.) Precise BREP solid models power most popular mechanical design tools, as they were the first technology to represent nominal geometry to within micron accuracy.
Another solid modeling technique is to use **Constructive Solid Geometry (CSG)**, where 3D shapes are built by performing boolean operations (addition or subtraction) of simple shapes called primitives, such as cubes, cylinders, spheres, etc. In other words, CSG is the process of building solid objects from other solids. The three CSG operations are union, intersection and difference.
**Shell or Mesh Models**
In polygonal or mesh modeling, points (vertices) in 3D space are connected by line segments to form groups of polygons, or a **mesh**, to represent the surface or shape of an object. Mesh model files often are used by 3D printers, which deposit material layer by layer that becomes solidified into the object being produced.
Solid model files typically contain quite a bit of data and consequently require a considerable amount of computing power. Conversely, mesh model files generally are much smaller in size (unless the user is trying to compensate for the mesh’s poor representation of curved surfaces by increasing the file size). However, solid models can be converted into shell models that approximate certain features of the object, thereby reducing the file size and allowing computers to analyze and render them more quickly. Additionally, there are some conversion packages for turning mesh geometry into NURBS geometry, although they are somewhat limited and require a bit of work, as smooth, curved surfaces must be designed or modeled from scratch.
The process of transforming a mathematical representation of an object into a polygon representation is called **tessellation**, where objects are broken down (or *approximated*) from abstract representations to so-called meshes, which are nets of interconnected triangles or facets (i.e., flat surfaces on a geometric shape). Polygons are planar and only can approximate curved surfaces using many polygons. Additionally, all polygons can be made using triangles, so those are the most common shapes used. Therefore, a mathematical representation of a smooth, curved, continuous surface in three dimensions is approximated to a tessellated, triangulated, faceted, mesh, polygonal model of the surface.
Triangulated mesh surfaces describe surface geometry and shapes only. They are not precise, continuous boundary representations of the topological data of an object’s surfaces and curves (i.e., its faces, edges and vertices (or points)).
**Wireframe Models**
Wireframe models only include lines and curves that connect points (vertices), which thereby define the edges of an object. In other words, wireframes are just the outlines of a 3D object, and they do not include surfaces (faces), nor do they contain any mass properties. This is the least complex method for modeling 3D objects.
**The Need for Precision**
The advantage of having a mathematical definition of an object is that different levels of model detail can be produced without losing fidelity. When facets (polygons) alone are the geometric definition of a surface, producing different levels of detail causes aliasing problems (i.e., jagged or saw-toothed appearance of curved or diagonal lines), because facets cannot create a continuous, smooth surface. Instead, artifacts of the facets will manifest as sharp, abrupt changes, especially in regions of high curvature. No amount of mesh refinement can achieve smooth curvature.
In the disciplines of high precision engineering, manufacturing and measurement (e.g., plastic injection mold building and the molding and inspection of parts), the 3D models need to be smooth and precise at any scale. Therefore, formats using precise geometry are going to be the best fit for these tasks.
**STANDARDIZATION, INTEROPERABILITY AND DATA EXCHANGE**
In 1994, the [International Standards Organization (ISO)](https://href.li/?https://www.iso.org/home.html) established [ISO 10303](https://href.li/?https://www.iso.org/publication/PUB100443.html), which is a comprehensive standard for the representation and exchange of digital product and manufacturing information between computer systems. Its official title is “Automation systems and integration — Product data representation and exchange,” and it is known informally as “**STEP**” or the “STandard for the Exchange of Product model data.”
ISO 10303 includes numerous **Application Protocols (AP)**, each of which define a data exchange standard for a certain family of products at a particular stage in its life cycle. Notably, [AP203](https://href.li/?https://www.iso.org/standard/44305.html) defines the geometry, topology and configuration management data of solid models for mechanical parts and assemblies but does not include colors and layers. Additionally, [AP214](https://href.li/?https://www.iso.org/standard/43669.html) includes everything AP203 does but adds colors, layers, geometric dimensioning and tolerance (GD&T), and design intent. (You may have noticed references to STEP AP203 and STEP AP214 in your CAD software, and this is why.) However, ISO has withdrawn both AP203 and AP214, which were integrated into [AP242](https://href.li/?https://www.iso.org/standard/66654.html) to create a single standard for model-based 3D engineering. AP242 features more [Model-Based Definition (MBD)](https://href.li/?https://www.solidworks.com/product/solidworks-mbd) support, such as PMI integrated with 3D models.
STEP files are used to represent part geometry and PMI that is used for data exchange and interoperability between CAD, CAM, CAE, CMM, and other computer-aided systems. STEP addresses product data from mechanical and electrical design, GD&T, analysis, and manufacturing, as well as additional information specific to various industries, such as automotive, aerospace, construction and others.
Native CAD file formats created by various modeling programs are proprietary and need to be translated and validated for use in other systems and for downstream processing. Conversely, neutral CAD file formats are interoperable between different computer software. The transfer and exchange of data is necessary so that, for example, one organization can develop a CAD model, while another performs analysis of the model, and a third is responsible for manufacturing the product.
In 2003, the [American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME)](https://href.li/?https://www.asme.org/) published the ASME Y14.41-2003 Digital Product Definition Data Practices, which was later revised and is [ASME Y14.41-2019](https://href.li/?https://www.asme.org/codes-standards/find-codes-standards/y14-41-digital-product-definition-data-practices). The standard provides for the use of many MBD aspects, such as GD&T display and other annotation behaviors within the solid model. [ISO 16792](https://href.li/?https://www.iso.org/standard/73871.html) standardizes MBD within the ISO standards, sharing many similarities with the ASME standard.
**COMMON FILE TYPES**
There are many native or proprietary 3D modeling systems and file types, although most offer methods for exporting the native file into a standard neutral format. The most common neutral file types are as follows below.
**Solid Model or NURBS File Types**
In 1980, the **Initial Graphics Exchange Specification (IGES)** was established by the U.S. National Bureau of Standards (later renamed as NIST) as a vendor-neutral file format. The format still is used by certain industries, although interest has declined in recent years.
As previously mentioned, ISO 10303 instituted the **STEP** format for the representation and exchange of PMI. The STEP file format was intended to be a successor to IGES. (NIST actually provides a free [STEP File Analyzer and Viewer](https://href.li/?https://www.nist.gov/services-resources/software/step-file-analyzer-and-viewer) program to use with these files.)
Other file types include the newer **QIF (Quality Information Framework)**, described by [ISO 23952:2020](https://href.li/?https://www.iso.org/standard/77461.html), and **JT (Jupiter Tessellation)**, which is referenced in [ISO 14306:2017](https://href.li/?https://www.iso.org/standard/62770.html) and mostly utilized by Siemens users. The **Parasolid (X_T)** format has been around for a while but is not a standard format, although it can be used by many modeling systems.
**Mesh or Polygonal File Types**
The most common universal mesh file format is **STL (for stereolithography)**, which stores data based on triangulations of the surface of CAD models. Other common names include Standard Triangle Language or Standard Tessellation Language.
The **Additive Manufacturing File (AMF)** format was established by [ISO/ASTM 52915](https://href.li/?https://www.iso.org/standard/74640.html). It is an open standard for describing objects for additive manufacturing processes, such as 3D printing, and is a successor to STL.
Another common polygonal file type is **OBJ (object)**, which was first developed by Wavefront Technologies. It only represents the 3D geometry of an object.
**CONCLUSION**
The design, engineering, manufacturing and measurement of parts and components is performed almost entirely with the help of computer processing systems and software. The CAD modeling of objects includes mathematically precise solid models, polygonal or mesh models where curved surfaces are approximated with nets of interconnected facets, and wireframe models, which only define the edges of a 3D object.
Government agencies, standards organizations and trade associations have developed specifications for the representation and exchange of digital product and manufacturing data between computer systems with the intent of encouraging interoperability. Within this framework, standard neutral file formats for the different methods of part modeling have been established.
While the limited scope and context of this article preclude a thorough examination of these complex fields, having some basic knowledge of them should contribute towards the ability to ask the right questions of those performing the associated work, with understanding the answers given, and with determining any further research and analysis to conduct.
For more information, feel free to [contact our support team](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/contact-us/). We’re here to help.
👉🏻 Click [here](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/The_Basics_of_CAD_Part_Modeling_and_File_Types_Precision_2023.pdf) for a printable version of this article.
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# Technopolymers & Replacing Metal with Plastic
Source: https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/blog/metal-parts-to-plastic.md
The word “technopolymer” is used by different people and with seemingly distinct definitions. Generally speaking, the term is referenced in the context of replacing metal with plastic when producing certain items, although the type of resin often is not given. What then does this expression really mean?
Merriam-Webster does not have a listing for “technopolymer,” but Wiktionary defines it as “Any plastic material used to fabricate something usually made of metal.” But, for such a technical-sounding term, that explanation leaves a little something to be desired. More specifically, one medical journal [article](https://href.li/?https://www.researchgate.net/publication/11211922_Flexibility_of_technopolymer_clasps_compared_with_cobalt-chromium_and_titanium_clasps) says, “Technopolymers, also known as acetyl resins, are injection molded thermoplastics that have been proposed as an aesthetic alternative to metals…”1 However, acetyl should not be confused with acetal (aka polyoxymethylene or POM). Additionally, other resins or thermoplastics besides acetyl and acetal are used to replace metals. Further, Omnilexica posits that, “Technopolymer is marketing jargon for plastic. Often used in products being marketed as high quality and, hence, the product makers prefer not to have the word ‘plastic’ mentioned in the marketing materials.”
Despite these divergent definitions, generally speaking, a technopolymer is a base resin or plastic, often with a reinforcing additive, used to produce a part requiring high strength and impactability, sometimes replacing metal as the part’s material. The most common plastics used include nylon (aka polyamide or PA), polycarbonate, polypropylene, and carbon fiber. The reinforcing agent normally utilized is glass fiber, which, when added to a polymer, produces the composite material popularly known as fiberglass.
Increasingly, many manufacturers are replacing metal parts and components with injection molded plastic ones due to the multiple advantages plastic provides. These benefits can include lower material and manufacturing costs, lighter weight, quicker production times, greater resistance to corrosion, and longer part life. Accordingly, Precision Molded Plastics has worked with many of its customers to produce their parts using plastic as a substitute for metal.
So, while the term technopolymer may sound fancy, it is just another expression for a tough plastic, often including glass fiber, used to make strong parts. However, these materials often are used to replace metal, resulting in a part that is lighter, less expensive, and lasts longer, and that is impressive.
1 Sykes, Leanne & Dullabh, Hemant & D Chandler, H & Bunn, Belinda & R M Essop, A. (2002). Flexibility of technopolymer clasps compared with cobalt-chromium and titanium clasps. SADJ : journal of the South African Dental Association = tydskrif van die Suid-Afrikaanse Tandheelkundige Vereniging. 57. 166-71.
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# Part Decoration for Plastic Injection Molding
Source: https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/blog/part-decoration.md
Many plastic injection molded parts need to have some form of decoration applied to them after being manufactured. Possible reasons for decorating or marking parts include identification, tracking, branding, notices, warnings, instructions, as a product attribute, or otherwise. There are some standard methods of decorating plastic parts, and each has certain advantages and considerations, depending on the part application, the decorating purpose, and the resin being used.
**PAD PRINTING**
Historically, one of the more popular methods for decorating plastic parts has been with pad printing. There are three different types of pad printing machines: open inkwell, closed ink cup, and rotary gravure, which is used for printing 360 degrees on a part. Machines have a printing plate or a cliché, which commonly are made out of steel for durability. The artwork to be printed onto the parts is etched into the printing plate.
As the name suggests, the machines have transfer pads that come in a few different shapes and that are made out of silicone rubber with various hardness or shore levels. Pad life ranges from 10,000 to 100,000 cycles with an average of about 50,000.
The process consists of the pad picking up ink in the etched image on the cliché and placing it onto the part. Pad printing uses a type of solvent-based ink specifically designed for this purpose. This type of decoration also requires the fabrication of nesting fixtures to hold the parts in place during the printing process.
**HEAT TRANSFER**
A newer and usually more effective method of part decoration is thermal or heat transfer. With this process, the image is printed on a polyester film, which is coated with an adhesive so the image will stick to the part. Rolls of this film with the digitally printed images are placed on the printing machine’s reels, which index forward to print successive parts. Fixtures to hold parts are used here, as they are in pad printing. Additionally, a silicone decorating head or pad applies heat and pressure to print the transfer image onto the part.
Some advantages of heat transfer include the ability to create an image with four colors plus white in as high as 1200 dpi. In addition, there is no drying or curing time with decorating plastic parts, as there is with pad printing. Further, heat transfer decorations generally are tougher than pad printing and can be dishwasher safe.
**HOT STAMP**
Another common technique used to decorate plastic injection molded parts is hot stamping. A hot stamp machine transfers an image with pre-dried ink to a part with a die, again using heat and pressure and a fixture to hold the part, as with the previous methods.
One main advantage of hot stamping is the ability to apply a metallic foil or embossing to a plastic part. If you’re reading this article on a desktop computer, chances are the monitor in front of you has a logo that has been hot stamped on it. It also is a relatively clean process, compared to the wet ink used in pad printing.
**LASER MARKING**
Another method for decorating injection molded parts is by utilizing a laser marking system. This approach includes laser marking, laser engraving, and laser etching. Laser marking (or foaming) changes the color of the part where the text or graphic is, while the surface stays relatively unchanged. Alternatively, laser engraving removes some of the surface material, whereas laser etching melts the surface resin and creates a raised mark.
Of course, laser marking, engraving and etching all require a laser decorating machine. Additionally, fixtures to hold the parts usually are required, as with other decorating methods, although some fixtureless laser decorating systems have been developed. Some advantages of laser decorating include less wear and tear on the decorating equipment, it’s a precise and repeatable process, and it provides the ability to decorate some hard-to-reach part areas. Due to these benefits, industries like medical, automotive and aerospace often utilize the process.
**IN-MOLD DECORATION**
The method of in-mold decoration involves placing a pre-printed plastic film or appliqué in an injection mold before the part is molded, and the graphic then adheres to the part after it forms in the mold’s cavity. In-mold decoration requires a uniquely designed and built plastic injection mold and a carrier film feeder. The film can be manually placed into the mold between each cycle, but that greatly increases the manufacturing time and labor costs associated with the parts. However, even with a feeder, parts requiring in-mold decoration generally tend to be more expensive than other decorated parts, due to the specialized design, tooling and manufacturing required.
**INKJET DECORATION**
Inkjet printing on plastics is a relatively newer process, and it involves digitally printing a graphic onto a part. The system essentially is the same as inkjet printers for paper, with which most of us are familiar, although it uses a different type of ink. These machines typically use either conventional or LED lamps, and the process eliminates labels, films, printing plates, clichés or screens, as required with other decorating methods, although they do require a printhead and ink. Historically, this kind of decorating is somewhat slower and more costly than other forms, although advances are being made.
**SCREEN PRINTING**
Most people are familiar with screen printing in the context of t-shirts, and this also can be referred to as silk screening. Screen printing can be used for parts with flat or cylindrical surfaces but is not recommended for parts with complex curves and shapes. One advantage of screen printing is that it can print metallic graphics onto parts, which some other methods cannot do. Although providing the option of printing with multiple colors, a separate screen is needed for each separate hue, which increases cost and decorating time. The surface to be decorated needs to be prepared prior to printing, too.
**PAINTING**
When injection molding a part cannot achieve the desired texture, finish or color, painting the parts sometimes is utilized as a secondary operation. This approach can include spray painting and powder coating. As most injection molders do not perform painting as a finishing operation, the parts will need to go to a secondary provider, which often results in increased costs.
**PLATING**
When looking for a metal finish on an injection molded part, hard chrome plating and electroless nickel plating are two commonly used options. Plating offers a decorative finish, and it provides a certain level of corrosion protection. One item to note is that any surface imperfections on the part can affect the look of the plating, so consideration needs to be given there. Additionally, few molders also perform plating services, so those two suppliers will need to coordinate their work. There also are some design and material considerations that must be taken into account.
**CONCLUSION**
There are many different methods of decorating a plastic injection molded part, and each has its own unique advantages and disadvantages, depending on the requirements of the project. When developing a new product with components that may need to be decorated in some way, attention should be given to the part design, the polymer being used, the decorating purpose, the part application, the governing regulations, and the cost considerations. If we can answer any questions, don’t hesitate to [reach out to us](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/contact-us/).
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# Choosing the Right Plastic for Injection Molding
Source: https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/blog/choosing-your-plastic.md
How do you identify the right resin for your plastic injection molded part? Beyond a certain plastic family, what grade, brand and characteristics do you need or want? On the other hand, if you already have selected a specific material, are there any alternative or equivalent resins available? If so, what are the differences and similarities, the pros and cons, the costs and benefits?
The base materials used for plastic injection molding generally are referred to as thermoplastic polymers. There are multiple broad families of plastic (e.g., ABS, Polypropylene, Nylon), and various grades with differing qualities within each family. Also, there are a myriad of brands of the same material family produced by different plastic manufacturers. Further, numerous additives exist that can be included with the base material in order to add or enhance a certain quality. Common examples include adding a UV additive to protect against harm caused by sunlight and using glass fiber to act as a reinforcing agent.
One of the first steps in choosing the right plastic for your part or component is to determine all of the applicable requirements. Legally speaking, any relevant statutory or regulatory requirements need to be identified. In the U.S., these can include federal and state laws, agency regulations, industry standards, and others.
Next, as a practical matter, what characteristics does the resin need to have? Some of the most frequently referenced properties of plastic used for injection molding include heat resistance, chemical resistance, impact resistance, weather resistance, UV resistance, moisture resistance, flame retardant, toughness, hardness, flexibility, stability, elasticity, strength, weight, mass density (or specific gravity), and clarity.
Once materials meeting the requirements are found, research can be done to identify any possible alternative or equivalent resins. On UL’s [Prospector](https://href.li/?https://www.ulprospector.com/en/na) materials database (one of the most widely used, but subscription based), an alternative materials search will show numerous similar resins ranked on the correlation between the specified grade and the alternates regarding many different characteristics, including those mentioned previously and others relating to moldability. Moreover, if one digs into the details a little deeper, it may be seen that a possible substitute is even closer to the original material than reported, although Prospector did not have data for a certain material quality.
Armed with some potential candidates, the material suppliers (manufacturers and/or distributors) should be contacted regarding pricing, availability, lead times, and for their recommendations regarding any other possible substitutes you may not have uncovered. After receiving and analyzing all of that information, the next step would be to obtain some material from the supplier and then to use it to produce some sample parts. Different grades of material can be purchased and used to make samples in order to compare and contrast the properties of each resin. However, trying to use different material family types with the same mold can be problematic, due to the dissimilar rate of shrinkage between plastics, among other factors.
Generally speaking, the preferred way to determine the right plastic for any injection molded part, component or product is to have everyone associated with the program collaborate on the matter. At a minimum, supply chain personnel, engineers, mold builders, and injection molders all should be included. Each will bring his or her own unique perspective and, hopefully, add value to the discussion. Taking a joint, inclusive, multidisciplinary approach - where the different departments within a company and the customer and supplier all work together - should result in the identification and utilization of the right material for the job.
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# Moving Your Plastic Injection Mold to a New Supplier
Source: https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/blog/moving-your-mold.md
Moving plastic injection molds your company already owns from your existing molder to a new supplier can be a tricky process. You are not satisfied with the service, quality, lead times, etc. you are receiving from your current vendor and have decided it is time to make a move, but you are not sure how your existing supplier will respond once it becomes aware they are losing the work. And, you need product and cannot afford to have any delays in the supply chain.
Not to worry; with a little planning, transferring your tooling to a new injection molder can be done in a relatively easy and pain-free way. Here are some tips to help make the transition a little smoother:
**1. Gather Mold Data. **One of the first steps is to compile some important information about the tooling, so the new molder can provide you with a quote for production. That information includes the number of cavities, the type of gating, and the mold dimensions. If you have or can get a process sheet from your existing supplier, that would be great, although they usually are not available. One approach is to tell your existing supplier that you need photographs of and data relating to the mold(s) for tax or insurance purposes (which you might), if you want to try that method. Additionally, of course, the new vendor will need product information, such as 3D files, inspection drawings, material specifications, and any assembly, secondary operations and/or packaging requirements. Also, you should make note of the annual usage, order quantities and frequency, and shipping guidelines. We have a handy form you can use for gathering the necessary information, which you can get [here](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Program_Data_Sheet_Plastic_Injection_Molding_Precision_2023_Fill-in.pdf).
**2. Research Other Molders.** While putting together the package of tooling information, you can start doing the research to find potential new supplier. When evaluating molders, there are many factors to consider. Preferably, you can find a nearby company that has experience with your industry. The location of your new molder can be especially important if you have large parts, as shipping costs will factor in. Transportation costs for small parts will have a lower overall impact. Also, obviously, the company must have the necessary equipment to produce your product. So, if there are unique aspects to the parts, e.g., size, tight tolerances, overmolding, insert molding, etc., make sure the potential molders can accommodate those needs. Further, if the program has a high demand, make sure the molder has the capacity to handle high volume production.
**3. Obtain Quotes.** Now that you have identified a few possible candidates and have all of the relevant information regarding your program, the time has come to submit your requests for quote. If the supplier has a Request For Quote (RFQ) page on their website, that is a good place to start, although you might want to call and talk to someone first. If you do, pay attention to how they handle your call. Are they friendly and knowledgeable? If you leave someone a voicemail message, how quickly do they return your call? If you submit an RFQ, how soon do they say they will respond, and do they contact you in a timely manner? How the company handles your inquiry most likely will be how they handle your business.
**4. Evaluate Suppliers.** Once you have obtained quotes, you need to evaluate the them and the vendors themselves. If possible, you probably should make a site visit to see the suppliers’ facilities and to meet the personnel face-to-face. If you are going to do business with this company, it is worth taking the time to get to know them on the front end. Regarding the proposals, you will look at the pricing, of course, but there are other important considerations, too. Most importantly, how do you feel about the company and the way they operate their business? Is their facility clean, controlled and organized, or is it messy and chaotic? If it is a smaller company, can they really handle the demands of your program? On the other hand, if it is a larger supplier, will you get the attention you deserve or become just another customer? What kind of quality management system to they have? In addition, look for other important information contained within the quotations. Are there any hidden fees or extra charges? What is their stated lead time for production? Do they perform maintenance on the tooling and, if so, do they charge for that? (Also, do they have an in-house tooling department, or do they send the mold out for maintenance and repairs?) Will they store the mold and, again, what is that fee? Do they deliver product, and what does that cost? Lastly, what are the important aspects of your program, what are the things that are important to you, and are the suppliers equipped to meet those needs?
**5. Make the Move.** Hopefully, your search resulted in you finding a vendor who you trust to handle the job. They do work for other companies in your industry, provide quality products on time, their customer service is responsive and helpful, and their pricing is fair, which might end up not being your main focus, if everything else is good. Once you have chosen your new supplier, let them know you made the decision to move your tooling over to them and ask about lead times until they can start delivering product. Based on that information, it is a good idea to build up a little inventory to cover that timeframe, if possible.
Next, give your existing molder something in writing (either a letter or email should be fine) stating that you will be scheduling a truck to come pick up your mold(s) and asking them to let you know when the tooling will be available. They most likely will want all invoices paid up, so be prepared for that, too.
Lastly, if your product requires a custom material compound or color match, it is good practice to consider purchasing any inventory the current molder has on hand (ask for original invoices as proof of cost) and transfer it along with the molds. Doing this will help maintain a good relationship between your company and the old supplier, and it will remove variables and simplify the transfer to the new molder, ultimately saving time, money and facilitating a seamless transition.
Moving your plastic injection molds from an existing supplier to a new one can take a little time and planning but, if you are not getting the type of products and service you want now, it is well worth the effort.
Visit our website for more information on our [Effortless Mold Transfers](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/services/transfer-your-mold/) system.
---
# Plastic Apples to Apples
Source: https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/blog/plastic-apples-to-apples.md
When receiving bids on a new plastic injection molding program, it is important to gather and analyze all of the relevant data. This is true for both the building of molds and for the production of parts.
However, just like snowflakes and fingerprints, molders and the proposals they create are all different. So, it can be challenging when comparing the quotes you receive. Are the molders quoting a different number of molds and cavities in each? Are the molds of the same quality? What are the guarantees? Do the quotes have different pricing tiers for the production of parts? Are there any hidden or extra fees? What are the payment terms? You get the idea.
In an effort to calibrate the data received, it definitely helps to put the specific information you want in a formal Request For Quote (RFQ) package that all the molders receive. Ideally, the person or department responsible for the part and project requirements has supplied you with them. Additionally, be sure to include your specific needs and expectations for the job and the relationship.
Some buyers include a form or spreadsheet the suppliers are required to complete and submit with their quotes (although some molders won’t be happy about it but, if they aren’t, do you really want to work with them?). Of course, that will not guarantee identical elements across the board, but it should help, too.
To stay organized, it is a good idea to create a spreadsheet that lists the main important items. In addition to your unique requirements, we have a [buyer’s guide](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Guide_to_Analyzing_Plastic_Injection_Molding_Quotes_Precision_2023.pdf) that explains what most of the essential elements in a plastic injection molding quote are, which should assist in your analysis.
While there may be a tendency to compare only the different prices you receive, analyzing proposals to build valuable company assets like molds, to produce parts and components your company will use or sell to others, and to enter into a long term business relationship requires a more sophisticated and thorough examination. Accordingly, make sure you are identifying the separate, important factors and evaluating them consistently. Lastly, in addition to the individual items, be sure to consider the overall value that each company provides and whether they are the injection molding partner for which you are looking.
---
# Top 10 Reasons to Build Bridge Tooling
Source: https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/blog/top-10-reasons-to-build-bridge-tooling.md
At the beginning of a plastic injection molding program, investing in **bridge tooling** (e.g., family molds) to bridge the gap between R&D/prototypes and multi-cavity production tools can be a good, cost-effective approach to take. Here are 10 reasons why.
**1.** It’s **LESS EXPENSIVE** to build fewer, low-volume molds, than it is to fabricate more, multi-cavity, high-volume tools.
> *Fewer Molds *👉🏻* Less Labor + Fewer Materials *👉🏻* Lower Initial Investment*
**2.** Bridge tools give you the ability to **PRODUCE PARTS AT SCALE**, which is cost prohibitive for methods like 3D printing.
> *Generally speaking, injection molding is faster *⏩* and*
>>>>>> *cheaper *💰* than additive manufacturing*
**3.** It’s **USUALLY QUICKER** to get bridge tools built and validated, so you can get to market sooner.
> *Fewer molds to build + Lower complexity tooling = Shorter build time*
**4.** Selling your product sooner means having the ability to test the market and to start garnering **MARKET SHARE **and demand.
> *Start selling *🏪* and marketing *📣* your product!*
>>>>>> *Find out what works *👍🏻* and what doesn’t *👎🏻*!*
**5.** Sales results in **WORKING CAPITAL**, which will help fund the fabrication of multiple cavity, high-volume molds later.
> *Sales = *💲💲💲
**6.** Selling product will provide you with valuable **MARKET FEEDBACK** on functionality, issues, pricing, etc.
> *Your customers will tell you what they like, don’t like, and want!*
>>>>>> 🙂😐🙁
**7.** Actually molding parts will uncover areas of improvement in **PART DESIGN, TOOLING AND MANUFACTURING**.
> *Your molder can identify* 🔬 *part and mold design changes* 🛠️
>>>>>> *to optimize part quality* ⚙️ *and the manufacturing process* 🏭
**8.** Insights gleaned from the market and from suppliers can be used to **REVISE AND IMPROVE** your product.
> *Designers* 👩‍🎨*, engineers *👨‍💻 *and mold builders* 👨‍🔧 *can collaborate*
>>>>>> *to improve* 📈 *the parts, processes and program*
**9.** You can continue **SELLING PRODUCT** while designing, building and testing the multi-cavity, high-volume tools.
> *Generate revenue* 💵 *and market the product* 📢
>>>>>> *while molds are being built* 👩‍🏭 *and validated* 🏅
**10.** Once built and in production, using multi-cavity tools should result in **INCREASED PROGRAM PROFITABILITY**.
> *Multiple cavity molds* ➡️ *Shorter manufacturing time* ➡️ *Lower part prices* ➡️ *Higher margins* 😃
---
# Mold Qualification vs Process Validation
Source: https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/blog/mold-qualification-vs-process-validation.md
When a new plastic injection mold is built and initially assembled, it usually goes through two general stages of testing, inspections and evaluation. These phases serve somewhat different purposes, although they are related and both are necessary for the mold to be completed and put into production. Also, while certain projects and companies may require additional steps to be taken, the approach described here is common for most new tooling.
The first stage of testing new tooling customarily is referred to as **mold qualification**, which looks to see if part dimensions are to specification and if the part meets aesthetic and/or surface requirements. This examination is conducted by the mold builder, who subsequently provides some of the samples produced and the inspection reports containing their findings.
The parts produced during this process generally are called *tooling samples*. The tooling samples are inspected to confirm the dimensional accuracy of the parts (i.e., to make sure the measurements are within the allowable tolerances, especially with respect to any critical dimensions that have been identified) and to validate proper mold function. Samples produced during the mold qualification stage are not inspected for color, finish, etc., which will be done during the next phase of testing.
If any of the tooling samples’ dimensions are not to specification, the mold will go in for modifications, and another round of samples will be produced and inspected. Once everything meets the requirements, the mold can be completed, and the next stage of testing can be performed.
The second stage of inspecting new injection molds is called **process validation**. During the process validation phase, the molder establishes the optimal process parameters for a particular mold, so that it consistently produces parts that conform to the specifications. This can be a lengthy process, as arriving at an ideal molding process is a technical and specialized endeavor involving the interaction of multiple variables, including the injection speed, injection pressure, mold temperature, cavity pressure, cooling time, and ejection speed.
Process validation is conducted using the specific resin, colorant, additives and injection molding machine to be used during production. The parts produced at this point are called *first article samples*, which should be identical to the parts that will be manufactured once the mold goes into production and, thus, should be evaluated in every respect. To document the testing, a first article inspection report (or FAIR) will be prepared and submitted with the samples.
Similar to the mold qualification stage, if there are any issues, either the mold (occasionally) or the process (most likely) will need adjusting, and another round of samples will be created and inspected. Once conforming parts are produced, inspected and approved, the mold will be production ready.
Although this is only a short, simplified summary of the process for testing new plastic injection molds, it should give you a basic understanding of the steps and approach involved. If you would like more information, please do not hesitate to [contact us](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/contact-us/). We’re here to help.
---
# Time and Motion Studies
Source: https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/blog/time-and-motion-studies.md
In addition to manufacturing, some plastic injection molders also provide assembly services. While there are many different types of product assemblies, there are some basic approaches towards determining what the process will entail. One of those approaches is referred to as a time and motion study.
For our purposes here, a **time and motion study** is a technique used to analyze both the duration each step in a manufacturing process will take coupled with the mechanical and manual labor involved to complete each task. By describing and studying an entire assembly procedure and each incremental step within it, a company is able to design, map, plan, budget, schedule, and standardize its processes effectively. Additionally, the more thorough the study is, the more accurately the quoting of the assembly services should be. Further, once an assembly process is established, periodic analyses can identify areas of improvement, which may include time efficiencies, the elimination of wasted motion, automating certain tasks, and an increase in the overall effectiveness of the system.
When conducting a time and motion study in the plastic injection molding context, the same general methodology is taken, while factoring in certain considerations unique to the industry. Regardless of the type of assembly required, one of the first steps in the analysis probably will include a determination of whether the assembly can be performed at some point during the production process and, if so, at what stage and location within the facilities the work can be conducted in the most efficient and effective manner.
Next, the supplier might work on the sequencing of the manufacturing and assembly processes. This calculation can be fairly simple, or it might require more complexity. For example, if the assembly a molder is performing only includes combining two different parts they are producing, the review might include which part to manufacture first; how to stage finished parts by the molding machine producing the second parts; what the method of affixing the two parts together entails (e.g., gluing); what equipment, tools and fixtures are required; what the estimated molding cycle time for the second part will be; any cooling or curing time needed for the either part; any necessary surface prep work; what movements will be involved in the actual bonding; any finishing work, labeling or cleaning required; what inspections are specified; and how to package the final assembly. And, that’s just a simple process! A more complex assembly procedure can involve multiple components, numerous steps, and the need for outside vendors.
Two obvious benefits to having your molder perform some or all of your product’s assembly is that it often is faster and cheaper than sending the molded parts, along with other items, to an outside assembly services vendor. Having parts and components combined by molding machine operators, who might be handling the parts as they are produced anyway, can eliminate unnecessary steps, such as additional packaging and shipping. This usually translates into lower costs and shorter lead times.
Product assembly can be a complex procedure involving multiple items, equipment and processes. As such, performing a thorough time and motion study at the beginning of a program launch can provide valuable perspective and expectations, in addition to discovering cost savings and lead time reductions. Accordingly, any accurate estimating of assembly services should employ this practice.
If you have parts being manufactured by a plastic injection molding supplier, be sure to inquire about any assembly services they might offer and how they arrive at their figures. You might be pleasantly surprised that the review of time and motion often translates into less time and money.
If you would like more information, please do not hesitate to [contact us](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/contact-us/). We’re here to help.
---
# Interchangeable Inserts
Source: https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/blog/interchangeable-inserts.md
What do you do when you have a part to be injection molded, but it needs to be in a couple of slightly different sizes? Or, how about having different versions of a part where some features move locations or change just a bit? In other words, what are the tooling options for similar but differing parts? Of course, you can’t change the size or configuration of a steel mold… Or, can you?
Naturally, one approach to molding different, but not identical, parts is to build separate molds for each. Alternatively, a family mold with cavities and cores for each part could be built, too. However, one option is to build only one mold that has interchangeable inserts.
A plastic injection mold with **interchangeable inserts** has different, removable, internal cavities and cores that bolt into the mold base. This can be a cost-effective approach to tooling and molding for multiple parts with slightly different sizes and configurations.
One of the clear cost savings regarding tooling comes from the fact that only one mold base and set of internal components has to be purchased, although the materials for each cavity and core must be obtained (of course). Also, the mold builder doesn’t have to perform all the work to fabricate several different molds but only needs to create one plus the necessary inserts. So, the time and labor to build one mold with interchangeable inserts should be quite a bit less than it would be to make many complete molds.
On the manufacturing side, having one mold that produces a part with multiple variations by using different inserts can save time on production, because only one complete mold set-up is required. Obviously, the inserts need to be changed between production runs, but that generally is much quicker than taking a mold out of a machine and installing a completely new one, considering all that entails (e.g., placing the mold in the machine with a forklift or crane, hooking up water lines).
While interchangeable inserts may present some advantages to other methods toward molding similar parts, there are some caveats to keep in mind. First, not all parts with related features are good candidates for this approach, because their unique geometries might preclude it for some reason. Additionally, when utilizing interchangeable inserts, the different parts will be produced consecutively, whereas they would be made concurrently using a family mold, for instance. So, the manufacturing time will be longer, which might affect part prices. Also, if the demand is too high for the parts, this method might not be practical, although it may fit into a [bridge tooling](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/blog/top-10-reasons-to-build-bridge-tooling/) approach nicely, at the beginning of a program.
Further, if you are considering having a mold with interchangeable inserts built, make sure the inserts can be changed while the mold is in the molding machine, if at all possible. If the mold needs to be removed from the machine, taken to the tooling department for the insert change, and then brought back to the production floor and re-set up, that clearly requires additional, wasted labor and time, which eliminates much of the manufacturing efficiencies achieved otherwise.
In sum, for a part with several similar versions and relatively moderate production demand, building and using a plastic injection mold with interchangeable inserts sometimes provides certain efficiencies and economies. Accordingly, keep the option in mind in case the opportunity ever presents itself.
If you would like more information on this subject or on anything else related to plastic injection molding, visit our [Resource Center](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/resources/) or please don’t hesitate to [contact us](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/contact-us/). We look forward to speaking with you.
---
# Bioplastics & Injection Molding
Source: https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/blog/bioplastics-injection-molding.md
As the interest in environmentally-friendly business and consumer practices increases, so does the desire for novel approaches and greater efforts towards addressing the issues surrounding plastic manufacturing, usage, waste, recycling and management. As part of that discussion, the term bioplastics is being used more frequently. What exactly does the expression mean, what are the issues and options associated with it, and how does it fit into a modern ecologically-sound commercial framework? As with most complex topics, the answers are somewhat complicated and are not unanimously agreed upon, although we attempt to review the basics in this article.
**FACTORS**
To begin with, there are two main factors associated with bioplastics. While often used somewhat synonymously, they actually are distinct concepts. The difference between the two ideas is fairly straightforward, as one deals with what can be referred to as the **beginning-of-life** of a material, with the other covering the **end-of-life** of a product.
**Biobased**
The first factor related to bioplastics is whether the material is **biobased**, which means the source is a **biomass** or that some or all the raw materials have a biological origin (i.e., plant or animal material). In other words, the source has a non-fossil origin. According to the [U.S. Department of Agriculture](https://href.li/?https://www.biopreferred.gov/BPResources/files/UnderstandingBiobasedContent_2017.pdf) (USDA), “Biobased content is how much ‘new’ or recent organic carbon is in an object or substance, compared to the amount of ‘old’ organic carbon it contains.” Put slightly differently, “the term biomass covers all materials of biological origin, apart from fossil materials and/or those incorporated into geological formations.” ([Information Document 536 (EN) – 19.10](https://href.li/?https://www.tuv-at.be/fileadmin/user_upload/docs/download-documents/ID/ID-536_OKB_vs_NEN_EN.pdf), TUV Austria.) Thus, biobased products provide an alternative to conventional petroleum-derived products.
Basically, this refers to **[renewable resources](https://href.li/?https://www.nationalgeographic.org/encyclopedia/renewable-resources/)** (those that naturally can replenish themselves), as opposed to **[nonrenewable resources](https://href.li/?https://www.nationalgeographic.org/encyclopedia/nonrenewable-resources/)** (those that are limited in supply and cannot be used sustainably), which include oil, natural gas, coal, and nuclear energy. Oil, natural gas and coal collectively are referred to as **fossil fuels**, which were formed from dead plants and animals over millions of years - hence the USDA’s reference to “new” vs. “old.”
**Biodegradable**
The second aspect of bioplastics is whether the substance is **biodegradable**. As defined by the International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry (IUPAC), [biodegradation](https://href.li/?https://goldbook.iupac.org/terms/view/B00656) is the “breakdown of a substance catalysed by enzymes [macromolecules] *in vitro* [in a laboratory] or *in vivo* [in a living body].” Generally speaking, a material is [biodegradable](https://href.li/?https://www.betalabservices.com/biobased/astm-d6866.html) “only if microbes [i.e., microorganisms or microscopic organisms] in the environment can break it down and use it as a food source.” Further, whether and to what extent a material is biodegradable depends on its molecular structure and not on its source. More specifically for our purposes here, a [biodegradable plastic](https://href.li/?https://cdn.ymaws.com/uscc.site-ym.com/resource/resmgr/images/Compostable_Plastics_101_Pap.pdf) is “a plastic in which all the organic carbon can be converted into biomass, water, carbon dioxide, and/or methane via the action of naturally occurring microorganisms such as bacteria and fungi, in timeframes consistent with the ambient conditions of the disposal method.”
Additionally, although often used interchangeably, the terms biodegradable and compostable mean somewhat different things. While biodegradable means that a substance can decompose by bacteria or other living organisms, a [compostable plastic](https://href.li/?http://file.yizimg.com/175706/2011090910321097.pdf) is defined by the ASTM as “a plastic that undergoes degradation by biological processes *during composting* to yield carbon dioxide (CO2), water, inorganic compounds, and biomass at a rate consistent with other known compostable materials and that leaves no visible, distinguishable, or toxic residue.” (Emphasis added.) Thus, all compostable materials are biodegradable, but not all biodegradable materials are compostable. Additionally, most compostability definitions refer to industrial or commercial composting facilities, although some include home composting programs.
**TYPES OF BIOPLASTICS**
Using the two elements of biobased and biodegradable, there can be three different types of bioplastics.
**1) Biobased Plastics.** Resins that are biobased are derived in whole or in part from **organic materials** from plants or animals (i.e., a biomass). Not all biobased plastics are biodegradable.
**2) Biodegradable Plastics.** Plastics that are biodegradable can be chemically broken down by microorganisms in the environment within a limited period of time. Also, note that some biodegradable plastics have a non-biobased source, like petroleum, contrary to popular belief.
**3) Biobased and Biodegradable Plastics.** Some bioplastics are both biodegradable and are partially or wholly made from a biobased source.
**BIOCOMPOSITES**
Another type of material included within the category of bioplastics are compounds or composites containing a combination of substances.
A **composite** is a material that is produced from two or more constituent materials having different physical or chemical properties. Further, a **biocomposite** is formed by polymers derived from renewable (i.e., having a biological origin) and nonrenewable materials. In addition, composites usually include a combination of resin (a matrix or binding agent) and a fiber reinforcement, which can consist of either natural or synthetic fibers. Biocomposites generally contain a petroleum-based plastic and an organic filler, although some combine natural fibers with biobased or biodegradable resins. Further, natural fibers include wood fibers (recycled and non-recycled) and non-wood fibers, including straw, bast, leaf, seed, fruit, and grass.
**RECYCLING PLASTICS**
Another important topic included within the discussion on bioplastics is that of recycling. According to the [CalRecycle Glossary of Waste Prevention Terms](https://href.li/?https://www.calrecycle.ca.gov/reducewaste/define), the term **recycling** means “using waste as material to manufacture a new product. Recycling involves altering the physical form of an object or material and making a new object from the altered material.” Correspondingly, the [ASTM](https://href.li/?http://file.yizimg.com/175706/2011090910321097.pdf) defines **recycled plastic** as “those plastics composed of postconsumer material or recovered material only, or both, that may or may not have been subject to additional processing steps of the types used to make products such as recycled-regrind or reprocessed or reconstituted plastics.”
Generally speaking, there are [three end-of-life options](https://href.li/?https://op.europa.eu/en/publication-detail/-/publication/33251cf9-3b0b-11e9-8d04-01aa75ed71a1/language-en/format-PDF/source-87705298) for recycling plastics - mechanical recycling, chemical recycling, and organic recycling. Mechanical recycling basically consists of melting plastic waste, which does not alter the molecular structure of the material. Chemical recycling modifies the plastic with the use of a chemical agent or process. Finally, organic recycling involves the disintegration of plastic materials in a municipal or industrial composting facility via aerobic (composting) or anaerobic (biomethanization) treatment. The output of these recycling efforts often consists of bioplastic granules that can be used to make plastic products (thus becoming a beginning-of-life option), thereby completing the circular recycling process or loop.
Additionally, according to the US [Environmental Protection Agency](https://href.li/?https://www.epa.gov/trash-free-waters/frequently-asked-questions-about-plastic-recycling-and-composting) (EPA), “The ability of biobased plastics to be recycled varies. Some forms of biobased plastic cannot be recycled together with petroleum-based plastics due to chemical structure incompatibility, while other biobased plastics may have compatible chemical structures that allow for recycling together with petroleum-based plastics.”
**TESTING & CERTIFICATIONS**
In the United States, there are certain standards, legal requirements and labeling guidelines relating to the different kinds of bioplastics.
**Biobased Bioplastics**
Because some bioplastics are not entirely made from a biomass, there are [two approaches](https://href.li/?https://www.tuv-at.be/fileadmin/user_upload/docs/download-documents/ID/ID-536_OKB_vs_NEN_EN.pdf) to analyzing their composition. First, you can look at the “**biobased content**, based on the amount of biomass in a product, taking account of the four key components: carbon, hydrogen, oxygen and nitrogen; The bio-based content is expressed as a percentage of the overall weight of the product in question.” Alternatively, “the **biobased carbon content** is focused on carbon and is generally expressed as a percentage of the carbon the product contains (organic carbon or total carbon).” (See [ASTM D6866](https://href.li/?https://www.astm.org/Standards/D6866.htm) and [ISO 16620-1:2015](https://href.li/?https://www.iso.org/standard/63766.html).)
To determine the biobased content of a product and whether it can be certified as such, the USDA uses the requirements set forth in ASTM D6866. Additionally, as part of its [BioPreferred](https://href.li/?https://www.biopreferred.gov/) program, the USDA maintains a voluntary labeling initiative where businesses may display the **USDA Certified Biobased Product** label on products that meet the USDA criteria for containing a verified amount of renewable biological ingredients (i.e., biobased content).
**Compostable Bioplastics**
In [California](https://href.li/?https://oag.ca.gov/sites/all/files/agweb/pdfs/environment/ag_website_environmental_claims.pdf) and in some other states, it is illegal to use the term “biodegradable” in marketing claims related to plastic products, because the expression often is used to describe items that do not meet ASTM standards for compostability and, therefore, are contaminants for composters. In addition, for a label to state a product is “compostable” or “marine degradable,” that product must meet the applicable ASTM standard.
In the United States, for plastics to be considered compostable, they must be certified according to ASTM [D6400](https://href.li/?http://www.astm.org/Standards/D6400.htm) (or ASTM D6868 for biodegradable coatings). As stated by the standard, “The purpose of this specification is to establish standards for identifying products and materials that will compost satisfactorily in commercial and municipal composting facilities.” D6400 specifies three criteria for compostable plastics: (1) Disintegration; (2) Mineralization or Inherent Biodegradation; and (3) Safety considerations. It also creates labeling requirements for compostable materials.
Regarding labeling, the Biodegradable Products Institute (BPI) has created a [compostable logo](https://href.li/?https://bpiworld.org/BPI-Public/Program.html) to place on products that meet the applicable ASTM specification. The BPI is the only third-party verification of ASTM standards for compostable products in North America. In addition, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has adopted the Guides for the Use of Environmental Marketing Claims or the [Green Guides](https://href.li/?https://www.ftc.gov/sites/default/files/documents/federal_register_notices/guides-use-environmental-marketing-claims-green-guides/greenguidesfrn.pdf), which govern the marketing of environmentally friendly products and the use of certifications, seals and claims regarding the attributes of the associated products.
**PURPORTED BENEFITS**
Although a consensus does not appear to exist, there are many claims regarding the present and potential benefits of bioplastics. Some of the commonly discussed ones include:
• They save fossil resources by using biomass.
• Many are biodegradable.
• Bioplastic production consumes less fossil energy.
• Bioplastic production has fewer carbon dioxide emissions.
• Bioplastic production can help reduce dependence on imports and may create jobs and export opportunities.
• Use of bioplastics results in a reduction of our carbon footprint.
• Bioplastic usage reduces the global warming potential.
• Biobased products help us increase our use of renewable resources, while decreasing our use of non-renewable resources, such as petroleum.
• There is an alleged decrease in environmental toxicity.
• There is a potential reduction in litter and in the amount of trash sent to landfills.
• Bioplastics are cost-comparative, readily available, and perform as well or better than their petroleum-containing counterparts.
• The bioplastics industry is making a strong effort to use agricultural residues (cellulosics), other waste streams, and feedstocks that do not compete with food markets.
**POSSIBLE ISSUES**
In addition to the intended benefits of bioplastics, some people have expressed concerns regarding their impact on the environment or regarding their alleged advantage over other materials. Some of those issues include the following:
• Questions have been raised about the relative toxicity of bioplastics to conventional plastics.
• Some non-biobased plastics are biodegradable.
• Some biobased plastics are non-biodegradable.
• Bioplastic production consumes fossil energy and has carbon dioxide emissions.
• Bioplastics production results in pollutants, due to the fertilizers and pesticides used in growing the crops and the chemical processing needed to turn organic material into plastic.
• Bioplastics have some impact on food supply and availability.
• Most bioplastics can be broken down by microorganisms and become part of the natural world again in a short period of time, only if they are collected and composted in a carefully controlled, high-temperature industrial composting facility — and there aren’t many of those, especially in developing countries where the problem of plastic pollution is most severe.
• If bioplastics end up in landfills, as many do, without enough oxygen to break them down, they can last for centuries and release methane, a potent greenhouse gas.
• If bioplastics are thrown into the environment, they pose threats similar to other plastics.
• Many experts believe the solution to plastic waste mainly lies not in developing better bioplastics, but in overhauling the world’s economy to recycle far-greater quantities of plastic than currently are being reused.
To make these kinds of determinations, many analysts perform a [Life Cycle Assessment](https://href.li/?https://web.archive.org/web/20120306122239/http://www.epa.gov/nrmrl/std/lca/lca.html) (LCA), which is a data gathering and analysis tool that broadly assesses environmental benefits and burdens of a product. This approach is utilized by the [EPA](https://href.li/?https://search.epa.gov/epasearch/?querytext=life+cycle+assessment&areaname=&areacontacts=&areasearchurl=&typeofsearch=epa&result_template=2col.ftl&referer=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.epa.gov%2Fhome%2Fpage-not-found#/), for example. The procedures followed for an LCA often are those contained within the [14000 series](https://href.li/?https://www.iso.org/iso-14001-environmental-management.html) of the International Organization for Standardization (ISO).
**INJECTION MOLDING**
Bioplastics can be used in many of the same ways as other plastics - for packaging, parts, components, disposables, durable goods, etc. Additionally, they can play a role in products associated with many different industries, such as agriculture, automotive, medical, food and beverage, and consumer goods.
When it comes to injection molding, bioplastics can have unique characteristics and perform in ways distinct from petroleum-based plastics. Thus, while the same general principles apply, to achieve quality, injection molded, bioplastic parts efficiently and consistently, some different approaches may need to be taken when building molds and certain modified processes utilized when manufacturing parts.
However, adequate experience working with these materials can result in producing parts historically thought to be achievable only by using traditional plastics. For example, [Precision Molded Plastics](https://href.li/?https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/bioplastics/) manufactures bioplastic parts with durable living hinges (as shown in the image at the top of this article), which generally need to be made from polypropylene. Further, maintaining a good, working relationship with bioplastic manufacturers can be indispensable during the research and development phase of a new project using bioresins.
**CONCLUSION**
The awareness of environmental issues and desire to adopt ecologically-friendly business and lifestyle approaches is widespread and growing. As part of this trend, attention has been focused on plastic usage and waste management. Consequently, many in the public and private sectors have worked on developing sophisticated recycling systems. In addition, research into biobased and biodegradable materials and the manufacturing and utilization of bioresins have increased. While a complete consensus about the potential benefits of these materials may not exist, using bioplastics, coupled with greater recycling methodologies and adoption, may assist in achieving a cleaner world, a healthier population, and a better tomorrow.
**Questions?**
Feel free to [contact](https://href.li/?https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/contact-us/) our support team. We’re here to help.
–
**NOTICE**
This article is intended to give a relatively academic and objective, although brief, summary of the topics and considerations related to bioplastics. It was not written or published to advocate for any specific viewpoint or for the use of any particular type of materials.
Virtually all products impact the environment. Accordingly, Precision Molded Plastics makes no express or implied claims regarding the biomass content, the biodegradability, or any environmental attributes or benefits of any of the products with which it is associated, or of bioplastics in general, or of any comparative advantage of bioplastics to other materials, and any such information must and should be obtained directly from the plastic resin manufacturers.
For more information, go to https://www.usda.gov, https://www.epa.gov, https://www.energy.gov, or https://www.calrecycle.ca.gov.
–
👉🏻 Click [here](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Bioplastics_and_Injection_Molding_Precision_2023.pdf) for a printable version of this article.
---
# Additives for Plastic Injection Molding
Source: https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/blog/additives-for-plastic-injection-molding.md
The plastics used for injection molding come in a variety of types, grades and chemical compositions. Each has its own unique properties and, thus, there are differences in their performance and in how they interact with the world. These resin characteristics are primarily why they are chosen as the base material for a particular part or component (cost being another common consideration). However, while a certain polymer may fit most of the requirements of a particular product, a need might exist for an additional quality the plastic does not contain. That’s where additives come in.
Additives for plastic injection molding are substances that are added to and bond with the base resin of a part in order to create a compound with certain modified or additional properties the basic polymer did not have by itself. Generally speaking, additives are used to enhance the appearance or performance of a part; to increase a material’s stability or flexibility; to facilitate or optimize production methods; or to extend the service life of a product. Further, additives have varying degrees of compatibility with different plastics (i.e., all additives will not mix well with or create the same qualities in all resins). A plastic additive can be in the form of a liquid, powder or pellet.
One note, by the way, is that plastic injection molding uses two types of materials - thermoplastics and thermosets. [Thermoplastics](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Wheel_of_Thermoplastics_Precision_2023.pdf) can be melted and reshaped repeatedly, whereas thermosets are irreversibly hardened by curing from a soft solid or viscous liquid. Here, we will focus our attention on thermoplastics.
While there are myriad types of plastic additives, it can be helpful to visualize them in certain categories, although many can be placed into more than one classification, similar to movies fitting into multiple genres. With that being said, most additives fit into at least one of the following ten categories.
**Light**
Additives associated with light can be used to reflect, diffuse, filter, absorb or resist the harmful or aging effects of natural or other sources of light within various frequencies, wavelengths and amplitudes (e.g., infrared). In other words, these light stabilizers protect a part from photodegradation. Other materials also can be added to polymers to create a part that is laser markable.
**Weather**
Substances often are added to resins to guard against atmospheric conditions. These can include UV rays, radiation (i.e., electromagnetic waves), water, and extreme temperatures. Results can include a reduction in the alteration, fading or degradation of materials.
**Temperature**
Heat-related additives (e.g., ceramic fillers and mineral reinforced additives) include those that are fire retardant, flame resistant or that otherwise protect a part from high temperatures. Creating a higher melting temperature generally gives a material greater creep resistance (or a reduction in deformation under stress). Additionally, extreme cold can cause a plastic part to become brittle or crack. Accordingly, plasticizers, which increase the part’s flexibility and elasticity, or chemicals designed to lower a material’s freezing point (thereby adding to its stability) can be combined with a polymer. Thus, these types of additives can extend the operating temperature range of plastic materials. Also, some substances can increase a part’s thermal conductivity.
**Processing**
Some additives are included in a compound to assist with the injection molding process. These can include blowing agents, foaming agents, and mold release agents. Additionally, lubricants can be added to plastics to help with manufacturing or to increase the desired performance of the part.
**Chemical**
There are a variety of additives relating to resisting material degradation or contamination caused by other chemical agents, such as antioxidants and antimicrobials. In addition, some substances contribute to the chemical compatibility of parts used in the food and beverage, medical and other industries.
**Moisture**
Some additives are considered or used specifically in relation to water, whether in its liquid or gas (vapor) form. These include moisture resistant or repellent substances, which can provide anti-stain, non-leaching and non-wearing attributes.
**Physical**
Many plastic additives are used to modify the physical, structural or mechanical properties of a part. These can be designed to increase the strength, hardness, softness, durability or rigidity of a resin. Alternatively, there are those that enhance a resin’s elasticity, flexibility or impact resistance. Also, some additives can be utilized to adjust the mass or weight of a part either up or down.
**Visual**
As a variation on some other categories, certain additives simply affect the appearance or aesthetic characteristics of a plastic part. Probably the most common of these are colorants - in the form of dyes and pigments - which can create a polymer in virtually any hue. In addition to standard colors, there are optical brighteners, those that glow in the dark, or those that create variegated effects (e.g., marbling), shimmer effects (e.g., pearlescent, iridescent), or sparkle effects (e.g., metallic, reflective). There also are thermochromic colorants, where colors change due to an increase or decrease in temperature, and photochromic colors that change with exposure to light. Likewise, some additives can modify the clarity of a part.
**Bioplastics**
Another relatively modern category of additives are bioplastics, which include biobased and biodegradable resins. Additionally, an assortment of recycled materials, agricultural bioproducts, natural fibers and biocomposites are being added to traditional plastics in order to create a more eco-friendly end product. Bioresins themselves also can serve as the base material for a part.
**Electrical**
Certain plastics need an additive to make parts antistatic or, alternatively, to be electrically conductive. In addition, some components have security, traceability or identification requirements, where additives can provide X-ray detectability or radio-frequency identification (RFID), for example.
**Conclusion**
Plastic injection molding utilizes a wide range of polymers with various qualities and characteristics. However, many parts and components have specific requirements their base resins cannot precisely meet by themselves, despite otherwise being the best candidate for a product. When this occurs, substances collectively known as additives can be blended with the basic material to create a compound with modified or added properties. Accordingly, plastic additives can optimize an injection molded part’s performance or appearance, and they should be considered when designing and developing a new project.
–
**Want more information?**
Check out this supplementary [infographic](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Additives_Infographic_Precision_2023.pdf) →
**Questions?**
Feel free to [contact](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/contact-us/) our support team. We’re here to help.
---
# Why You Need an ISO-Certified Molder
Source: https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/blog/why-you-need-an-iso-certified-molder.md
When looking for a plastic injection molder, there are certain “check boxes” you most likely include in your search criteria. You might seek out a molder that has reasonable prices, good communication and customer service, modern equipment and technology, and a sufficient level of experience. These qualities certainly can help to increase the chances that the molder you choose will be able to produce the product you had envisioned, but are these alone enough to guarantee you consistently will be provided with high-quality product, within your requested delivery time-frames, with appropriate documentation and traceability?
It is interesting to note that International Organization for Standardization (ISO) requirements truly lead a company to attaining these goals. ISO standards, particularly ISO-9001, provide guidelines for creating a quality system that ensures consistency of the order fulfillment process in its entirety. This is accomplished through judiciously documented instructions for all major processes, such as design and development, order processing, production, inspection, shipment, handling of customer feedback, review of non-conforming product, etc. Adherence to these instructions and associated requirements is enforced through continuous evaluations (e.g., internal audits and management reviews).
Additionally, ISO guidelines include requirements for an organization to scrutinize its processes through comparison of current industry standards and practices against the company’s current state. This helps to ensure that the ISO-certified company keeps abreast of new technologies and techniques and strives to align with or exceed applicable requirements. The goals are continuous improvement and growth, openly reaching out for new opportunities, and being aware of risks and mitigating them through thoughtful planning.
Implementing an ISO-certified Quality Management System (QMS) is not easy. It takes time, effort, thought, energy, and dedication. Operating under a certified QMS may seem cumbersome or even superfluous to established firms who have manufactured product for years without a quality system. Many injection molders are not ISO-certified for this very reason. It takes diligence and foresight to change this mindset, though the benefits of certification are numerous – from substantial reduction in customer complaints to increased efficiency, business growth, and even higher employee satisfaction and retention.
Buyers can have confidence in an ISO-recognized molder knowing they and their processes have been audited by independent third parties and certified to be in conformance with ISO standards. Fundamentally, an ISO-certified plastic injection molder who understands and adheres to ISO guidelines is one who can provide valuable input to enhance the design, manufacturability and, ultimately, the selling potential of your product. Accordingly, when looking for a new molder, be sure to have ISO certification as one of the requirements on your list.
---
# Economic Order Quantity
Source: https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/blog/economic-order-quantity.md
Determining the best approach toward purchasing materials from your suppliers can be challenging. How often should you order, and how many parts should you order at a time? What’s too much, and what’s too little? You don’t want to have a warehouse full of unused items, but you don’t want to run out of product, either. Luckily, there’s a relatively straightforward method for calculating this.
The **Economic Order Quantity** (EOQ) is a formula designed to identify the optimal amount of goods to order that minimizes costs related to purchasing, delivery, receiving and storage of inventory while concurrently matching demand and, thus, maximizing profitability. This model relates to inventory management, production scheduling, and cash flow, and it helps to determine a company’s inventory reorder point. Additionally, it assumes the demand rate, ordering habits, holding costs, and lead times all remain constant. Generally speaking, the analysis is performed based on annual numbers.
Purchasing costs are those related to the actual placing and processing of an order for product. Outbound handling, shipping and receiving of orders have direct and ancillary expenses, too. Additionally, holding or carrying costs refers to the expense of storing inventory, which includes those related to shrink (stolen or missing goods), scrap (damaged goods), the actual storage space, utilities, labor, and insurance. These costs also include the time and resources spent and associated with performing the task.
The goal here is to determine your Goldilocks point for ordering parts. Order too many parts, and they become dollar bills sitting on warehouse shelves collecting dust, instead of providing the company some value elsewhere (i.e., opportunity costs). However, ordering too few parts can result in shortages, delays, unhappy customers, and lost profits. So, the desire is to order the right amount to meet demand while minimizing costs.
The EOQ is calculated by using the following formula:
EOQ = √2DS/H
The variables in the formula are as follows:
D = Demand in units (or estimated annual usage)
S = Order cost (per purchase order)
H = Holding or carrying costs (per unit, per year)
So, to use a fairly simple example, if the annual demand is 2,500 units, the cost per purchase order is $10, and the annual holding cost per unit is $5, the EOQ formula would be applied like this:
(2 x 2,500 x $10) / $5
50,000 / $5
10,000
Square root of 10,000 = 100 EOQ
Therefore, by ordering 100 units every time you place an order, you will minimize your costs while meeting demand, provided the assumptions mentioned above hold true. In addition, this allows us to compute the number of orders to be placed each year. Using the same example, that would be done like this:
Annual Demand / EOQ
2,500 / 100
25 orders per year
For quick computations, check out this online [EOQ calculator](https://href.li/?http://www.ultimatecalculators.com/economic_order_quantity_calculator.html).
Finally, there are some limitations with this approach in that some of the elements (e.g., customer demand) actually do fluctuate in the real world, potential quality issues are not included, and other variables, like quantity discounts, can affect the analysis. Nevertheless, the presumptions do not have to be exact, and allowances can be made for variations. Fundamentally, just having a basic understanding of the Economic Order Quantity model should contribute to more efficient materials purchasing and more effective inventory management, which results in greater overall profitability.
---
# Contact Us
Source: https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/contact-us.md
# Contact Us
🚚 **Transferring Molds? **Find out about our [Effortless Mold Transfers](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/services/transfer-your-molds/).▶️ **New Project?** Visit our [Request A Quote](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/request-a-quote/) page to submit your information.💼 **Employment Inquiry?** Go to our [Careers](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/careers/) page for open positions.🗨️ **General Question?**  Use the form on this page.
### Office/Mailing Address
880 W. 9th Street
Upland, California 91786
### MAIN PHONE & EMAIL
909-981-9662 [info@precisionmoldedplastics.com](mailto:info@precisionmoldedplastics.com)
### Shipping & Receiving
884 W. 9th Street
Upland, California 91786
### Office Hours
Monday-Friday 8:00am-5:00pm Saturday-Sunday CLOSED
## GENERAL/SUPPLIER INQUIRIES
---
# Request A Quote
Source: https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/request-a-quote.md
# Request For Quote
Since 1979, our success has come from focusing on high-volume, custom plastic injection molding of small to midsize parts and components. If your program needs parts no larger than approximately 12" x 18", please complete and submit the secure RFQ form below, and we will respond within one business day.
---
# Resource Center
Source: https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/resources.md
# Resource Center
**Welcome to our Resource Center! Feel free to browse through the guides, checklists, articles and more. All content is free and ungated, and we hope it will assist you in getting the most out of your plastic injection molding.
**
**
**
If we can answer any questions or provide you with more information, don’t hesitate to [contact us](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/contact-us/). We’re here to help.
## Blog
[PLASTIC INJECTION MOLDING BLOG](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/blog/) Learn about injection molding, tooling, plastics and more.
## Charts
[PLASTIC INJECTION MOLDING MATERIALS](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Plastic_Injection_Molding_Materials_Precision_2023.pdf) Download this helpful guide to common thermoplastic polymers. [PLASTIC FINISHES & TEXTURES](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Plastic_Finishes_and_Textures_Precision_2023.pdf) Learn about the differences between surface finishes and textures with this quick guide. [PLASTIC SHRINKAGE](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Plastic_Shrinkage_mm_Precision_2023.pdf) Get this handy guide to the shrinkage of common thermoplastics ([inches](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Plastic_Shrinkage_inch_Precision_2023.pdf) or [millimeters](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Plastic_Shrinkage_mm_Precision_2023.pdf)).
## Checklists
[DFM CHECKLIST](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/DFM_Checklist_Precision_2023.pdf) Get this helpful checklist to guide your review of DFM study reports. [PART DRAWING CHECKLIST](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Part_Drawing_Checklist_Precision_2023.pdf) Make sure your print contains all the necessary data with this checklist containing over 100 items!
[RFQ CHECKLIST](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/RFQ_Checklist_for_Plastic_Injection_Molding_Precision_2023.pdf) Three pages of information! Over 200 different items! [TOOLING RELOCATION CHECKLIST](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Tooling_Relocation_Checklist_Precision_2023.pdf) Ensure a smooth and efficient transfer of molds with this detailed checklist.
## COMPANY DOCUMENTS
[CORPORATE BROCHURE](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Corporate_Brochure_Precision_2023.pdf) Learn about our custom manufacturing solutions and what sets Precision apart from other suppliers. [COMPANY PROFILE](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Plastics_Technology_March-2024_Precision_Decision.pdf) Check out the cover story about us in Plastics Technology magazine. [SERVICES & CAPABILITIES SHEET](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Services_and_Capabilities_Precision_2023.pdf) Download a data sheet to see all our services and capability specifications. [ISO CERTIFICATE](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Precision_Multi_Site_ISO_9001_2015.pdf) Download a copy of our ISO 9001:2015 certificate. [QUALITY POLICY](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Precision_Multi_Site_ISO_9001_2015.pdf) Our quality policy and the framework for organizational excellence. [HUMAN RIGHTS POLICY](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Human_Rights_Policy_Precision_2023.pdf) Precision's policy regarding human rights and ethical business conduct.
## DATA SHEETS
[SUPPLIER DATA SHEET](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Supplier_Data_Sheet_Precision_2023.pdf) One page document with a brief overview of the company. [CUSTOM MOLD BUILDING](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Custom_Mold_Building_Precision_2023.pdf) Complete tooling solutions for plastic injection molding. [PLASTIC INJECTION MOLDING](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Injection_Molding_Precision_2023.pdf) High volume, precision plastics manufacturing. [SECONDARY OPERATIONS](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Value-Added_Services_Precision_2023.pdf) Finishing and value-added services. [RESHORING & RELOCATION](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Reshoring_and_Relocation_Precision_2023.pdf) Learn about our effortless mold transfer program. [BIOPLASTICS](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Bioplastics_Precision_2023.pdf) Eco-friendly injection molding.
## FAQ
[FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/faqs/) Get answers to some of the commonly asked questions about our streamlined manufacturing process.
## Forms
[PROGRAM DATA SHEET](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Program_Data_Sheet_Plastic_Injection_Molding_Precision_2023_Fill-in.pdf) Download this form for compiling all the relevant information on your injection molding program.
## Glossary
[PLASTIC INJECTION MOLDING GLOSSARY](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/glossary/) Learn about common plastic injection molding concepts and terminology.
## Guides
[INTRODUCTION TO PLASTIC INJECTION MOLDING](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Introduction_to_Plastic_Injection_Molding_Precision_2023.pdf) A beginner's guide to plastic injection molding. [THE BASICS OF CAD PART MODELING & FILE TYPES](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/The_Basics_of_CAD_Part_Modeling_and_File_Types_Precision_2023.pdf) Get an introduction to computer part modeling and insight into the best format for your project. [BUYER'S GUIDE TO ANALYZING PLASTIC INJECTION MOLDING QUOTES](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Guide_to_Analyzing_Plastic_Injection_Molding_Quotes_Precision_2023.pdf) The top ten factors to consider when comparing plastic injection molding proposals. [ADDITIVES FOR PLASTIC INJECTION MOLDING](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Additives_for_Plastic_Injection_Molding_Precision_2023.pdf) Discover the different types and effects of additives for injection molding. [INTRODUCTION TO BIOPLASTICS & INJECTION MOLDING](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Bioplastics_and_Injection_Molding_Precision_2023.pdf) Learn about biobased and biodegradable resins and what the options are for your injection molding. [COMMON PART DEFECTS](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Common_Part_Defects_Precision_2023.pdf) A quick guide to the definitions, causes and remedies for frequently experienced quality issues.
## Infographics
[WHEEL OF THERMOPLASTICS](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Wheel_of_Thermoplastics_Precision_2023.pdf) A visual overview of commodity and engineering thermoplastics, elastomers, and blends. [BRIDGE TOOLING INFOGRAPHIC](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Bridge_Tooling_Infographic_Precision_2023.pdf) The top ten reasons for building molds to bridge the gap between prototyping and high volume production.
[ADDITIVES INFOGRAPHIC](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Additives_Infographic_Precision_2023.pdf) An infographic supplement to our guide to plastic injection molding additives.
[10 STAGES IN THE LIFE OF A PLASTIC INJECTION MOLDING PROJECT](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Life_of_an_Injection_Molding_Project_Infographic_Precision_2023.jpg) Starting a new injection molding project? Find out what to expect with this infographic.
[PART DESIGN INFOGRAPHIC](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Part_Design_Infographic_Precision_2023.pdf) Some helpful tips and considerations when designing new parts to be injection molded.
[PART DECORATION INFOGRAPHIC](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Part_Decoration_Infographic_Precision_2023.pdf) A quick summary of the top ten methods for decorating plastic injection molded parts.
[FLAMMABILITY RATING INFOGRAPHIC](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Flammability_Rating_Infographic_Precision_2023.pdf) A visual reference to the common industry standard for the flame rating of resins.
[PRODUCING MOLDED PARTS INFOGRAPHIC](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Producing_Molded_Parts_Infographic_Precision_2023.pdf) An infographic outlining the ten easy steps to producing plastic injection molded parts.
## Links
[LINKTREE](https://linktr.ee/pmp) A convenient list of our most popular resources and social media accounts.
[WINDOW SCREEN WICKETS](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Wickets_Flyer_Precision_2023.pdf) Our own high-quality product available for wholesale purchasing.
[MINIATURE BILLBOARDS](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Miniature_Billboards_2025.pdf) Check out these unique sales tools and memorable presentation pieces.
## News & Events
[CALENDAR](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/news-and-events/) Check out the latest Precision news and events.
## Templates
[BILL OF MATERIALS TEMPLATE](https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/13M0_ExdIHnWmTyXr72AReW9JgnLJCrEB0iIQKom7blw/edit#gid=218876884) Download this free template for plastic injection molding and keep your project organized!
Get notified when new resources are added
---
# Bioplastics
Source: https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/services/bioplastics.md
# BIOPLASTIC INJECTION MOLDING
## Use eco-friendly materials for your parts!
Learn More
### Mold Building
### Injection Molding
### New Product Launches
### Convert To Bioresins
## You care about the environment but need injection molded parts.
So, what do you do?
-
Plastic parts historically are produced with petroleum-based materials
-
Few injection molders have experience with bioplastics
-
There's uncertainty about the quality, performance and characteristics of bioresins
-
Renewable and recyclable materials are thought to be more expensive than other plastics
Precision has the experience with bioplastics and the necessary resources to help you develop a profitable bioplastic injection molding program.
Learn More
## Your Plan for Using Bioplastic Injection Molding
### Development
We'll guide you through
developing a new program or
converting an existing one.
### Tooling
We'll build new molds or work
with your existing tooling.
### Mold Building
We'll manufacture parts with
ecofriendly resins that meet
your needs.
Learn More
> Precision has been an incredible partner to work with.
>>> Michael Vitale, Craft & Ride
### Use bioplastics for your injection molded parts, so you can demonstrate your commitment to a clean environment.
-
Play your part toward decreasing our reliance on non-renewable resources
-
Increase your brand’s reputation and competitive advantage by promoting your use of bioplastics
-
Convert existing products to bioresins based on quality, performance and pricing benefits
-
Manufacture parts with both plastics and bioplastics depending on program requirements
Learn More
### Are there really benefits to using
biobased polymers for injection molding?
Absolutely! The variety, performance and affordability of bioresins has increased greatly in recent years, and it continues to develop as new discoveries are made. Additionally, injection molded parts can be made from renewable plant-based sources, agricultural byproducts, biodegradable thermoplastics, compostable blends, and an assortment of recycled materials.
Let’s work together to reduce our impact on the environment and to contribute towards a cleaner, brighter future.
#### LEARN MORE ABOUT BIOPLASTIC INJECTION MOLDING
**Notice:** Virtually all products impact the environment. Accordingly, Precision makes no express or implied claims regarding the biomass content, the biodegradability, or any environmental attributes or benefits of any of the products with which it is associated, or of bioplastics in general, or of any comparative advantage of bioplastics to other materials, and any such information must and should be obtained directly from the plastic resin manufacturers. For more information, go to [https://www.usda.gov](https://www.usda.gov/), [https://www.energy.gov](https://www.energy.gov/), [https://www.epa.gov](https://www.epa.gov/), or [https://www.calrecycle.ca.gov](https://www.calrecycle.ca.gov/).
---
# Transfer Your Molds
Source: https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/services/transfer-your-molds.md
# EFFORTLESS MOLD TRANSFERS
## You could have good parts within days!
Learn More
### Injection Molding
### Tooling Fabrication
### Secondary Operations
### Guidance & Support
## You invested in tooling and need to get good parts
that consistently are delivered on time.But, there's a problem...
-
The existing supplier is undependable
-
There continue to be unresolved issues
-
Nobody seems to be able to help
-
The service you’re getting doesn’t justify the pricing
-
Delivery dates are missed, even with long lead times
-
You need services your vendor doesn’t offer
*Precision Molded Plastics provides services, resources and guidance to help you get the most out of your plastic injection molding.*
*And, Precision has competitive pricing, short lead times, and a long history of on time delivery.*
Learn More
## Your Plan for an Effortless Mold Transfer
### Submit Info
Provide basic contact
and mold info
### Get Pricing
We'll contact you the
same business day
### Get Parts
We'll handle the transfer
and produce parts
Learn More
> "Working with Precision Molded Plastics
> was a perfect experience."
>>> Nick Vitale, Craft & Ride
### With short lead times, on time delivery, and quality parts,
your plastic injection molding can be better than it has ever been.
-
Complimentary tooling inspection
-
A highly trained staff of experienced professionals
-
A fully equipped tooling department to repair, refurbish and maintain
molds to minimize manufacturing downtime
-
Proactive troubleshooting and preemptive problem solving
-
Automation and robotics for optimized production and competitive pricing
-
Friendly, helpful and accessible customer and tech support
Learn More
#### Can moving your molds really be that easy?
Well, we haven’t seen many molds leave, but we regularly manage the efficient and uneventful transfer of tooling to our facility. We can communicate and coordinate directly with the prior vendor, provide you with sample documents to facilitate the transition, send one of our trucks to pick up the molds, or simply receive them when they arrive, depending on your needs and preferences.
Once the tooling arrives at our plant, we conduct a thorough inspection and provide you with our findings and recommendations regarding repairs or refurbishments, if any.
Additionally, in situations like these, we’re used to lead times of yesterday, so we do everything we can to get you information, pricing, first article samples, and parts as quickly as possible.
#### TRANSFER YOUR MOLDS
---
# News & Events
Source: https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/news-and-events.md
# News & Events
NOV
10-11
2026
## ANAHEIM ELECTRONICS & MANUFACTURING SHOW / BOOTH 205-207
-
[
https://www.anaheimshow.com/electroshows/DescriptionBooth.cfm?ID=1045
](https://www.mfgshow.com/electroshows/Description.cfm?ClientID=40989&Reper=0)
OCT
14-15
2026
## DESIGN-2-PART SHOW (PASADENA) / BOOTH 210-212
-
[
https://d2pla26.mapyourshow.com/8_0/exhibitor/exhibitor-details.cfm?exhid=47618
](https://d2pla26.mapyourshow.com/8_0/exhibitor/exhibitor-details.cfm?exhid=47618)
APR
22-23
2026
## DEL MAR ELECTRONICS & MANUFACTURING SHOW / BOOTH 1025-1027
-
[
https://www.mfgshow.com/electroshows/Description.cfm?ClientID=40989&Reper=0
](https://www.mfgshow.com/electroshows/Description.cfm?ClientID=40989&Reper=0)
FEB
3-5
2026
## MD&M WEST / BOOTH 4261
-
[
https://mdmwest26.mapyourshow.com/8_0/exhview/index.cfm?selectedBooth=4261
](https://mdmwest26.mapyourshow.com/8_0/exhview/index.cfm?selectedBooth=4261)
SEP
24-25
2025
## DESIGN-2-PART SHOW (LONG BEACH) / BOOTH 224-226
-
[
https://d2pla25.mapyourshow.com/8_0/exhibitor/exhibitor-details.cfm?exhid=47618
](https://d2pla25.mapyourshow.com/8_0/exhibitor/exhibitor-details.cfm?exhid=47618)
APR
23-24
2025
## DEL MAR ELECTRONICS & MANUFACTURING SHOW / BOOTH 1025-1027
-
[
https://www.mfgshow.com/electroshows/DescriptionBooth.cfm?ID=5186
](https://www.mfgshow.com/electroshows/DescriptionBooth.cfm?ID=5186)
FEB
4-6
2025
## MD&M WEST / BOOTH 4449
-
[
https://imewest25.mapyourshow.com/8_0/exhibitor/exhibitor-details.cfm?exhid=975922
](https://imewest25.mapyourshow.com/8_0/exhibitor/exhibitor-details.cfm?exhid=975922)
OCT
2-3
2024
## ANAHEIM ELECTRONICS & MANUFACTURING SHOW / BOOTH 706-708
-
[
https://www.anaheimshow.com/
](https://www.mfgshow.com/electroshows/Description.cfm?ClientID=40989&Reper=0)
SEPT
25-26
2024
## DESIGN-2-PART SHOW (LONG BEACH) / BOOTH 341-343
-
[
https://www.d2p.com/
](https://www.mfgshow.com/electroshows/Description.cfm?ClientID=40989&Reper=0)
APRIL
24-25
2024
## DEL MAR ELECTRONICS & MANUFACTURING SHOW / BOOTH 701-702
-
[
https://www.mfgshow.com/electroshows/Description.cfm?ClientID=40989&Reper=0
](https://www.mfgshow.com/electroshows/Description.cfm?ClientID=40989&Reper=0)
MARCH
1
2024
## PLASTICS TECHNOLOGY COVER STORY
-
[
https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Plastics_Technology_March-2024_Precision_Decision.pdf
](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Plastics_Technology_March-2024_Precision_Decision.pdf)
FEBRUARY
6-8
2024
## PLASTEC WEST
-
[
https://imewest24.mapyourshow.com/8_0/exhibitor/exhibitor-details.cfm?exhid=975922
](https://imewest24.mapyourshow.com/8_0/exhibitor/exhibitor-details.cfm?exhid=975922)
September
27
2023
## ANAHEIM ELECTRONICS & MANUFACTURING SHOW
-
[
https://www.anaheimshow.com/
](https://www.mfgshow.com/)
September
13
2023
## DESIGN-2-PART SHOW (ONTARIO)
-
[
https://www.d2p.com/2023-ontario-manufacturing-trade-show/
](https://www.mfgshow.com/)
April
26
2023
## DEL MAR ELECTRONICS & MANUFACTURING SHOW
-
[
https://www.mfgshow.com
](https://www.mfgshow.com/)
November
16
2022
## ANAHEIM ELECTRONICS & MANUFACTURING SHOW
-
[
https://www.anaheimshow.com/
](https://www.anaheimshow.com/)
October
12
2022
## DESIGN-2-PART SHOW (LONG BEACH)
-
[
https://www.d2p.com/2022-long-beach-manufacturing-trade-show/
](https://www.d2p.com/2022-long-beach-manufacturing-trade-show/)
October
21
2020
## BENCHMARKING AND BEST PRACTICES CONFERENCE - ASH BROWN SPEAKING
-
[
MAPP Conference
](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/MAPP-Conference-2020-Post.png)
July
15
2020
## SALES PROCESS FORUM 2020 - ASH BROWN SPEAKING
-
[
Sales Process Forum
](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/Sales-Forum-2020-Post.pdf)
July
15
2019
## PROFILE: PRECISION MOLDED PLASTICS
-
[
CompanyWeek
](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/Profile-Precision-Molded-Plastics.pdf)
October
10
2018
## MAPP RECOGNIZES 100 CHAMPIONS
-
[
Manufacturer's Association for Plastics Processors
](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/MAPP-Recognizes-100-Champions.pdf)
September
27
2018
## MANUFACTURING DAY @ PRECISION MOLDED PLASTICS
-
[
InlandEmpire.com
](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/Manufacturing-Day-@-Precision-Molded-Plastics.pdf)
September
25
2018
## UPLAND COMPANY TO HOLD MANUFACTURING DAY EVENT
-
[
IE Business Daily
](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/Upland-Company-to-Hold-Manufacturing-Day-Event.pdf)
march
05
2018
## PMP BOOSTS EFFICIENCY, EXPANDS TRAINING
-
[
Plastics News
](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/PMP-boosts-efficiency-expands-training-Plastics-News.pdf)
Febuary
15
2018
## TRUMP’S BUDGET CUTS FUNDING FOR MANUFACTURING PROGRAM
-
[
The Wall Street Journal
](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/Trumps-Budget-Cuts-Funding-for-Manufacturing-Program-WSJ.pdf)
October
11
2017
## PROCESSORS PREDICT SUSTAINED GROWTH IN 2018
-
[
Plastics Business
](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/Plastics-Business-Fall-2017-Processors-Predict-Sustained-Growth-in-2018.pdf)
April
18
2016
## LIGHTS, CAMERA, PLASTICS
-
[
Plastics News
](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/Lights-Camera-Plastics-2.pdf)
---
# Home
Source: https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/index.md
[
Services
](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/services/)
[
Resource Center
](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/resources/)
[
Mold Transfers
](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/services/transfer-your-molds/)
# Proud Members Of
[
![](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/society_of_plastics_engineers.png) ](http://www.4spe.org/)
[
![](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/manufacturers_association_for_plastics_processors.png) ](http://www.mappinc.com/)
[
![](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/international_association_of_plumbing_and_mechanical_officials.jpg) ](http://www.iapmo.org/)
[
![](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/spi.png) ](http://www.plasticsindustry.org/)
[
![](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/cmta.png) ](https://www.cmta.net/)
[
![](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/cmct.png) ](http://www.cmtc.com/)
[
![](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/manufacturers_council_of_the_inland_empire.png) ](http://mfgcouncilie.com/)
## Plastic Injection Molding
Precision is a vertically integrated, plastic injection molding company that builds custom molds and tooling, manufactures parts and products, and performs a variety of value-added services all under one roof. As such, we have been a trusted supplier of Fortune 500 companies in the medical, aerospace, food and beverage, construction, agriculture and other industries for over forty-five years.
## What Sets Precision Apart
-
Comprehensive Plastic Manufacturing
-
Custom Tooling & Mold Building
-
Medium to High Volume Injection Molding
-
Secondary Operations, Decorating & Assembly
[
Capabilities
](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/services/capabilities/)
## Additional Benefits
-
Reshoring Assistance & Easy Mold Transfers
-
Certified Quality Management System
-
Design & Engineering Support
-
Friendly & Accessible Customer Service
[
Services
](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/services/)
## Environmental Sustainability
Precision is dedicated to safeguarding and preserving our environment and to reducing our carbon footprint. As a company, we focus on recycling and reusing materials, and we generate less non-recyclable waste on a weekly basis than the average household.
[
Sustainability
](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/environmental-sustainability/)
## SOME OF OUR CLIENTS
---
# Privacy Policy
Source: https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/privacy-policy.md
# Privacy Policy
## PLEASE READ THESE TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF USE ("AGREEMENT") BEFORE ACCESSING OR USING THIS WEBSITE.
The following Terms and Conditions of Use apply to any visitor or user (hereinafter referred to as "You") of the website located at [http://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/) and any websites (singularly and collectively, "the Site") that Precision Molded Plastics, Inc. ("PMP") owns and controls. By accessing and using the site, you hereby agree to be bound by these terms and conditions of use.
The following terms govern your access to and use of the Site, and apply to all materials, software, content, services, online communications, and other information that is or becomes available on or through our Site (collectively, the "Material"). By accessing and using the Site, you hereby agree to be legally bound by the terms and conditions of this Agreement. If you do not agree to such terms and conditions, you must not use the Site.
Please note that the use of certain Material or the conduct of certain transactions on or through the Site may be subject to additional terms and conditions that shall be made available to you prior to your use of such Material or participating in such transactions. We reserve the right, in our sole discretion, to change, modify or otherwise alter the terms and conditions of this Agreement with or without notice to you. Such changes and/or modifications shall become effective immediately upon the posting thereof on the Site. Your continued use of the Site shall constitute your continuing acceptance of any and all revised terms and conditions. PMP may terminate, change, suspend or discontinue any aspect of the Site, including the availability of any features of the Site, at any time without notice to you. PMP may also impose limits on certain features or services or restrict your access and use of the Site without notice or liability.
 
 
**1. General Conduct & Limited License**
1.1 The Material is the property of PMP, except as otherwise provided herein, and is protected, without limitation, by U.S. and foreign copyright and trademark laws, and in certain instances, U.S. and foreign patent laws. PMP hereby grants you a personal, non-exclusive, non-assignable, non-sublicensable and non-transferable license to use and display, for non-commercial and personal use only, one copy of the Material that you download from the Site, except as may otherwise be expressly provided on our Site. You agree that the copy of the Material shall retain all copyright, trademark and other proprietary notices in the same form and in the same manner as such notices appear on the Material or on the Site. You shall not otherwise reproduce, modify, distribute, transmit, post, or publish (including, without limitation, display and distribution via a third party website), the Material without PMP's prior written consent. Except as expressly set forth herein, nothing contained herein shall be construed as conferring by implication, estoppel, or otherwise any license or right under any patent, trademark or copyright of PMP or any third party.
1.2 You understand and agree that the Material is provided hereunder "AS IS" without warranty of any kind and that your use of the Material is at your sole discretion and risk. You shall be solely responsible for any damage to your network, software or computer system and any loss of data that may result from your use of the Site and/or the Material.
1.3 While visiting the Site, you shall not submit, post, publish, distribute or transmit: (a) material that is illegal, indecent, obscene, libelous, defamatory, disparaging, false or misleading; (b) material other than that which may be requested by an interactive application or tool on the Site; (c) unsolicited advertising, promotional material, or other forms of solicitation; (d) material that would infringe the intellectual property, privacy or other rights of third parties, (e) a computer virus, worm, Trojan horse or other element destructive to the Site or any PMP hardware or software accessible through the Site, or (f) a digital or manual signature, password, or other element impersonating a PMP employee, or affiliate, or any forged TCP/IP headers or parts of a header, in an attempt to gain unauthorized access to PMP's computers, software, data, accounts or databases.
1.4 You shall not, without the prior written consent of PMP, use any computer code, data mining software, "robot," "bot," "spider," "scraper" or other automatic device, or program, algorithm or methodology having similar processes or functionality, or any manual process, to monitor or copy any of the web pages, Material, data or content found on the Site or accessed through the Site. You shall not engage in the mass downloading of files from the Site; use the computer processing power of the Site for purposes other than those permitted hereunder; or flood the Site with electronic traffic designed to slow or stop its operation. You shall not disassemble, decompile, reverse engineer or otherwise modify the Material. Any unauthorized or prohibited use shall subject the offender to civil liability or criminal prosecution under applicable laws.
1.5 Access to and use of password protected and/or restricted areas of the Site is restricted to authorized users only. Unauthorized individuals attempting to access these areas of the Site may be subject to civil liability or criminal prosecution under applicable laws.
1.6 In an effort to make online information about PMP and business transactions with PMP efficient, PMP may use the Site as an entry into other networked web pages and websites operated by PMP and its subsidiaries and affiliates (together, the "Transaction Sites"). Please note that individual Transaction Sites may adopt terms of use particular to the purpose of such Transaction Site or the transaction(s) taking place on such Transaction Site. For example, some of the Transaction Sites affiliated with commercial transactions that you or your business may have with PMP, particularly those which are password-protected or subject to subscriptions, may have differing terms, or separate agreements which supplement or supersede these terms. If a Transaction Site has imposed its own terms of use by posting on such Transaction Site, separate agreement or otherwise, the provisions of those Transaction Site terms shall control the transaction in the event of a conflict with the terms and conditions of this Agreement. Except as supplemented or superseded as described herein, this Agreement applies to the entire network of the Transaction Sites, and control your use thereof.
 
 
**2. Third Party Material**
2.1 The Site may include Material owned or licensed by third parties, as well as links to websites owned by third parties (singularly and collectively "Third Party Material"). Access to and use of any Third Party Material is at your sole risk and PMP shall not be responsible for the accuracy or reliability of any information, data, opinions, advice or statements made in such Third Party Material. As PMP does not control the Third Party Material, particularly, third party websites, you agree to take precautions against any worms, trojan horses, computer viruses or other destructive elements that could result from your use of the Third Party Material.
2.2 PMP's inclusion of Third Party Material on the Site shall not be construed as PMP's endorsement, authorization of, sponsorship of, or relationship with any third party or the Third Party Material, and no rights or licenses are granted to you in the Third Party Material. You agree to defend and hold PMP harmless from any and all liability that may result from your use of the Third Party Material. Additionally, if a third party website links to the Site, it is not necessarily an endorsement, authorization, sponsorship of such third party, and may not be known to or authorized by PMP Company.
 
 
**3. PMP Marks**
3.1 The PMP logo and the Plastics Made Perfect slogan are trademarks and/or service marks of Precision Molded Plastics, Inc. Any trademarks, trade names, trade dress, service marks, logos, domain names, and URLs (collectively, the "Marks") provided in the Material or displayed on the Site are the property of PMP or third parties, and no right to use such Marks is granted to you herein. Other trademarks, including proprietary product designs, owned by PMP may be reflected in the Material and should not be used by any third party without written authorization by PMP.
 
 
**4. Accuracy and Timeliness of Information and Historical Information**
4.1 PMP assumes no responsibility to monitor the accuracy, completeness, timeliness or reliability of any Material on the Site. As such, Material may not be updated when errors are uncovered or as new information becomes available. You understand that certain Material may become stale or incomplete over time, and you hereby release PMP from any and all liability associated with same.
4.2 Material which may be archived on PMP-provided Sites is believed to be accurate at the time of creation and original date of posting. However, you should understand that PMP does not warrant the accuracy or completeness of any Material, and that the passage of time, subsequent events and other changes may make the Material stale.
4.3 Although such Material may be included on such Sites as archival Material, PMP may not have updated, edited, changed or removed the content, and disclaims any obligation to do so. To the extent reliance on dated Material is made, it is done so at your sole risk.
 
 
**5. Submissions to the Site**
5.1 Any information, including, but not limited to, feedback, questions, comments, suggestions, ideas, graphics, computer files, links, or other material you submit to the Site ("Submissions"), whether via email or otherwise, regardless of any terms you propose that may be included therewith, shall be considered non-confidential and you hereby grant PMP a non-exclusive, perpetual, worldwide, royalty-free license to use the Submissions in any way we choose, subject to any limitations set forth in our Privacy Policy. Therefore, PMP may, among other things, reproduce, transmit, distribute, adapt, perform, display and create derivative works from or based upon your Submissions, and sublicense others to do any or all of the foregoing activities. You agree that your Submissions shall meet all requirements for appropriate content in accordance with Section 1.3 above. PMP reserves the right at any time and without notice, to refuse to receive, post or remove any Submission.
 
 
**6. Compliance with Applicable Laws; Export Control Laws**
6.1 The Site and the Material shall be subject to U.S. export control laws and shall also be subject to the laws of the country where you reside. You agree to comply with all applicable laws, statutes, ordinances, and regulations regarding your use of the Site. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary, PMP makes no representation that the Site or the Material is appropriate or available for use in other jurisdictions. If you choose to access the Site from such a jurisdiction, you do so at your own risk. The laws of the State of California, United States of America, excluding choice of law principles, shall govern all issues relating to use of the Site and the Materials. By using the Site, you agree that any dispute, legal action or proceeding between us that concerns or relates in any way to the Site, Material, links or any information relating to the foregoing shall be brought in federal or state court, as applicable, in the County of San Bernardino, State of California, U.S.A.
 
 
**7. Disclaimers**
**7.1 UNDER NO CIRCUMSTANCES AND UNDER NO LEGAL OR EQUITABLE THEORY, INCLUDING NEGLIGENCE, SHALL PMP, ITS OFFICERS, EMPLOYEES, DIRECTORS, AGENTS, SUPPLIERS, OR ANY OTHER PARTY INVOLVED IN PROVIDING THE SITE, BE LIABLE TO YOU OR ANY OTHER PERSON FOR ANY DAMAGES WHATSOEVER, INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO, DIRECT, INDIRECT, PUNITIVE, SPECIAL, CONSEQUENTIAL, OR INCIDENTAL DAMAGES INCLUDING, WITHOUT LIMITATION, LOST PROFITS OR REVENUES, COSTS OF REPLACEMENT GOODS, LOSS OR DAMAGE TO DATA, SOFTWARE OR HARDWARE, INTERRUPTIONS, ERRORS, DEFECTS, MISTAKES, OMISSIONS, DELETIONS OF FILES, DELAYS IN OPERATION OR TRANSMISSION, NON-DELIVERY OF INFORMATION, DISCLOSURE OF COMMUNICATIONS, OR ANY OTHER FAILURE OF PERFORMANCE OF THE SITE, THE MATERIAL, ANY PMP PRODUCT OR SERVICE, OR ANY OTHER HYPERLINKED WEBSITE, OR ANY DAMAGES RESULTING FROM THE USE OF OR RELIANCE ON THE SITE AND/OR THE MATERIAL PRESENTED, EVEN IF PMP HAS BEEN ADVISED, KNEW, OR SHOULD HAVE KNOWN OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES.**
**7.2 ALL MATERIAL PROVIDED ON THE SITE IS PROVIDED "AS IS" WITHOUT WARRANTY OF ANY KIND, EITHER EXPRESS OR IMPLIED. PMP DISCLAIMS ALL WARRANTIES, INCLUDING, WITHOUT LIMITATION, THOSE OF MERCHANTABILITY, FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE, TITLE, NON-INFRINGEMENT, OR THOSE ARISING FROM A COURSE OF DEALING, USAGE, OR TRADE PRACTICE. THE INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION FOR THE SALE OF GOODS, THE UNIFORM COMPUTER INFORMATION TRANSACTIONS ACT AND THE UNIFORM ELECTRONIC TRANSACTIONS ACT ARE EXPRESSLY DISCLAIMED.**
** **
**8. Indemnity**
**8.1 YOU AGREE TO INDEMNIFY, DEFEND, AND HOLD HARMLESS PMP, ITS OFFICERS, EMPLOYEES, DIRECTORS, AGENTS, SUPPLIERS, OR ANY OTHER PARTY INVOLVED IN PROVIDING THE SITE AND/OR MATERIALS, FROM AND AGAINST ANY AND ALL CLAIMS, SUITS, DAMAGES, COSTS, OR OTHER EXPENSES (INCLUDING ATTORNEYS' FEES) THAT ARISE DIRECTLY OR INDIRECTLY FROM: (A) USE OF THE SITE AND/OR THE MATERIAL; (B) BREACH OF THE TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF THIS AGREEMENT; AND (C) YOUR SUBMISSIONS TO THE SITE.**
** **
**9. Digital Millennium Copyright Act Compliance**
9.1 If you have copyright concerns about any Materials or other content posted on the Site, please let us know. We comply with the provisions of the Digital Millennium Copyright Act applicable to Internet service providers (17 U.S.C. § 512). If you have any complaints or objections to Material or other content posted on the Site, please contact our Designated Agent ("Notice"):
President
Precision Molded Plastics, Inc.
880 West 9th Street
Upland, California 91786
**9.2 To be effective, the Notice must include the following:**
- A physical or electronic signature of the owner or a person authorized to act on behalf of the owner("Complaining Party") of an exclusive right that is allegedly infringed;- Identification of the copyrighted work claimed to have been infringed, or if multiple copyrighted works on our Site are covered by a single notification, a representative list of such works at that site;- Identification of the material that is claimed to be infringing or to be the subject of infringing activity and that is to be removed or access to which is to be disabled, and information reasonably sufficient to permit PMP to locate the material;- Information reasonably sufficient to permit PMP to contact the Complaining Party, such as an address, telephone number, and if available, an electronic mail address at which the Complaining Party may be Contacted;- A statement that the Complaining Party has a good faith belief that use of the material in the manner complained of is not authorized by the copyright owner, its agent, or the law;- A statement that the information in the notification is accurate, and under penalty of perjury, that the Complaining Party is the owner or is authorized to act on behalf of the owner of an exclusive right that is allegedly infringed.**10. Termination and Survival; Miscellaneous**
10.1 Some of the provisions of this Agreement are for the benefit of PMP, its officers, directors, employees, agents, subsidiaries, affiliates, suppliers, and any third-party information providers. Each of these persons or entities shall have the right to enforce these provisions directly against you on its own behalf if you violate any of the terms or conditions of this Agreement.
10.2 PMP's failure to insist upon or enforce strict performance of any provision of this Agreement shall not be construed as a waiver of any provision or right. Neither the course of conduct between the parties nor trade practice shall act to modify any provisions of this Agreement. PMP may assign its rights and duties under this Agreement to any party at any time without notice to you.
10.3 This Agreement may be terminated by either party at any time, without notice to the other party.
10.4 In the event of breach of these terms, PMP immediately may terminate your access to and your use of the Site and the Materials.
10.5 Obligations and duties arising under these terms, which by their nature extend beyond the termination of this Agreement, shall survive any termination.
### Questions?
**(909) 981-9662**
---
# Legal Notice
Source: https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/legal-notice.md
# Legal Notice
## PLEASE READ THESE TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF USE ("AGREEMENT") BEFORE ACCESSING OR USING THIS WEBSITE.
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President
Precision Molded Plastics, Inc.
880 West 9th Street
Upland, California 91786
 
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### Questions?
**(909) 981-9662**
---
# Plastic Injection Molding Materials
Source: https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/plastic-injection-molding-materials.md
# Plastic Injection Molding Materials
## COMMON THERMOPLASTIC POLYMERS
The base materials used for plastic injection molding generally are referred to as thermoplastic polymers. There are many different types of these plastics, and each family of resin has its own characteristics, advantages and disadvantages. Further, every family has different grades, which have their own unique qualities. Although there are multiple properties of plastic, the most frequently referenced ones include heat resistance, chemical resistance, impact resistance, weather resistance, UV resistance, moisture resistance, flame retardant, toughness, hardness, flexibility, stability, elasticity, strength, weight, mass density (or specific gravity), and clarity.
With so many types, grades and properties of plastic, it can be difficult to know where to begin the search for the right material for a part, component or requirement. As such, the table below lists the most common plastic injection molding materials and their main properties and frequent applications. Although this certainly is not a complete and definitive listing, it should serve as a helpful guide to start researching the right thermoplastic polymer for your project. If you have any questions or would like some assistance, please do not hesitate to [contact us](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/contact-us/). We are happy to help.
### PLASTIC INJECTION MOLDING MATERIALS CHART
| MATERIAL | HIGHLIGHTS | COMMON APPLICATIONS | MASS DENSITY (g/cm) | SHRINKAGE (in/in) | CLARITY | TONNAGE PER SQUARE INCH (Estimated) | COST |
| -------- | ---------- | ------------------- | ------------------- | ----------------- | ------- | ----------------------------------- | ---- |
| ABS
Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene | Flame retardant; impact resistant | Automotive; medical; electrical; appliances; toys | 1.02-1.05 | 0.005 | Translucent | 2.5-3.5 | $ |
| ASA
Acrylonitrile Styrene Acrylate | Toughness; chemical, heat and weather/UV resistant | Automotive; outdoor applications; electrical | 1.07 | 0.004-0.007 | Opaque | 2.5-3.5 | $$ |
| EVA
Ethylene-Vinyl Acetate | Softness; flexibility; clarity; gloss | Sporting goods; medical; foam; rubber replacement | 0.92-0.97 | 0.007-0.020 | Transparent | 2.0-3.0 | $ |
| HDPE
High Density Polyethylene | Rigidity; moisture resistant; food contact | Packaging; food; industrial | 0.935-0.96 | 0.025-0.035 | Opaque | 2.5-3.5 | $ |
| HIPS
High Impact Polystyrene | Impact resistant; flame retardant; food contact | Food; packaging | 1.04 | 0.003-0.007 | Transparent | 2.0-2.5 | $ |
| LDPE
Low Density Polyethylene | Chemical resistant; flexibility; toughness; gloss | Packaging; food; industrial | 0.91-0.925 | 0.015-0.026 | Transparent or Opaque | 2.0-3.0 | $ |
| LLDPE
Linear Low Density Polyethylene | High tensile strength; high impact resistance; flexibility | Bags; packaging; toys; covers; lids; containers | 0.918-0.94 0 | 0.015-0.035 | Translucent | 2.0-3.0 | $ |
| PA6
Polyamide 6 (Nylon 6) | Heat and chemical resistant; impact modified | Automotive; electrical; industrial; consumer; engineering | 1.13 | 0.009-0.012 | Opaque | 3.0-4.0 | $$ |
| PA66
Polyamide 66 (Nylon 66) | Heat and chemical resistant; impact modified | Automotive; electrical; industrial; consumer; engineering | 1.14 | 0.015-0.020 | Opaque | 3.0-4.0 | $$ |
| PA66 30%GF
30% Glass Filled Polyamide (Nylon 66) | High rigidity, hardness and strength; high stability | Automotive; engineering; gears; cams; bearings; electrical; metal substitute | 1.22-1.49 | 0.003-0.008 | Opaque | 4.0-5.0 | $$ |
| PBT
Polybutylene Terephthalate (Polyester) [Valox] | Chemical and heat resistant; mechanical strength | Electrical; automotive; showerheads; irons | 1.31 | 0.012-0.023 | Opaque | 3.0-4.0 | $$ |
| PC
Polycarbonate [Lexan] | High impact strength; clarity; flame retardant | Electrical; lighting; automotive; appliances; medical | 1.20 | 0.005-0.007 | Transparent | 4.0-5.0 | $$ |
| PC+ABS
Polycarbonate + ABS [Cycoloy] | Toughness; dimensional stability; low moisture absorption | Appliances; automotive; electrical; consumer; medical | 1.08-1.22 | 0.005-0.007 | Opaque | 3.0-4.0 | $$ |
| PEEK
Polyether Ether Ketone | Mechanical and chemical resistance | Bearings; piston parts; aerospace; automotive; medical; chemical processing | 1.30-1.50 | 0.010-0.020 | Opaque | 5.0 | $$$ |
| PEI
Polyetherimide [Ultem] | High tensile strength; flame retardant; chemical resistant | Electrical; aerospace; medical; lighting; appliances | 1.27 | 0.006 | Translucent | 4.0-6.0 | $$$ |
| PET
Polyethylene Terephthalate [Dacron] | Lightweight; moisture barrier; strength; impact resistant | Bottles; food packaging | 1.44-1.73 | 0.002 | Transparent | 4.0-5.0 | $$ |
| PMMA
Polymethyl Methacrylate (Acrylic) | High clarity; weather, heat and chemical resistant | Glass substitute; automotive; lighting; medical; lenses; optics | 1.19 | 0.002-0.006 | Transparent | 3.0-4.0 | $ |
| POM
Polyoxymethylene (Acetal) [Celcon; Delrin] | Lubricated; wear and chemical resistant; stiffness | Automotive; industrial; mechanical; electrica | 1.41-1.42 | 0.018-0.035 | Opaque | 3.0-4.0 | $$ |
| PP (Copolymer)
Polypropylene Copolymer | Impact resistant; lightness; food contact | Automotive; household; electrical; packaging | 0.90 | 0.010-0.025 | Opaque | 2.5-3.5 | $ |
| PP (Homopolymer)
Polypropylene Homopolymer | Impact resistant; lightness; food contact | Automotive; household; electrical; packaging | 0.902 | 0.010-0.025 | Translucent | 2.5-3.5 | $ |
| PPE
Polyphenylene Ether | Electrical properties; flame retardant; chemical resistant; low moisture absorption | Electrical; appliances; construction; automotive | 1.13 | 0.006 | Translucent | 3.0-4.0 | $$ |
| PPS
Polyphenylene Sulfide [Ryton] | Chemical and fire resistance; thermal and dimensional stability | Automotive; electrical; industrial; appliances | 1.40-2.00 | 0.003-0.010 | Opaque | 3.5-4.5 | $$ |
| PS
Polystyrene (GPPS) | Impact resistant; flame retardant; food contact | Packaging; electrical; toys; appliances | 1.05 | 0.003-0.007 | Transparent | 2.0-2.5 | $ |
| PVC
Polyvinyl Chloride | Flame retardant; high impact resistance | Industrial; electronic | 1.22 | 0.002 | Opaque | 2.0-3.0 | $ |
| SAN
Styrene Acrylonitrile | Chemical and heat resistance; clarity | Electrical; appliances; automotive | 1.06 | 0.002-0.005 | Transparent | 2.5-3.5 | $$ |
| TPE
Thermoplastic Elastomer | Elasticity; chemical and weather resistant | Rubber substitute; automotive; seals; overmolding | 0.87-1.20 | 0.017-0.047 | Translucent | 2.5-3.5 | $$ |
| TPU
Thermoplastic Polyurethane | Range of hardness grades; abrasion and chemical resistant | Footwear; sporting goods; wheels; seals | 1.01-1.23 | 0.012-0.017 | Transparent | 2.5-3.5 | $$ |
| TPV
Thermoplastic Vulcanizate [Santoprene] | Strength; flexibility; lightweight | Automotive; appliances; electrical; construction; healthcare; industrial | 0.92-0.97 | 0.010-0.050 | Transparent | 2.5-3.5 | $$ |
Clarity: Opaque = No light passes through; Transparent = Some light passes through; Translucent = Light passes through**Disclaimers:** The information provided herein is general in nature and is based upon averages, nominal ranges, estimates, non-specified grades of materials in their natural form, and readily available public information. Accordingly, this guide should be used only as a handy comparison of materials and as a starting point for conducting research, and users must perform their own studies and testing of materials. ALL WARRANTIES, EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE OR USE, ARE EXCLUDED AND DISCLAIMED. Without limiting the generality of the foregoing, Precision Molded Plastics, Inc. assumes no responsibility or liability of any kind for this guide or for the information contained herein. [
Download Chart
](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Plastic_Injection_Molding_Materials_Precision_2023.pdf)
---
# FAQs
Source: https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/faqs.md
# Frequently Asked Questions
## Q: WHAT DO YOU NEED TO PROVIDE US WITH A QUOTE?
A: Most of the data and materials we like to receive are included on our [Request A Quote](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/request-a-quote/) page. After a request has been submitted, we’ll review everything with you and see if we have enough information to provide you with a quote.
## Q: HOW QUICKLY CAN YOU PROVIDE US WITH A QUOTE?
A: Once we receive all the necessary data and materials, we generally can create a proposal in about two to three business days.
## Q: CAN WE TRANSFER OUR MOLDS FROM ANOTHER SUPPLIER TO YOU?
A: Of course! We facilitate mold transfers to our facility on a regular basis. Please visit our [Transfer Your Molds](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/services/transfer-your-molds/) page for more information.
## Q: CAN YOU GIVE ME A BALLPARK ESTIMATE?
A: While we would love to give quick, off-the-cuff estimates, considering the complexity of building custom molds and of manufacturing precision plastic parts, we believe it is our responsibility to review and analyze as much information as possible before providing our customers with any estimates. That being said, we make every effort to prepare quotes as quickly as possible.
## Q: HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO BUILD A MOLD?
A: After a contract is awarded, the Design for Manufacturability (DFM) studies have been reviewed, and the mold design has been approved, we usually provide the initial tooling samples in about seven to eight weeks. Once those are inspected and approved, any finishing work on the mold is done, the mold qualification and process validation procedures are performed, and first article samples are produced for final inspection and approval, all of which takes approximately six to seven weeks. Of course, these are only generalized estimates and each project is unique, but this should give you some idea of our mold building lead time.
## Q: DO YOU HAVE A SUPPLIER DATA SHEET?
Please visit the [Resource Center](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/resources/) page and look under Company Documents and Data Sheets.
## Q: DO YOU HAVE A MINIMUM ORDER QUANTITY?
A: Although most of our work involves high volume production, we do not have a specific minimum order quantity.
## Q: WHAT IS THE LARGEST PART YOU CAN MANUFACTURE?
A: Precision focuses on producing small to midsize parts, up to approximately eighteen inches in length, and our largest injection molding machine is 300 tons. Molding capability depends on a few factors, such as the overall dimensions of the part, the part volume, the mass of the part, etc. If you have questions about a specific project, [contact us](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/contact-us/), and we’ll be happy to review things with you.
## Q: WHAT DO YOU CHARGE FOR STORING THE MOLDS?
A: We offer complimentary storage for active molds that are used at least once per year.
## Q: DO YOU HAVE YOUR OWN TOOLING DEPARTMENT?
A: Yes. We have a full service, in-house [mold building](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/mold-building/) department with modern equipment and an experienced staff that performs mold building, tooling repairs and modifications, and regular maintenance on all our customers’ molds. Thus, tooling is kept in top condition, and any issues that may arise are addressed quickly and efficiently, so any downtime in production is kept to a minimum.
## Q: CAN YOU HELP US DETERMINE THE RIGHT MATERIAL TO USE?
A: Absolutely. With over 100,000 different types of resins in our database, we definitely can provide some guidance in identifying the best materials for your project. Additionally, if you are familiar with a certain plastic and would like to know if there are any viable alternatives, we can help with that, too.
## Q: HOW CAN I FIND OUT MORE ABOUT PLASTIC INJECTION MOLDING?
A: Be sure to check out the selection of guides, checklists, templates and more in our [Resource Center](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/resources/). Also, visit our [blog](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/blog/) for articles on plastics, injection molding, tooling, manufacturing, and supply chain management, and don’t forget to follow us on social media (links below).
## Q: WHAT IF I HAVE OTHER QUESTIONS NOT ANSWERED HERE?
A: Please feel free to [contact us](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/contact-us/) with any further questions you may have. We're here to help.
---
# Industries Served
Source: https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/services/industries-served.md
# Industries Served
With forty-five years of experience, Precision has the ability to leverage an extensive knowledge base to ensure successful product launches and ongoing supply and delivery performance. We have served virtually every industry from the inception of our business. While we may not know your company yet, odds are we have been supporting your industry for years and look forward to the opportunity of working with you. Our diverse customer base includes a particular emphasis on the following industries:
![](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/medical_devices.jpg)
### MEDICAL DEVICES
Precision has a dedicated staff that is experienced in molding high quality precision components for customers in the medical device industry. Our Southern California facility uses quality systems certified to ISO 9001:2015 and is competent in providing complete program management. From insert and overmolding to high tolerance requirements, we are proficient in producing and assembling a variety of medical devices.
![](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/aerospace_defense.jpg)
### AEROSPACE / DEFENSE
As a trusted supplier for OEMs and Fortune 500 companies, we manage many complex manufacturing programs. This can include design and engineering support, mold building, material and component sourcing, production of parts, secondary operations, decorating, assembly, and more. Additionally, Precision assists with research and development (R&D) of projects, and we have a quality management system certified to ISO 9001:2015 that governs our entire operations. Our core competency is manufacturing, and we focus on that so you can focus on yours.
![](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/food_and_beverage_plastic_molding.jpg)
### FOOD & BEVERAGE
We manufacture a range of parts and components for many OEMs in the food and beverage industry, including those for consumer products, commercial equipment, and industrial food-processing applications. Whether the end use is in a factory, restaurant or home, we have the experience and capabilities to handle any program.
![](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/agriculture.jpg)
### AGRICULTURE
Precision has extensive experience producing parts for companies in the agricultural and associated industries. This includes applications related to farming, equestrian, bovine, irrigation and water management, building supplies, oil and gas, and food and beverage. Likewise, components we manufacture are contained within monitoring systems, electronics, filters, dispensers, vehicles, equipment, infrastructure, and animal-related products.
![](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/renewable_energy.jpg)
### RENEWABLE ENERGY
Precision is committed to safeguarding and preserving our environment and to reducing our carbon footprint. As such, we focus on recycling, reusing materials, and utilizing advanced, energy-efficient processes. Further, we are capable of providing a variety of solutions for renewable energy applications, including wind energy, solar power, recycling, electric transportation, and alternative fuel sources.
![](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/industrial_products.jpg)
### INDUSTRIAL PRODUCTS
From cooling tower components to pressure monitoring equipment, Precision has over 45 years of experience producing industrial products. We have a proven model for product launch and, with our exceptional on-time delivery record, Precision is able to meet or exceed your quality standards while delivering on-time, on-budget and on-spec.
![](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/consumer_products.jpg)
### CONSUMER GOODS
Precision creates products that people touch every day. From household goods to food and beverage containers, sports and recreational products, and entertainment components, we partner with our customers to manufacture quality products that are delivered on time, every time. We believe that your success is our success, and we will do whatever it takes to ensure your satisfaction.
![](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/building_supplies.jpg)
### BUILDING / CONSTRUCTION
Whether industrial, commercial or residential, we manufacture products to pour a slab, erect a wall, or build a roof. If it flushes, opens and shuts, or lets the morning light shine through, Precision makes the products that are all around you. So, whatever plastic components your building products need, we are prepared to handle the job.
# Some Of Our Clients
---
# Capabilities
Source: https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/services/capabilities.md
# Capabilities
Precision offers comprehensive plastic injection molding services all under one roof. We design and build custom tooling engineered to meet the requirements of any program, and we source and mold virtually every type of resin from commodity grade plastics to engineering, functional and structural grade materials and bioplastics in a variety of colors and formulations. In addition to injection molding, we offer many secondary services and finishing operations, including hot stamping, thermal transfer, pad printing, machining, assembly, and packaging.
 
Our manufacturing processes are highly automated, which results in a lean and efficient production floor with minimal overhead costs. These capabilities allow us to provide efficient and cost-competitive manufacturing services to our customers without sacrificing precision and quality. For a summary of our capabilities, please see the list below, click [here](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Services_and_Capabilities_Precision_2023.pdf) for a printable version, download our [corporate brochure](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Corporate_Brochure_Precision_2023.pdf), or [contact us](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/contact-us/) directly.
## GENERAL CAPABILITIES
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Plastic Injection Molding
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Custom Mold Building
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Medium to High Volume Production
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Value-Added Services
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Cleanroom Manufacturing
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Certified to ISO 9001:2015
## PRODUCT CAPABILITIES
-
Small to Midsize Parts
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Multi-Component
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Thin Wall & Tight Tolerances
## MOLDING PROCESS TYPE
-
Injection Molding
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Insert Molding
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Overmolding
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In-Mold Decoration
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Clean Room (Class 100K)
### PRODUCTION
-
Medium to High Volume Manufacturing
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10,000 Piece Minimum Annual Demand
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Part Sizes Up to Approximately 12"
### MATERIALS
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Engineering Grade Resins
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Commodity Thermoplastics
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Bioplastics
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Unlimited Colors
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Multiple Additives
### CLAMPING FORCE
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20 Tons to 300 Tons
### CLAMPING FORCE
-
0.75 oz. to 22 oz.
### TOOLING & MOLD BUILDING
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On-Site Mold Building Division & Machine Shop
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Custom Tooling Fabrication
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Mold Design & Engineering
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Class 105 (Prototyping) to Class 101 (High Volume)
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Multi-Cavity & Family Molds
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Interchangeable Inserts
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Cold & Hot Runner Systems
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Insert & Overmolding
### VALUE-ADDED SERVICES
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Product Assembly
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Part Decoration
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Production Machining of Plastic & Metal Components
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Grinding & Milling
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CNC Lathe & Engraving
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Packaging, Adhesives & Inserts
### QUALITY
-
Certifed to ISO 9001:2015
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Advanced Quality Assurance Procedures
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Customized Sampling Plans
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Image Dimension Measurement System
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Handheld Coordinate Measuring/Scanning
### PART DECORATION
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Pad Printing
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Thermal Transfer
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Hot Stamping
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In-Mold Decoration
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Part & Lot Identification
### REPORTING
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Statistical Process Repeatability
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Failure Mode Effects Analysis (FMEA)
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Internal & Supplier Corrective Action
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Lot Code Traceability & Product Retains
### INFRASTRUCTURE AND SYSTEMS
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Robotics and Work Cell Automation
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Infrastructure Redundancies
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Statistical Process Control (SPC) Monitoring
### SHORT LEAD TIMES
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Production in Two to Three Weeks
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Just-in-Time (JIT) Availability
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Stock-to-Dock Programs
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Expedited Service Options
### ADDITIONAL SERVICES
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Design for Manufacturability (DFM) Studies
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Mold Flow Analysis
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Engineering Services
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Mold Design & Engineering
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Part Design Support
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Research & Development (R&D)
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Program Management
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Custom Packaging
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Labeling & Bar Coding
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Sub-Assemblies
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Warehousing & Inventory Management
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Logistics & Shipping
### CUSTOMER SUPPORT
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Proven On-Time Performance
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Friendly & Accessible Customer Service
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Inexpensive Local Delivery
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Technical & Engineering Support
### INDUSTRY EXPERIENCE
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Aerospace
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Agriculture
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Automotive
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Construction & Building Supplies
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Consumer Goods
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Data / Telecommunications
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Defense
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Electronics
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Farm / Equestrian
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Food & Beverage
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Industrial
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Irrigation
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Office / Retail POS
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Oil & Gas / Refining & Distribution
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Medical Devices
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Plumbing
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Renewable Energy / Solar
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Window Accessories
### EFFICIENCY
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Six Sigma Certification
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Lean Manufacturing
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Kanban Systems
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Lights-Out Manufacturing
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Robotics & Automation
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Proprietary Information Systems
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Certified Quality Management System
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Closed Loop Manufacturing
[
Capabilities List
](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Services_and_Capabilities_Precision_2023.pdf)
---
# Mold Building
Source: https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/services/mold-building.md
# Mold Building
Precision offers complete tooling solutions for the development, launching and maintenance of successful plastic injection molding programs.
![](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/mb_custom_mold_building.jpg)
## CUSTOM MOLDING BUILDING
The Precision mold building division designs, engineers and fabricates tooling ideally suited to fit the unique stage, scale and needs of your injection molding project.
Options Include:
-
Class 105 (prototyping up to 1,000 cycles) to Class 101 (1,000,000+ cycles)
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Single-cavity, multi-cavity, family molds, interchangeable inserts, bridge tooling, soft tooling
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Cold and hot runner molds, custom gating, slides, unwinding cores, collapsible cores
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Tooling for insert molding and overmolding applications
## RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT (R&D)
Our team provides support, services and guidance to assist you in developing a dependable and profitable molding program and an overall more proficient supply chain.
Design for Excellence (DFX):
-
We go beyond standard Design for Manufacturability (DFM) studies and take a Design for Excellence approach, whereby our team analyzes and optimizes tooling for manufacturability; moldability; customer goals; design considerations; cost and affordability; product life cycle; testing, quality and compliance; and so forth.
![](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/mb_research_and_development.jpg) ![](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/testing_refurbishment.jpg)
## Testing & Refurbishment
Precision not only builds new tooling, but we also work with many OEMs and outside mold builders who have new or existing tooling and are looking to qualify or relocate molds.
Resources include:
-
Inspection, testing and qualification of new and transferred tooling
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Assistance with reshoring campaigns and coordination of mold relocation activities
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Design of Experiments (DOE) and Root Cause Analysis (RCA)
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Modification of tooling to meet part design changes or repair of poorly performing molds
---
# Message From The President
Source: https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/message-from-the-president.md
# Message From The President
Birthdays sometimes make you introspective, especially those with zeroes in them. Consequently, as we began our fortieth year in business, I took a moment to reflect on the company’s past and to contemplate our vision for the future.
My father founded Precision in 1979 with a focus on small parts and a dedication to craftsmanship and precision, thus the company name. We certainly have come a long way from our humble beginnings of having only two molding machines and me being ten years old pushing a broom around the shop after school and on weekends. Since then, what started as a sole proprietorship has grown into a trusted, ISO-certified supplier of Fortune 500 companies. Precision now encompasses four buildings; utilizes the best modern molding, automation and inspection equipment; has developed proprietary manufacturing ERP software; and consists of a world class team of dedicated, talented and hardworking professionals.
With a permanent focus on improvement, we continue to push the flywheel of progress toward the future. Whether implementing various training programs and quality initiatives or adding to our resources and service offerings, we continue to grow by maintaining an emphasis on providing our customers with real value and the peace of mind knowing they have a supplier on whom they can depend.
Thank you to the Precision team, its customers, and its vendors for forty years of success, and I look forward to working with and supporting you in the years to come.
![](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/david_s_vanvoorhis.jpg) Sincerely,
![david_s_vanvoorhis_signature](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/wp-content/uploads/elementor/thumbs/david_s_vanvoorhis_signature-q0hvsf3mcbp4z2mgqw1t1bhptovmku3x8b7uzbowao.png) President & CEO
---
# Environmental Sustainability
Source: https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/environmental-sustainability.md
# Our Commitment
[
![operation clean sweep](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/operation_clean_sweep.png) ](https://www.opcleansweep.org/)
To demonstrate our commitment to a clean environment, Precision has taken the Operation Clean Sweep® (OCS) pledge and is an OCS program partner to help control pellet, flake and powder loss worldwide. Many global partners have implemented practices for zero pellet, flake and powder loss through the Declaration for Solutions on Marine Litter, which states the following:
To demonstrate our commitment to a clean environment, Precision Molded Plastics has taken the Operation Clean Sweep® (OCS) pledge and is an OCS program partner to help control pellet, flake and powder loss worldwide. Many global partners have implemented practices for zero pellet, flake and powder loss through the Declaration for Solutions on Marine Litter, which states the following:
### JOINT DECLARATION
Plastic materials deliver significant societal benefits, including energy and resource savings, consumer protection and innovations that improve health care, reduce food spoilage and improve quality of life. For society to receive the benefits that plastics can provide, it is essential to properly recover them so that litter does not threaten our natural environment, including marine ecosystems.
Investigations by marine scientists are highlighting the extent to which littered plastic and other materials are ending up as debris in our oceans and the consequences for the marine environment. The organizations below are firmly committed to the principle that plastics do not belong in the world’s oceans and should not be littered - plastics should be responsibly used, reused, recycled and finally recovered for their energy value.
Plastic is present as debris in the marine environment as a result of poor or insufficient waste management, lack of sufficient recycling / recovery and bad practices such as land and marine litter. These are large and complex issues with societal and economic challenges, and are more than any single entity, industry, or government can solve. Building on work in individual regions, the undersigned organizations are coming together to work with governments, NGOs, researchers and other stakeholders to prevent marine litter.
### WE WILL
-
Contribute to solutions by working in public-private partnerships aimed at preventing marine debris;
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Work with the scientific community and researchers to better understand and evaluate the scope, origins and impact of and solutions to marine litter;
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Promote comprehensive science-based policies and enforcement of existing laws to prevent marine litter;
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Help spread knowledge regarding eco-efficient waste management systems and practices, particularly in communities and countries that border our oceans and watersheds;
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Enhance opportunities to recover plastic products for recycling and energy recovery;
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Steward the transport and distribution of plastic resin pellets and products from supplier to customer to prevent product loss and encourage our customers to do the same.
Success in these efforts will require sustained, good faith cooperation among a wide range of stakeholders. We will do our part and invite other organisations to join us.
### JOINT DECLARATION
Plastic materials deliver significant societal benefits, including energy and resource savings, consumer protection and innovations that improve health care, reduce food spoilage and improve quality of life. For society to receive the benefits that plastics can provide, it is essential to properly recover them so that litter does not threaten our natural environment, including marine ecosystems.
Investigations by marine scientists are highlighting the extent to which littered plastic and other materials are ending up as debris in our oceans and the consequences for the marine environment. The organizations below are firmly committed to the principle that plastics do not belong in the world’s oceans and should not be littered - plastics should be responsibly used, reused, recycled and finally recovered for their energy value.
Plastic is present as debris in the marine environment as a result of poor or insufficient waste management, lack of sufficient recycling / recovery and bad practices such as land and marine litter. These are large and complex issues with societal and economic challenges, and are more than any single entity, industry, or government can solve. Building on work in individual regions, the undersigned organizations are coming together to work with governments, NGOs, researchers and other stakeholders to prevent marine litter.
### WE WILL
-
Contribute to solutions by working in public-private partnerships aimed at preventing marine debris;
-
Work with the scientific community and researchers to better understand and evaluate the scope, origins and impact of and solutions to marine litter;
-
Promote comprehensive science-based policies and enforcement of existing laws to prevent marine litter;
-
Help spread knowledge regarding eco-efficient waste management systems and practices, particularly in communities and countries that border our oceans and watersheds;
-
Enhance opportunities to recover plastic products for recycling and energy recovery;
-
Steward the transport and distribution of plastic resin pellets and products from supplier to customer to prevent product loss and encourage our customers to do the same.
Success in these efforts will require sustained, good faith cooperation among a wide range of stakeholders. We will do our part and invite other organisations to join us.
---
# Made In The USA
Source: https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/made-in-the-usa.md
# Made In The USA
## HERITAGE
Since 1979, Precision has produced millions of parts and components here in the U.S. for American companies in a variety of industries, including electronics, computing, automotive, medical, aerospace, defense, construction and building, food and beverage, plumbing, irrigation, agricultural, sports, and consumer goods. Growing from a small, family-owned business to a leader in the industry, we build upon our legacy of quality manufacturing, pride in workmanship, and Plastics Made Perfect™ to serve our customers throughout the country.
### RESHORING
Precision has worked with many American businesses looking to bring their manufacturing sources back to the United States. By offering these companies high quality products and services at competitive prices with the benefits of much shorter lead times, no tariffs or customs expenses, and personalized, easy-to-reach customer service, we have been successful in bringing many projects back home to the U.S.
### AMERICAN MADE
We are proud to support multiple associations and organizations that represent, service and work to strengthen the U.S. economy. Additionally, we are involved in the [Made in California](https://www.cmtc.com/made-in-california-profile/precision-molded-plastics-inc) program and the [Manufacturer’s Council of the Inland Empire](https://mfgcouncilie.com/), both of which service and support the state and local communities and economies. Together we can strengthen our country and help it thrive here at home and successfully compete in the global economy.
![made in the usa](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/american_made.jpg)
---
# Quality
Source: https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/quality.md
# Quality
## QUALITY MANAGEMENT SYSTEM
In order to provide our customers with the perfect solutions to fill all of their injection molded plastic needs, we have implemented and maintain a detailed and thorough Quality Management System (QMS). Our QMS is a dynamic, process-oriented structure that governs our entire operations.
Adherence to the QMS helps our overall performance by facilitating and ensuring we consistently provide products and services that meet or exceed our customers’ requirements and expectations. Additionally, it requires us to measure and monitor our operations, to identify areas of risk and opportunity, and regularly to review and analyze our systems and processes, all with the purpose of achieving the objectives of enhanced customer satisfaction and continuous improvement
### ISO 9001:2015
ISO is the International Organization for Standardization, which is headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland. It is an independent, non-governmental organization that is the world’s largest developer of voluntary international standards.
ISO 9001:2015 sets out the approved criteria for a quality management system and is the current version of the standard. Our quality management system has been audited and certified to be in compliance with the ISO 9001:2015 standard. Please click [here](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Precision_Multi_Site_ISO_9001_2015.pdf) to view our certificate.
### QUALITY POLICY
Consistent with its goals of providing Plastics Made Perfect™ and of being a leader in its industry, Precision is committed to achieving a number of objectives, which are stated in its official [Quality Policy](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Quality_Policy_Precision_2023.pdf).
![](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/slide2-1024x439.jpg) [
ISO Certificate
](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Precision_Multi_Site_ISO_9001_2015.pdf)
[
Quality Policy
](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Quality_Policy_Precision_2023.pdf)
---
# Glossary
Source: https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/glossary.md
# Glossary
In addition to manufacturing of parts, plastic injection molding involves a variety of related fields, including mold building, engineering, part design, quality assurance and inspection, machining, secondary operations, decoration, assembly, and more. As such, there are quite a few specialized concepts used by industry professionals. Accordingly, we compiled this glossary to act as a simple guide and a quick reference tool for all those interested. If there is a topic you do not see here or would like to know more about, we would be happy to provide you with whatever information you need.
## ADDITIVES
Material additives are combined with different plastics to enhance certain characteristics, such as to provide UV protection, strength, antimicrobial protection, and flame retardance.
### ALTERNATIVE RESINS
Alternative resins are replacement materials that could lower costs, improve mold performance, and/or enhance part quality.
### AMORPHOUS
See **Crystallinity**.
### ASSEMBLY
Assembly related to plastic injection molding can include everything from attaching two parts to combining a part and other components into a portion of or a complete product, some of which often can be done by a machine operator while the machine is producing parts.
### BRIDGE TOOLING
Bridge tooling refers to building low-volume molds to transition a plastic injection molding program from the R&D or prototyping phase to fabricating high-volume, multiple cavity molds.
### CAVITY
In a plastic injection mold, the cavity is an impression in the front, stationary half of the mold.
### CAVITY BALANCE
Multi-cavity plastic injection molds should have cavity balance, meaning the number of cavities or flow groups (collections of cavities) on both sides of the sprue should be equal, and there should be a geometrically balanced runner system.
### CLAMPING FORCE
Clamping force is the amount of pressure applied by an injection molding machine to a mold to keep it closed, which is in opposition to the fluid pressure of the compressed resin within the mold cavity and runner system.
### COLD RUNNER
In a plastic injection mold with a cold runner, molten thermoplastic is injected from the molding machine through a sprue into a series of runners leading into the mold cavities, which form the parts. (See also **Sprue** and **Hot Runner**.)
### COLORANT
Plastic colorants are chemical compounds, which are added to the base material of a plastic injection molded part to achieve the desired hue, and they come in the form of dyes and pigments. (See also **Let-down Ratio**.)
### CORE
The core is the movable, rear half of the mold that forms the part when the mold is closed.
### CRITICAL DIMENSIONS
Critical dimensions are identified locations on an injection molded part where specific tolerances must be met to ensure proper form, fit and function of the part.
### CRYSTALLINITY
The structure of a polymer is defined in terms of crystallinity or the degree of order in the molecules’ arrangement. A well-ordered polymer is considered crystalline, which is what gives them strength and rigidity. The opposite is called amorphous, which has greater flexibility and elasticity. Most polymers have some of both structures.
### CYCLE COUNTERS
Cycle counters monitor the opening and closing of plastic injection molds and cannot be reset.
### CYCLE TIME
Cycle time is the total time required to complete all stages of the injection molding cycle, including Fill (Injection), Packing/Holding (Pressure), Cooling (Mold Closed), and Mold Open (Ejection).
### DECORATION
Plastic injection molded parts can be decorated using a variety of methods, the most common of which include pad printing, hot stamping, thermal transfer, and in-mold decoration.
### DENSITY
Density is the mass per unit volume of a material (Density = Mass / Volume). (See also **Mass** and **Specific Gravity**.)
### DESIGN FOR MANUFACTURABILITY (DFM)
A Design for Manufacturability (DFM) study analyzes the design of an injection molded part with the intent of optimizing the quality of the part and the efficiency of the manufacturing/molding process.
### DRAFT
Draft refers to the angle, slant or taper of a part surface or face, which facilitates ejection of the part from the mold.
### EJECTION
Part ejection in a plastic injection mold commonly is achieve by using ejector pins, sleeves, blades, stripper rings, pusher plates, compressed air, or a rotating core (for internal threads).
### FAMILY MOLD
A family mold has cavities to make two or more different parts. They often have runner shutoffs, so parts can be produced independently, even using different colors and plastics.
### FIRST ARTICLE INSPECTIONS (FAI)
First article inspections evaluate every aspect of an initial sample in relation to governing specifications, which can include dimensional, material and aesthetic requirements.
### GATE
The gate is where molten plastic enters the cavity in a mold and forms the part.
### HOLES
Through holes (or thru holes) go completely through a part, whereas blind holes extend to a certain depth and do not break through to the other side.
### HOT RUNNER
In a plastic injection mold with a hot runner, plastic is injected directly into the cavities, thereby eliminating the series of runners.
### HYGROSCOPIC
Hygroscopic resins absorb moisture into their molecular structure if exposed to humid air, whereas in nonhygroscopic plastics, absorbed moisture only collects on the surface.
### IMPACT MODIFIERS
Impact modifiers are additives included in a polymer compound to compensate for brittleness by absorbing the energy of an impact or by dissipating it and usually are elastomeric or rubbery in nature.
### INSERT MOLDING
The process of insert molding involves molding plastic around a preformed insert, which usually is metal. The inserts are placed in the mold during the injection molding process, thereby eliminating the need to install the inserts after the parts are manufactured, thus often reducing costs.
### INTERCHANGEABLE INSERTS
A part with different variations sometimes can be made using interchangeable inserts in a mold instead of building separate tooling for each version of the part.
### INTERNAL THREADS
The most common methods for creating internal threads in a molded part are with rotating cores, collapsible cores, hand-loaded inserts, bump-off ejection, or by machining as a secondary operation.
### LAY
The lay is the general direction of the pattern of a surface. (See also **Surface Finish**, **Surface Roughness**, **Waviness**.)
### LET-DOWN RATIO
The amount or percentage of color concentrate used when molding a colored part is called the let-down ratio, which typically is between 1% to 5%, and the percentage used depends on how much colorant is needed to achieve a color match using the base resin. (See also **Colorant**.)
### LIVING HINGES
Living hinges are thin, flexible sections of a plastic part that can bend and fold repeatedly and often are used to reduce the number of components in an assembly.
### MASS
Mass is the amount of matter in an object (as opposed to weight, which depends on gravity). (See also **Density** and **Specific Gravity**.)
### MATERIAL CERTIFICATION
While different names and definitions exist, a Certificate of Compliance or a Certificate of Conformance (or Conformity) usually certifies (a) that the material supplied or used in the manufacturing of goods contained within a shipment conforms to the requirements; (b) that parts have been processed in accordance with applicable instructions and specifications; or (c) that parts conform to the applicable specifications. Information related to testing and traceability often is included.
### MATERIAL DATA SHEETS
Material data sheets for plastics are provided by the polymer suppliers and describe the properties of a specific grade, which can include physical, mechanical, thermal and processing information.
### MESH MODEL
Mesh model part files describe triangulated or tessellated surfaces containing geometric shapes and are used by 3D printers. (See also **Solid Model**.)
### MOLD CLASSIFICATIONS
Commonly-accepted plastic injection mold classifications range from Class 105 (Prototype/Up to 500 cycles) to Class 101 (High Volume/1 Million+ cycles) and consider mold design, construction, materials and components.
### MOLD QUALIFICATION
Mold qualification looks to see if part dimensions are to specification and if the part meets aesthetic or surface requirements.
### MOLD STACK HEIGHT
The height of a plastic injection mold refers to the distance between the two outside support plates (or when the plates are “stacked” on top of each other), although that dimension is horizontal when placed in most molding machines.
### OVERMOLDING
Overmolding is a process where one type of thermoplastic, (often an elastomer or a urethane), is molded over a previously-molded part, which acts as a substrate, thereby producing a single part with two layers of plastic.
### PARTING LINE
The parting line is a seam on a finished part where the two mold halves met when they were closed.
### PLASTIC INJECTION MOLDING
Plastic injection molding is a process where parts are produced by a machine that injects molten plastic into a mold.
### PREVENTATIVE MAINTENANCE
Preventative maintenance of a plastic injection mold includes cleaning and repairs and should be performed regularly over the life of the mold to ensure mold performance, tool longevity, and part quality.
### PROCESS VALIDATION
In plastic injection molding, process validation establishes the optimal process parameters for a particular mold, so that it consistently produces parts that conform to the specifications.
### QUALITY ASSURANCE
Quality assurance is the part of a quality management system that focuses on ensuring that quality requirements are met.
### QUALITY CONTROL
Quality control is the part of a quality management system that focuses on fulfilling quality requirements.
### QUALITY INSPECTION
Quality inspection includes measuring, examining, testing and analyzing the product of a manufacturing process to determine conformity with quality requirements.
### REGRIND
Regrind refers to plastic from sprues, runners and rejected parts, which has been reclaimed, granulated and usually mixed with virgin material in a predetermined percentage to mold parts. (See also **Virgin Material**.)
### RELATIVE THERMAL INDEX
Relative thermal index is a measurement of the maximum temperature a material can be exposed to over time without significant loss of properties.
### REQUEST FOR QUOTE (RFQ)
A request for quote (or quotation) is a process where a company asks for a quote (or proposal) from a supplier for a product or service.
### RUNNER
A runner is a channel in a plastic injection mold that feeds molten resin from the nozzle or sprue into the gate.
### RUNNER SHUTOFFS
Runner shutoffs block molten resin from entering certain cavities in a plastic injection mold and generally are used in family molds, where part demand can be unequal.
### SECONDARY OPERATIONS
Secondary operation performed by plastic injection molders can include machining, decorating, assembly, ultrasonic welding, and other finishing services.
### SHORE HARDNESS
Shore hardness of a plastic, elastomer or rubber is an indication of its resistance to indentation and is measured with a durometer.
### SHOT SIZE
Shot size is the amount of resin required to fill the sprue, runner and cavities of a plastic injection mold and can be calculated in terms of volume or mass.
### SHRINKAGE
Shrinkage is the reduction in size of an injection molded plastic part as it cools after injection, and all polymers have different shrink rates.
### SIDE ACTIONS
Side actions are mechanical components in a plastic injection mold that are used to create undercuts or internal threads in parts by operating and moving independently from the two mold halves, examples of which include slides, lifters, collapsible cores, and unscrewing (or unwinding) mechanisms.
### SOLID MODEL
Solid model files are three dimensional representations of parts containing geometric and topological data, which are used to build plastic injection molds. (See also **Mesh Model**.)
### SPECIFIC GRAVITY
Specific gravity is the ratio of the density of a material to the density of water (which is 1 gram per cubic cm). Quick Conversion: Density / 1000 = Specific Gravity or Specific Gravity x 1000 = Density. (See also **Density** and **Mass**.)
### SPRUE
The sprue is where molten plastic flows from the injection molding machine into the mold.
### STEEL SAFE
Plastic injection molds often are built steel safe in certain critical areas, leaving extra metal in those spots that can be machined away for any necessary adjustments.
### SURFACE FINISH
Surface finish of a plastic part refers to its texture or topography (i.e., the surface shapes and features or the threedimensional quality of the surface), which generally is achieved by polishing the mold and can range from high glossy to rough. Texture can be characterized by three things: The lay, surface roughness, and waviness of the surface. (See also **Lay**, **Surface Roughness**, **Waviness**.)
### SURFACE ROUGHNESS
Roughness refers to the average of vertical deviations from the surface over a specified length of surface. (See also **Lay**, **Surface Finish**, **Waviness**.)
### TECHNOPOLYMER
A technopolymer is a base resin, often with a reinforcing additive, used to produce a part requiring high strength and impactability, sometimes replacing metal as the part’s material.
### THERMOPLASTIC ELASTOMERS
Thermoplastic elastomers have both plastic and rubber-like qualities and can be injection molded.
### THERMOPLASTICS
A thermoplastic is a polymer that can be melted and reshaped repeatedly. (See also **Thermosets**.)
### THERMOSETS
A thermoset is a resin that is irreversibly hardened by curing from a soft solid or viscous liquid. (See also **Thermoplastics**.)
### TOLERANCES
Tolerances for specified dimensions of a molded part are ranges of acceptable deviation from too small to too large.
### TONNAGE
Tonnage represents the clamping force of a plastic injection molding machine.
### TOOL
In the plastic injection molding industry, the term “tool” often is used to refer to a mold.
### UNDERCUTS
Undercuts are protrusions or indentations that impede ejection of a part and usually require slides in the mold.
### UV RESISTANCE
UV resistance for plastic parts is created by including an additive with the polymer to inhibit degradation, discoloration or deterioration, which is applied in different concentrations depending on the protection time desired.
### VENT
Vents are shallow grooves or slots machined into the cavity blocks of an injection mold, which allow air and gases to escape from the cavity as it is being filled with molten plastic.
### VIRGIN MATERIAL
Virgin material refers to plastic that has not been used, processed or mixed with regrind or another material. (See also **Regrind**.)
### WAVINESS
Waviness is the measure of surface irregularities with a spacing greater than that of the surface roughness. (See also **Lay**, **Surface Finish**, **Surface Roughness**.)
[
Download Glossary
](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Plastic_Injection_Molding_Glossary_Precision_2023.pdf)
---
# Services
Source: https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/services.md
# Services
As a vertically integrated, full service, plastic injection molding company, our tooling engineers, molding technicians, production personnel, quality professionals, and manufacturing consultants all collaborate with each other and with you to create an optimized supply chain program. From product design support to mold building, part production, and finishing operations, Precision offers a full suite of services and turnkey solutions for all your plastic manufacturing needs.
![](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/custom_plastic_injection_molding.jpg)
## PLASTIC INJECTION MOLDING
Using everything from specialty and engineering-grade materials to commodity resins, we manufacture plastic injection molded parts and components to meet the requirements of virtually any project. With machines ranging from 20 to 300 tons of clamping pressure, Precision focuses on producing small to midsize parts, up to approximately 12” x 18” or one and a half pounds, depending on material type. Further, utilizing highly-automated processes, we specialize in high volume production and have a minimum program demand of 10,000 units annually.
![](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/full_service_contract_manufacturing.jpg)
### FULL-SERVICE MANUFACTURING
As a trusted supplier for OEMs and Fortune 500 companies, we manage many complex manufacturing programs. This can include design and engineering support, mold building, material and component sourcing, production of parts, secondary operations, decorating, assembly, and more. Additionally, Precision assists with research and development (R&D) of projects, and we have a quality management system certified to ISO 9001:2015 that governs our entire operations. Our core competency is manufacturing, and we focus on that so you can focus on yours.
![](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/custom_mold_building.jpg)
## CUSTOM MOLD BUILDING
Precision provides complete tooling solutions for the development, launching and maintenance of successful plastic injection molding programs. Our team of experienced professionals designs and builds custom molds perfectly engineered to meet the requirements of your project.
[
Learn More
](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/mold-building/)
![](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/value_added_services.jpg)
### VALUE ADDED SERVICES
Our team possesses the skills and resources to handle any of your products’ secondary needs, including in-mold decorating, labeling, pad printing, machining or hot stamping. In addition, during the R&D phase of a new program, we often produce prototype samples of new part designs with our in-house 3D printer. Whatever the job, we are prepared to meet its requirements and to exceed your expectations.
![](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/product_design.jpg)
### PRODUCT DESIGN SUPPORT
We will perform a detailed Design for Manufacturability/Moldability ("DFM") study, including a mold flow analysis, and will work with you and your engineering team in optimizing your product design to aid in its manufacturability, strength and quality. From concept through completion, we work with our customers to help them refine their products' form and function, thereby maximizing performance and profitability.
![](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/secondary_operations.jpg)
### SECONDARY OPERATIONS
Regarding machining operations and/or hardware installation, we will build your sub-assemblies and ship them ready for integration into the final product. Whatever the additional needs of your project are, our team is well equipped to make sure they are taken care of effectively and efficiently.
![](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/insert_and_overmolding.jpg)
## INSERT & OVERMOLDING
Precision provides technical service solutions to exceed your every need. Whether it is the addition of molded-in mechanical fasteners or highly conductive electronic connectors, we have a variety of insert and overmolding services available.
![](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/decorating.jpg)
### PART DECORATION
Precision offers a variety of decorating services, including pad printing, hot stamping, and full color thermal transfer. We utilize modern processes and cutting edge technology to create the highest quality decorating possible.
![](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/complete_assemblies.jpg)
### COMPLETE ASSEMBLIES
Precision provides turnkey contract manufacturing fulfillment services, including injection molding, product assembly, decoration, retail packaging, and logistics. Whatever your job requires, we are ready, willing and able to get it done.
![](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/packaging_and_product_distribution.jpg)
### PACKAGING & PRODUCT DISTRIBUTION
We work closely with our customers assessing both short and long term requirements. We will ensure that you have exactly what you need, right when you need it.
![](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/custom_plastic_injection_molding.jpg)
## PLASTIC INJECTION MOLDING
Using everything from specialty and engineering-grade materials to commodity resins, we manufacture plastic injection molded parts and components to meet the requirements of virtually any project. With machines ranging from 15 to 310 tons of clamping pressure, Precision focuses on producing small to midsize parts, up to approximately 12” x 18” or one and a half pounds, depending on material type. Further, utilizing highly-automated processes, we specialize in high volume production and have a minimum program demand of 10,000 units annually.
![](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/full_service_contract_manufacturing.jpg)
### FULL-SERVICE MANUFACTURING
As a trusted supplier for OEMs and Fortune 500 companies, we manage many complex manufacturing programs. This can include design and engineering support, mold building, material and component sourcing, production of parts, secondary operations, decorating, assembly, and more. Additionally, Precision assists with research and development (R&D) of projects, and we have an ISO 9001:2015 certified quality management system that governs our entire operations. Our core competency is manufacturing, and we focus on that so you can focus on yours.
![](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/custom_mold_building.jpg)
## CUSTOM MOLD BUILDING
Precision Molded Plastics provides complete tooling solutions for the development, launching and maintenance of successful plastic injection molding programs. Our team of experienced professionals designs and builds custom molds perfectly engineered to meet the requirements of your project.
[
Learn More
](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/mold-building/)
![](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/value_added_services.jpg)
### VALUE ADDED SERVICES
Our team possesses the skills and resources to handle any of your products’ secondary needs, including in-mold decorating, labeling, pad printing, machining or hot stamping. In addition, during the R&D phase of a new program, we often produce prototype samples of new part designs with our in-house 3D printer. Whatever the job, we are prepared to meet its requirements and to exceed your expectations.
![](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/product_design.jpg)
### PRODUCT DESIGN SUPPORT
We will perform a detailed Design for Manufacturability/Moldability ("DFM") study, including a mold flow analysis, and will work with you and your engineering team in optimizing your product design to aid in its manufacturability, strength and quality. From concept through completion, we work with our customers to help them refine their products' form and function, thereby maximizing performance and profitability.
![](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/secondary_operations.jpg)
### SECONDARY OPERATIONS
Regarding machining operations and/or hardware installation, we will build your sub-assemblies and ship them ready for integration into the final product. Whatever the additional needs of your project are, our team is well equipped to make sure they are taken care of effectively and efficiently.
![](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/insert_and_overmolding.jpg)
## INSERT & OVERMOLDING
Precision Molded Plastics provides technical service solutions to exceed your every need. Whether it is the addition of molded-in mechanical fasteners or highly conductive electronic connectors, we have a variety of insert and overmolding services available.
![](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/decorating.jpg)
### PART DECORATION
Precision Molded Plastics offers a variety of decorating services, including pad printing, hot stamping, and full color thermal transfer. We utilize modern processes and cutting edge technology to create the highest quality decorating possible.
![](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/complete_assemblies.jpg)
### COMPLETE ASSEMBLIES
Precision Molded Plastics provides turnkey contract manufacturing fulfillment services, including injection molding, product assembly, decoration, retail packaging, and logistics. Whatever your job requires, we are ready, willing and able to get it done.
![](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/packaging_and_product_distribution.jpg)
### PACKAGING & PRODUCT DISTRIBUTION
We work closely with our customers assessing both short and long term requirements. We will ensure that you have exactly what you need, right when you need it.
[
.fa-secondary{opacity:.4}
Services List
](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Services_and_Capabilities_Precision_2023.pdf)
---
# About
Source: https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/about.md
# Precision Molded Plastics
Precision is a vertically integrated, plastic injection molding company
that builds custom molds and tooling, manufactures parts and components,
and performs a variety of value-added services all under one roof.
https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/plastic_injection_molding_video_southern_ca.mp4
## Company History
At Precision, we are proud of our heritage and of the company we’ve become today. Throughout our history, it has been the dedication of our team members and our adherence to the highest standards in production and customer service that has allowed us to grow into a leading manufacturer of injection molded plastic products.
![](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/old_pmp_warehouse.jpg)
### Beginning
Established by Ted F. VanVoorhis in 1979, Precision Molded Plastics was formed as an "ultra-small parts" specialty molder primarily supporting the electronics and emerging computer industries. Mr. VanVoorhis, a charter member of the Southern California chapter of the Society of Plastics Engineers, quickly established Precision as the premier molder in the field of what is known today as "micromolding."
![](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/80s_pmp_warehouse.jpg)
### Expansion
During the 1980s, the business expanded to include the manufacture of medical, aerospace, food, and irrigation products. In the following decade, the company grew to utilizing over twenty injection molding machines, encompassing three buildings, and servicing virtually all industries.
![](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/looking_north.jpg)
### Looking Forward
In 2004, Mr. VanVoorhis's son, David, assumed leadership of the company and was appointed as its President/CEO in 2009, which he still is today. Carrying on the tradition of the company's focus on high quality production standards and personalized customer service, and leading the corporation through the acquisitions of other businesses, Mr. VanVoorhis has grown Precision from a small, family-run business into a leader in the industry.
![](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/old_pmp_warehouse.jpg)
### Beginning
Established by Ted F. VanVoorhis in 1979, Precision Molded Plastics was formed as an "ultra-small parts" specialty molder primarily supporting the electronics and emerging computer industries. Mr. VanVoorhis, a charter member of the Southern California chapter of the Society of Plastics Engineers, quickly established PMP as the premier molder in the field of what is known today as "MicroMolding."
![](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/80s_pmp_warehouse.jpg)
### Expansion
During the 1980s, the business expanded to include the manufacture of medical, aerospace, food, and irrigation products. In the following decade, the company grew to utilizing over twenty injection molding machines, encompassing three buildings, and servicing virtually all industries.
![](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/looking_north.jpg)
### Looking Forward
In 2004, Mr. VanVoorhis's son, David, assumed leadership of the company and was appointed as its President/CEO in 2009, which he still is today. Carrying on the tradition of the company's focus on high quality production standards and personalized customer service, and leading the corporation through the acquisitions of other businesses, Mr. VanVoorhis has grown PMP from a small, family-run business into a leader in the industry.
## CORE VALUES & COMPETENCIES
A fundamental distinguishing characteristic of enduring great companies is that they preserve a cherished core ideology while simultaneously stimulating progress and change in everything else. Put differently, the competencies associated with each core value are the essence of how we work to achieve our mission of providing people with the perfect solutions to fill all of their injection molded plastic needs.
### Professionalism
-
Customer Service Orientation
-
Accountability
-
Dependability
-
Respect
-
Interpersonal Skills
### Productivity
-
Professional Expertise
-
Developing Self
-
Continious Improvement
### Knowledge
-
Prioritization
-
Quality Assurance
-
Effeciency
-
Initiative
### Collaboration
-
Clear Communitcation
-
Teamwork
-
Analytical Thinking
### Creativity
-
Innovation
-
Problem Solving
-
Adaptability
### Professionalism
-
Customer Service Orientation
-
Accountability
-
Dependability
-
Respect
-
Interpersonal Skills
### Productivity
-
Professional Expertise
-
Developing Self
-
Continious Improvement
### Knowledge
-
Prioritization
-
Quality Assurance
-
Effeciency
-
Initiative
### Collaboration
-
Clear Communitcation
-
Teamwork
-
Analytical Thinking
### Creativity
-
Innovation
-
Problem Solving
-
Adaptability
#### QUALITY STANDARDS
Precision has a quality management system certified to ISO 9001:2015.
Please click [here](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/quality/) for more information.
#### ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY
Read about [our commitment](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/environmental-sustainability/) to a clean environment.
[
.fa-secondary{opacity:.4}
Corporate Brochure
](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Corporate_Brochure_Precision_2023.pdf)
---
# Careers
Source: https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/careers.md
# Careers
![](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/careers-1024x366.jpg)
## We're Always Looking For Industry Leaders!
Precision currently is soliciting resumés of highly qualified applicants for the following roles:
- **Master Molder II **(Paulson, RJG or Equal)- **Quality Dept. Personnel **(ISO 9001:2015 experience required)To submit your resume, please email it as a PDF file to [jobs@precisionmoldedplastics.com](mailto:jobs@precisionmoldedplastics.com),
fax us at (909) 981-9251, or use the Resume Uploader on this page.
## RESUMÉ UPLOADER
---
# Thank You RFQ
Source: https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/request-a-quote/thank-you-rfq.md
# Thank You
![](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/plastic_shapes-1024x683.jpg)
Thank you for your quote request. You should receive a confirmation email from us within a few minutes. If you do not see one, please be sure to check your spam folder.
## What's Next?
At this point, one of our representatives will review your submission and call you within one business day to discuss the details of your program. If you would like to get in touch before then, please feel free to call us at [909-981-9662](tel:+19099819662), to email us at [sales@precisionmoldedplastics.com](mailto:sales@precisionmoldedplastics.com), or to use the chat widget below.
## What Can You Do?
For more information, take a look at some of the materials on our [Resources](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/resources/) page, and you can visit our [blog](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/blog/), which contains some good articles about plastic injection molding. Additionally, you can follow or connect with us on our social media channels listed at the bottom of this page.
Thank you again, and we look forward to speaking with you.
---
# Thank You Contact
Source: https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/thank-you-contact.md
# Message Sent
Thank you for contacting us. We will respond to your submission at our soonest convenience.
[
Back To Home Page
](https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/)
---
# Conditions Of Use
Source: https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/conditions-of-use.md
# Conditions Of USe
**Conditions of using our website**
- This website promotes the business referred to on it. In these conditions, the business will be referred to as ‘we’ and/or ’our’.
- A wide range of intellectual property rights are used in and relating to this website, including:
a. the trademarks and logos;
b. the design, text, graphics and other content of the web pages on this website, together with all the web addresses associated with those web pages; and
c. all the software used in relation to this website.
- We are the owner or the authorized licensee of these intellectual property rights. You agree not to copy any content (including images) on this website without our consent.
**About these conditions**
-  If you access or use any part of this website you agree to these conditions. If you do not want to agree to these conditions, do not access or use this website.
- We may change these conditions at any time without giving you notice. Please check these conditions from time to time for any changes. By continuing to use the website you agree to all the changes we make to these conditions.
**Using this website**
- We collect and use information in line with our Privacy Policy. By using this website, you agree to the way in which we collect and use your information.
- You cannot use this website: for any unlawful purpose; to send spam; to harm, threaten, abuse or harass another person, or in a way that invades someone's privacy or is (in our reasonable opinion) offensive or is unacceptable or damaging to us, our customers or suppliers; to create, check, confirm, update or amend your own or someone else's databases, records, directories, customer lists, mailing or prospecting lists; to tamper with, update or change any part of the website; in a way that affects how it is run; in a way that imposes an unreasonable or disproportionately burden on our or our suppliers' communications and technical systems as determined by us; or using any automated means to monitor or copy the website or its content, or to interfere with or attempt to interfere with how the website works.
**If you provide content for this website**
- If you provide any material to this website (for example, by providing ratings and reviews, comments, articles, or uploading any other content in any format (including video)) (each “User Content”), you agree to grant us permission, irrevocably and free of charge, to use User Content (including altering and adapting it for operational or editorial reasons) in any media worldwide, for our own marketing, research and promotional activities and our internal business purposes which may include providing the User Content to selected third party partners, service providers, social media and networking sites. By posting ratings and reviews, you agree to our Guidelines for Ratings and Reviews.
- You own your User Content at all times, and you continue to have the right to use it in any way you choose.
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- If you do not want to grant us the permissions set out above, please do not provide any material to the Website
- We have no obligation to publish your User Content on the Website and we retain the right to remove any User Content at any time and for any reason.
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**If you send a message through this website**
14. This website is provided by [Web Semantics](https://www.websemantics.com). ("Web Semantics"). Web Semantics shall have the right to scan messages sent using the contact form on this website manually and automatically and to store such messages. Any personal data you include in such messages may be (a) used by Web Semantics for purposes reasonably associated with provision of this website and services, (b) disclosed where disclosure is required by law, and (c) used where any of your actions have breached these Conditions of Use. Personal data may be used by Web Semantics in an aggregated form as permitted by applicable US laws.
**Disclaimers**
- You use the website at your own risk.
- You should not rely on the website for advice.
- As far as the relevant laws allow, we do not guarantee that: there will be no problems with how you use the website; or the computer or server you use to log on to the website is free of viruses or other harmful programs.
**Limits to our liability**
- Under no circumstances will we, the owner or operator of this website, or any of their group companies, employees, officers or agents, or any other organization involved in creating, producing, maintaining or distributing the website be liable for any loss of: profits; business or business opportunities; savings you expect to make; goodwill; use of, or corruption to information; or information.
- If we do not keep to these conditions, they will only be liable for losses you have suffered as a direct result. We are not liable to you for any other losses whether such losses are because we have not kept to our obligations or contract, because of something we have done or not done in negligence, due to defamatory statements or liability for a product or otherwise as a result of: using or relying on the website; not being able to use the website; any mistake, fault, failure to do something, missing information, or virus on the website or if it does not work properly because of incidents outside of our control such as (but not limited to) interruptions to communication and networks and circumstances beyond our control; theft, destruction of information or someone getting access to our records, programs or services without our permission; goods, products, services or information received through or advertised on any website which we link to from this website; or any information, data, message or other material which you email, post, upload, reproduce, send, or otherwise distribute or receive using the website.
**The whole agreement**
- These conditions make up the whole agreement between you and us in how you use the website. If a court decides that a condition is not valid, the rest of the conditions will still apply.
**The law**
- The laws of the state of Washington (without reference to its conflict of laws principles) apply to your use of the website and these conditions. We control the website from within the United States. However, you can get access to the website from other places around the world. Although, these places may have different laws from the laws of the state of Washington, by using the website you agree that the laws of the state of Washington will apply to everything relating to you using the website and you agree to keep to these laws. We have the right to take you to court in the country and/ or state that you live in.
*Revised Janurary 2022*
### Questions?
**(818)530-5100**
---
# User Agreement
Source: https://www.precisionmoldedplastics.com/user-agreement.md
# User Agreement
More details coming soon.
### Have Additional Questions?
**(818)530-5100**
---