While both standard and precision injection molding share similarities in terms of the basic principles of plastic injection molding, there are key differences that set precision molding apart.

1. Tolerance And Accuracy

Standard injection molding is typically used for parts that have more lenient tolerances, which may range from ±0.005 inches to ±0.020 inches.

This level of precision is suitable for general consumer products and non-critical components.

Precision injection molding, on the other hand, is required when parts must have much tighter tolerances, often within ±0.001 inches or even smaller. This level of accuracy is critical for industries where even minor deviations can result in product failure, such as in medical devices or aerospace components.

Precision molding is ideal for creating intricate, small parts that must fit together perfectly or meet stringent performance standards.

At Bosworth Plastics, our precision molding capabilities allow us to meet the tight tolerances required by specialist industries such as healthcare, electronics, and automotive, ensuring each component is accurate and consistent.

2. Material Selection And Control

In standard injection molding, the choice of material is often determined by factors such as cost, durability, and ease of manufacturing.

While these considerations are important, the material’s properties (such as shrinkage and viscosity) may not need to be as tightly controlled as in precision molding.

Precision injection molding, however, requires greater control over the material used. The material’s flow properties, shrinkage rate, and temperature resistance must be carefully monitored and adjusted to ensure that the finished product meets exacting specifications.

For example, certain medical devices or high-performance automotive parts may require specific materials that provide greater structural integrity or heat resistance.

At Bosworth Plastics, we work closely with our clients to select the best materials for precision molding projects. We also use advanced monitoring systems to control the material’s properties during the injection process, ensuring consistency and accuracy in every batch.

3. Molding Equipment And Technology

While both standard and precision molding use injection machines, precision molding requires more sophisticated and high-precision equipment. Standard molding machines may not have the level of control needed to maintain tight tolerances, particularly when dealing with complex geometries or small parts.

Conversely, precision injection molding machines feature advanced controls that allow for highly accurate management of injection speed, pressure, and temperature. These machines can make micro-adjustments during the molding process, ensuring each part is produced to exact specifications.

At Bosworth Plastics, we harness state-of-the-art precision molding machines equipped with the latest control systems to guarantee accuracy and repeatability. Our machines are capable of producing complex parts with tight tolerances, no matter the size or complexity of the component.

4. Production Environment

While standard injection molding can be performed in general manufacturing environments, precision injection molding often requires a more controlled setting.

For example, parts that will be used in medical devices or aerospace components must be produced in cleanrooms or environments with minimal contamination. This ensures that the parts meet the necessary standards for safety and performance.

Bosworth Plastics is equipped to handle precision molding in cleanroom environments, providing an added level of assurance for clients in the healthcare and aerospace industries.