INJECTION MOLDED Meaning and
Definition
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Injection molded refers to a manufacturing process commonly used in the production of plastic components and products. It entails the creation of intricate three-dimensional objects by injecting molten thermoplastic polymers into a specially designed mold under high pressure. This method efficiently and accurately replicates the shape and design of the mold, facilitating the mass production of complex geometries.
The process of injection molding involves several steps. First, the thermoplastic pellets are fed into a heated barrel, which melts and homogenizes the material. Once the plastic is molten, it is injected into a mold cavity under high pressure using a reciprocating screw mechanism. The high pressure ensures that the molten plastic flows into every intricate detail of the mold, accurately replicating the desired shape and design. After a specific cooling time, the mold is opened, and the solidified product is ejected.
Injection molded products can be found in a plethora of industries, due to their versatility and cost-effectiveness. These products range from small and intricate precision components found in electronics and automotive industries to large and durable items in household appliances and packaging.
The benefits of injection molding include its ability to achieve high production volumes, precision in design, cost-effectiveness for mass production, and the ability to produce complex geometries. Injection molded products often exhibit consistent quality and can be manufactured in a range of colors, textures, and surface finishes.
Etymology of INJECTION MOLDED
The word "injection molded" originates from the combination of two terms: "injection" and "molded".
- "Injection" comes from the Latin word "injicere", which means "to throw or throw in". The term evolved in the English language to refer to the process of forcing or introducing a substance into a specified place.
- "Molded" is derived from the Old English word "mǣlstede", which means "a form from which something is made". It relates to the action of shaping or forming a material into a desired form or structure.
When these two terms are combined, "injection molded" describes a manufacturing process where a molten material is injected into a mold or cavity. The material then cools and solidifies, taking the shape of the mold, resulting in a finished product.
