At Drummond Industries, Inc., in Chicago, we offer overmolding services to clients who require rigid components overlaid with a flexible thermoplastic elastomer (TPE). What is overmolding? This process protects parts and products by making them harder to break. The exterior layer requires a single- or double-shot technique and specialized equipment to produce.
Overmolding Requires A Step-By-Step Process
Two or more components are overlaid via the injection molding processes. The base or substrate component has to fully cure before you add additional layers. Adding a second layer produces a solid component with increased strength and durability. For example, items such as the rubber handles of toothbrushes are often created via this process.
Benefit From Increased Product Quality
Overmolding enhances your insert molding production processes with many benefits. These range from more comfortable product handles with better grip to increased durability and insulation from sound and electricity.
- Add a plushy exterior to products.
- Enhance the grip on handles.
- Dampen vibrations and sound.
- Increase product durability.
- Enhance electrical insulation.
What Materials Are Best For Durable Overmolding?
Our team can help you choose the right materials for your products. There are several popular plastics suitable for injection molding, but each has unique qualities. You can learn more about the following material options when you schedule a consultation to discuss your needs.
- Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS)
- High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE)
- Polypropylene (PP)
- Low-Density Polyethylene (LDPE)
- Nylon
- Polycarbonate (PC)
- Polyoxymethylene (POM)
- Thermoplastic Polyurethane (TPU)
- Thermoplastic Rubber (TPR)
- Acrylic Poly (Methyl Methacrylate)
This Useful Process Contributes To Many Industries
Common industries that benefit from overmolding services include hardware, medical, consumer goods, automotive, and cookware. For example, to achieve ergonomic handles, manufacturers use overmolding when making hardware tools and medical devices. Many common household items such as portable electric fans, pens, shampoo bottles, and food containers also benefit from overmolding, which improves the cleanliness and other attributes of these products.
Potential Challenges & How To Overcome Them
Overmolding requires two or more production processes, requiring more time and planning to get your products to market. However, many components only require single-shot injection molding. In other cases, the bonded pieces may separate or become delaminated. You can avoid delamination and other defects by working with trusted companies, such as Drummond Industries, that use the ideal temperature range.
Use Our Overmolding Services To Strengthen Your Products
By working with a top injection molding company in Chicagoland, you can benefit from fast service delivered by local pros. The team at Drummond Industries has served Cook County clients for many years. How can your products benefit from overmolding techniques? Contact us today to set up a consultation with our knowledgeable, customer-focused team to discuss your plastic manufacturing needs.
