Plastic Extrusion Molding
Plastic extrusion molding is a process in which a
continuous work piece is produced by forcing molten material through a shaped die. As the
hot material exits the die the material is carried along a conveyor, cooled, and cut to
the desired length. Plastic extrusion molding allows for low cost manufacturing of
intricate shapes when a constant cross-section provides the necessary functionality.
Thermoplastic materials are fed from a hopper into the heated barrel of an
extruder. A rotating helical screw inside the barrel pushes the plastic through the barrel
toward the die located at the end of the machine. Molten plastic
is then forced through the die opening.
Possible shapes
Constant cross-section.
Plastic Extrusion Molding Design Guidelines
Keep material thickness uniform.
Avoid sharp internal corners.
Use open sections instead of closed sections.
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Example parts
Window molding, some electronic enclosures, door insulation seals, pipes,
rods.
Advantages of Plastic Extrusion Molding
Low cost when a constant cross-section is sufficient. Can
produce intricate profiles.
Specifications for Plastic Extrusion Molding
 Material - Most
plastics.
Alternative machines
- None.
Tooling - Requires
custom tooling - a die shaped according to your design.
Reducing costs - Reduce number of sharp corners and inner regions. Reduce
cross section area and hence amount of material used.
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Notes
 Long
items will have a slight curvature. Ends are rough cut. Dimensions measured at a cross
section at points along the extrusion may vary slightly.
Processes: Turning
Milling
Laser Cutting
Water Jet Cutting
Wire EDM
Tapping
Bending
Turret Punching
Fine Blanking
Blanking
Steel Rule Die Cutting
Drawing
Injection Molding
Extrusion
Metal Casting
Thermoforming
Forging
Springs
Wire forming
Powder Coating
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