The importance of packaging for plastic products

 In today's world, plastic products have become an integral part of our lives. From household items to industrial tools, plastics are used in almost every sector. However, with the increasing use of plastic products, the importance of packaging has also increased significantly. Packaging plays a crucial role in protecting and preserving plastic products throughout the supply chain. In this blog post, we will discuss the importance of packaging for plastic products.

 

Firstly, packaging helps to protect plastic products from damage during transportation and storage. Plastic products are often fragile and can easily get damaged if not handled carefully. Proper packaging ensures that the products are protected from moisture, dust, and other external factors that can cause damage. Moreover, packaging also helps in reducing the risk of theft and tampering during transportation.

 

Secondly, packaging helps to preserve the quality of plastic products. Plastic products are susceptible to degradation over time due to exposure to light, heat, and moisture. Proper packaging helps to prevent these factors from affecting the products and ensures that they remain in good condition for a longer period. This is particularly important for plastic products that have a longer shelf life, such as medical devices and electronic components.

 

Thirdly, packaging plays a vital role in branding and marketing plastic products. The packaging design and quality can significantly impact the consumer's perception of the product. A well-designed and high-quality packaging can create a positive impression on the consumer and increase brand loyalty. Moreover, packaging can also be used as a tool for differentiation in a highly competitive market.

 

Fourthly, packaging helps to reduce the environmental impact of plastic products. Plastic waste is a significant environmental concern, and proper packaging can help to reduce the amount of plastic waste generated. Packaging that is reusable or recyclable can significantly reduce the environmental impact of plastic products. Moreover, packaging can also be designed to use fewer materials, thereby reducing the overall carbon footprint of the product.

In conclusion, packaging is an essential aspect of plastic products that should not be overlooked. Proper packaging helps to protect and preserve the quality of plastic products, enhances branding and marketing efforts, and reduces the environmental impact of plastic waste. As such, businesses that deal with plastic products should give due consideration to packaging design and quality to ensure that their products are well-protected and marketed effectively.

Advanced Plastics: Driving Innovation and Sustainability in New Energy Vehicles

 The global shift towards sustainable energy sources has propelled the popularity of new energy vehicles (NEVs), which rely on electricity or alternative fuels. This transition has introduced new demands for materials used in their manufacturing, with plastics emerging as a critical component due to their lightweight and durable properties. However, traditional automotive plastics fall short of meeting the unique requirements of NEVs, which necessitate materials that are not only lightweight and durable but also resistant to high temperatures and possess superior electrical insulation properties. Such advanced plastics are vital for ensuring the functionality, safety, and efficiency of NEVs.

Advantages of Plastics in New Energy Vehicles

1. Weight Reduction: Plastics significantly reduce the overall weight of vehicles, enhancing energy efficiency and extending the driving range.
2. Cost Efficiency: The use of plastics lowers production costs, making NEVs more affordable for consumers.
3. Design Flexibility: Plastics enable the creation of complex shapes and structures that are unachievable with traditional materials, fostering innovation in vehicle design.

Key Requirements for Plastics in NEVs

To meet the stringent demands of NEVs, manufacturers are developing specialized plastics with the following properties:

• High Strength: Ensures durability and longevity.
• Thermal Stability: Withstands high temperatures, particularly in battery systems.
• Electrical Insulation: Prevents electrical interference and enhances safety.
• Recyclability: Supports sustainability by reducing environmental impact.

Prominent Plastics for NEVs

1. Polyamide 6 (PA6):

• Properties: High mechanical strength, excellent thermal stability, and superior electrical insulation.
• Applications: Ideal for battery packs and other high-temperature components due to its lightweight and heat-resistant nature.

1. Polyphenylene Oxide (PPO):

• Properties: Exceptional electrical insulation, thermal stability, chemical resistance, and UV radiation resistance.
• Applications: Suitable for various NEV components, ensuring durability and safety under harsh conditions.

Conclusion

The rise of new energy vehicles has redefined the role of plastics in the automotive industry. Advanced plastics that combine lightweight properties, durability, thermal stability, and electrical insulation are indispensable for the performance and safety of NEVs. By developing sustainable and environmentally friendly plastics, manufacturers are not only meeting the evolving demands of the industry but also contributing to the broader goals of energy efficiency and affordability. The integration of these innovative materials will continue to drive the growth and adoption of new energy vehicles worldwide.

automotive part

 

Plastic Injection Molding in China

CNMOULDING is a leading supplier and manufacturer of plastic injection molded products, specializing in the automotive and general industry areas. Manufacture. We are certified ISO9001-2015 certificate. We have a professional engineer team to assist our customers to develop their products and tools, with over 100 engineers with more than 10 years of experience. Now we are the leading supplier of plastic injection mold in Shanghai China.

China is one of the largest and most dynamic markets for automotive parts manufacturing, supplying both domestic and international automotive industries.   The country has a well-established supply chain, advanced manufacturing capabilities, and a growing focus on innovation, particularly in the electric vehicle (EV) sector.   Below is an overview of automotive parts production in China, key players, and trends shaping the industry.

 

Key Automotive Parts Produced in China

China manufactures a wide range of automotive components, including:

 

1.   Engine Components

Cylinder heads, pistons, crankshafts, and camshafts.

Turbochargers and fuel injection systems.

 

2.   Transmission and Drivetrain Parts

Gearboxes, clutches, and drive shafts.

Differential systems and axles.

 

3.   Electrical and Electronic Components

Sensors, control units, and wiring harnesses.

Infotainment systems and displays.

 

4.   Chassis and Suspension Parts

Shock absorbers, springs, and steering systems.

 Brake systems (discs, pads, and calipers).

 

5.   Body and Interior Parts

Sheet metal components, bumpers, and doors.

 Seats, dashboards, and trim panels.

 

6.   Lighting Systems

LED headlights, taillights, and interior lighting.

 

7.   EV-Specific Components

Battery packs, battery management systems (BMS), and electric motors.

 Charging ports, inverters, and power electronics.

Advantages of China’s Automotive Parts Industry

1.   Cost Efficiency: Lower labor and production costs compared to many other countries.

2.   Scale and Capacity: Massive production capacity to meet both domestic and global demand.

3.   Supply Chain Integration: A well-developed supply chain with access to raw materials and components.

4.   Government Support: Strong government backing for the automotive industry, particularly for EVs and new energy vehicles (NEVs).

5.   Technological Advancements: Increasing investment in R&D, particularly in EV and autonomous driving technologies.

Trends Shaping the Industry

1.   Electric Vehicle (EV) Boom

China is the world’s largest EV market, driving demand for EV-specific components like batteries, motors, and power electronics.

The government’s push for NEVs (New Energy Vehicles) has accelerated innovation and production.

 

2.   Localization of Supply Chains

International automakers are increasingly sourcing parts locally to reduce costs and comply with Chinese regulations.

Domestic suppliers are expanding their capabilities to meet global standards.

 

3.   Smart and Connected Vehicles

Growing demand for advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS), sensors, and connectivity solutions.

Chinese companies are investing heavily in autonomous driving technologies.

 

4.   Sustainability and Green Manufacturing

Emphasis on reducing emissions and adopting eco-friendly production methods.

Increasing use of lightweight materials like aluminum and advanced plastics to improve fuel efficiency.

 

5.   Digitalization and Industry 4.0

Adoption of smart manufacturing technologies, such as AI, IoT, and robotics, to improve efficiency and quality.

Digital platforms for supply chain management and production optimization.

 

6.   Export Growth

Chinese auto parts suppliers are expanding their presence in international markets, particularly in Southeast Asia, Europe, and North Americ

injection moulding sink mark

 In plastic injection molding, a sink mark is a surface defect that appears as a depression, dimple, or dent on the surface of a molded part. It typically occurs in thicker sections of the part or near features like ribs, bosses, or other areas where there is a significant variation in wall thickness. Sink marks are caused by uneven cooling and shrinkage of the plastic material during the molding process.

 

Causes of Sink Marks

1. Material Shrinkage:
As the molten plastic cools and solidifies, it shrinks. If the outer surface cools and hardens faster than the inner material, the inner material continues to shrink, pulling the surface inward and creating a sink mark.

2. Insufficient Packing Pressure or Time:
During the holding/packing phase, additional material is pushed into the mold to compensate for shrinkage. If the packing pressure or time is too low, the material shrinks excessively, leading to sink marks.

3. Thick Sections:
hicker areas of the part cool more slowly, increasing the likelihood of shrinkage and sink marks.

4. High Melt Temperature:
Higher melt temperatures can increase the material's shrinkage as it cools, contributing to sink marks.

5. Improper Gate Location or Size:
If the gate (the entry point of molten plastic into the mold) is too small or poorly located, it may restrict material flow, preventing adequate packing and causing sink marks.

6. Material Properties:
Some materials, especially semi-crystalline plastics (e.g., polypropylene, nylon), have higher shrinkage rates and are more prone to sink marks.

 

How to Identify Sink Marks

Sink marks are visible as shallow depressions on the surface of the part.

They are most common in areas with thicker walls or near structural features like ribs, bosses, or mounting points.

 

How to Prevent Sink Marks

1. Optimize Part Design:
Maintain uniform wall thickness throughout the part.
Use ribs or coring to reduce material volume in thick sections.

2. Adjust Process Parameters:
Increase holding/packing pressure and time to ensure adequate material packing.
Optimize cooling time to allow uniform cooling of the part.
Reduce melt temperature to minimize shrinkage.

3. Improve Mold Design:
Position gates near thick sections to ensure proper material flow and packing.
Optimize cooling channels to ensure even cooling, especially in thick areas.

4. Select Appropriate Materials:
Use materials with lower shrinkage rates, such as amorphous plastics (e.g., ABS, PC).
For crystalline plastics, consider using filled or reinforced materials to reduce shrinkage.

 

Corrective Actions for Existing Sink Marks
Increase holding pressure and time.
Reduce melt temperature.
Extend cooling time.
Modify part design to reduce wall thickness or add coring.
Adjust gate size or location.

 

By addressing these factors, sink marks can be minimized or eliminated, resulting in higher-quality injection-molded parts.

plastic injection molding sink mark

 

The reasons for sink mark in plastic products are as follows:

Reasons for injection molding sink mark

Sink marks in injection molding are common defects that occur when the surface of a molded part shrinks and creates a depression or dimple. This typically happens because the inner part of the material cools and shrinks faster than the outer surface, pulling the surface inward. Sink marks are most noticeable on thicker sections of the part or near ribs, bosses, or other features that create variations in wall thickness.

Causes of Sink Marks:

1. Insufficient Cooling Time:

• If the cooling time is too short, the outer surface solidifies while the inner material is still cooling and shrinking, causing sink marks.

1. Inadequate Holding Pressure or Time:

• Holding pressure helps pack additional material into the mold to compensate for shrinkage. If the pressure or time is insufficient, the material shrinks excessively, leading to sink marks.

1. Excessive Wall Thickness:

• Thicker sections cool more slowly, increasing the likelihood of shrinkage and sink marks.

1. High Material Shrinkage Rate:

• Some materials, such as semi-crystalline plastics (e.g., polypropylene or nylon), have higher shrinkage rates, making them more prone to sink marks.

1. Improper Gate Location or Size:

• If the gate is too small or poorly located, it can restrict the flow of material, preventing adequate packing and leading to sink marks.

1. High Melt Temperature:

• Excessive melt temperature can increase material shrinkage as it cools, contributing to sink marks.

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How to Prevent Sink Marks:

1. Optimize Wall Thickness:

• Design parts with uniform wall thickness to ensure even cooling. If thick sections are unavoidable, use coring or ribbing to reduce material volume.

1. Increase Holding Pressure and Time:

• Apply sufficient holding pressure and extend the holding time to pack more material into the mold and compensate for shrinkage.

1. Adjust Cooling Time:

• Ensure adequate cooling time to allow the entire part to solidify uniformly.

1. Use Low-Shrinkage Materials:

• Select materials with lower shrinkage rates, such as amorphous plastics (e.g., ABS, PC) or filled resins.

1. Optimize Gate Design:

• Use larger gates or position them near thicker sections to ensure proper material flow and packing.

1. Control Melt Temperature:

• Avoid excessively high melt temperatures to minimize shrinkage.

1. Add Mold Features:

• Incorporate mold features like gas vents or cooling channels to improve cooling efficiency and reduce shrinkage.

---

Corrective Actions for Existing Sink Marks:

• Increase holding pressure and time.
• Reduce melt temperature.
• Extend cooling time.
• Modify part design to reduce wall thickness or add coring.
• Adjust gate size or location.

By addressing these factors, you can minimize or eliminate sink marks and improve the quality of injection-molded parts.

Solving Sink Marks in Injection Molding

 Solving Sink Marks in Injection Molding requires addressing multiple aspects, including material selection, process optimization, mold design, and product design. Below are some specific solutions:

 

1. Optimize Product Design

Uniform Wall Thickness: Ensure the product has uniform wall thickness to avoid localized thick areas. If thick walls are unavoidable, use coring or ribs to reduce material accumulation.
Transition Design: Use gradual transitions between thick and thin sections to avoid sudden changes in thickness.
Rib Design: The thickness of ribs should be 50%-60% of the main wall thickness to minimize sink marks.

 

 2. Adjust Injection Molding Process

Increase Holding Pressure:
Increasing holding pressure can compensate for material shrinkage during cooling, reducing sink marks.
Note: Excessive holding pressure may cause flash or increase internal stress.
Extend Holding Time:
Ensure the holding time is sufficient to allow adequate material packing during cooling.
Optimize Cooling Time:
Extend cooling time to allow uniform cooling of the product, reducing differential shrinkage.
Lower Melt Temperature:
Reduce the melt temperature appropriately to minimize material shrinkage.
Adjust Injection Speed**:
Increasing injection speed can improve mold filling, but avoid excessive speed to prevent other defects (e.g., flow marks or burning).

 

 3. Optimize Mold Design

Gate Design:
Position gates near thick sections to ensure adequate material filling and packing.
Increase gate size or number to improve material flow and packing.
Cooling System:
Optimize cooling channel design to ensure thick sections are adequately cooled.
Improve cooling efficiency in thick areas to avoid significant temperature differences between inner and outer regions.
Venting Design:
Ensure proper mold venting to avoid air traps that can cause insufficient filling or sink marks.

 

 4. Material Selection

Choose Low-Shrinkage Materials:
Use materials with low shrinkage rates (e.g., amorphous plastics like ABS, PC).
For crystalline plastics (e.g., PP, PA), additives like glass fibers can be used to reduce shrinkage.
Dry the Material:
Ensure the material is thoroughly dried to avoid shrinkage caused by moisture evaporation.

 

 5. Post-Processing

Mold Surface Treatment:
Add textures or sandblasting to the mold surface to mask minor sink marks.
Product Post-Processing:
For products with existing sink marks, heating or surface treatments (e.g., painting) can improve appearance.

 

 6. Simulation Analysis

Use mold flow analysis software (e.g., Moldflow) to simulate the injection molding process, predict the location and severity of sink marks, and optimize process parameters and mold design.

 

Summary

Solving sink marks requires a comprehensive approach, including product design, mold design, injection molding process, and material selection. By optimizing wall thickness, adjusting holding pressure and cooling time, and improving gate design, sink marks can be effectively reduced or eliminated. If the issue persists, further optimization of process parameters can be achieved through mold flow analysis.

Why China mold more and more foreign customers have been recognized

 

Why China mold more and more foreign customers have been recognized

You may hear from someone that plastic injection moulds from China are of low quality. But still, many companies are buying injection molds from China. Some of them with big volume demands even set their own sourcing office in China. Are those companies silly? No. Mold making. The answer is China injection mold makers can manufacture high-quality molds. As good as American and European companies with competitive lower prices. This is why the plastic injection mold makers outside China lost their jobs to the Chinese.

 

Chinese sales are good at language communication and technology

In China, now more and more plastic injection mold makers hire technical sales. Who are good at technique and English communication. As we all know, the technique requirement is the most important thing for an injection mold making project. And now many Chinese mold salesmen are good at CAD drawing, materials choosing, and mold-making process. So they can communicate with the partner engineers very well. To make a new plastic injection mold. The 3D drawing is the first thing and then analyzes how to make the mold (size, structure, material, cut down the cost, and so on). So the key point is how to make the suppliers' engineers and your companies' requirements connection.

Just like our factory, we have cooperated with German and United Kingdom companies for five years. We work well if you have a new custom mold making project next time. You can send your drawing to us to have a test.

We are a unique hybrid solution for dealing with American companies but getting better Chinese prices. We will be glad to review your specifications. And share them with our plastic injection mold makers as well for their input. We work on a cost-plus basis. We will give a very honest quotation to build what exactly you are expecting. And We have a reputation for making only top quality molds and we stand behind our work. We think you will really like working with our company. We are also glad to give you the references of our many US customers that can tell you the kind of services we can offer.

[caption id="attachment_3974" align="alignnone" width="605"] China mold[/caption]

Were you able to find a good source for plastic injection molds?

You may find out there are very few Chinese manufacturers that could satisfy your company's needs. We are a Chinese company with our own tooling factory in Shanghai China. Our company builds very precise and high-quality plastic injection molds exclusively for demanding the US, Canada, UK, Germany, Italy, and more companies. We have excellent equipment including mirror EDM, etc. Our mold engineers are good at English and mold technologies. So our company is easy to communicate with. Feel free to let us know if you are finding a plastic injection mold maker in China.

After 30 years of development, mold manufacturing becomes a mutual industrial in China

There is a well-developed industrial chain. Many well-trained mold makers, and well-educated businesses developing. And project management employees. Despite they are paid 2/3 less than in the US. They make the first-class mold as your mold maker did in the US.

Injection molding is a manufacturing process for producing plastic injection molds from both thermoplastic and thermosetting plastic materials. Material is fed into a heated barrel, and mixed. And forced into a mold cavity by a reciprocating screw or a ram injector. Where the injection molded part cools and hardens to the configuration of the mold cavity. After a part is designed, usually by an industrial designer or an engineer. Molds are then manufactured by an injection mold company. where it is assigned to a mold maker (or toolmaker).

Injection molding is widely used for manufacturing a variety of parts

Injection molds are usually constructed using either steel or aluminum. Precision-machined to form the features of the desired parts. Injection molding is widely used for manufacturing a variety of parts. From the smallest component to the entire body panels of cars. Injection molding is the most common method of production. With some commonly made injection molded items including computer components to outdoor furniture.

Most polymers may be used for molds. Including all thermoplastics, some thermosets, and some elastomers. There are tens of thousands of different materials available for injection molds. That number is increasing every year. The materials can be mixed with alloys or blends of previously developed materials. This allows product designers to choose from a vast selection of materials. So they can choose exactly the right properties for the injection molded part or parts they need. Mold materials are chosen based on strength. And the function is required for the final part and each material has different parameters for molding that must be considered. Common polymers like Epoxy and phenolic are examples of thermosetting plastics while nylon, polyethylene, and polystyrene are thermoplastic.