Highly regarded for its versatility and efficiency, custom plastic injection molding is one of the most widely used manufacturing methods across a diverse range of industries. The method’s continually increasing popularity stems from its ability to mass produce nearly identical parts quickly and cost-effectively without sacrificing
quality.

The plastic injection molding process inherently provides many advantages, including repeatability, efficiency, the ability to produce complex shapes, and minimal waste production. The process begins with mold creation — the most cost-prohibitive step in this manufacturing method. However, the cost savings associated with mass production counteract the upfront tooling costs. Once the mold is created, raw plastic materials are melted and injected into the mold cavity. The molten plastic is then left to cool into its final form.

Since the final component takes the shape of the mold, there is little to no waste produced and any scrap can be recycled back into production. For these reasons, and many more, industries around the world have adopted plastic injection molding to produce large volumes of high-quality parts. Below we will dive into how certain industries utilize this production method.

Material Handling

Material handling is an important aspect of virtually every industry. Products produced in the material handling industry facilitate the safe and easy transportation of materials and products throughout warehouses, manufacturing
facilities, distribution centers, and more.

High-volume plastic injection molding allows for the creation of durable, precise material handling equipment that is easy to clean, including:

• Trays
• Totes
• Bins
• Pallets
• Shelving
• And more

Food and Beverage

To support consumer health and safety, products and equipment used in food and beverage production must comply with stringent standards set forth by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Plastic injection molding easily facilitates compliance with these standards with the use of non-toxic, food-grade plastic materials that prevent cross-contamination. Manufacturers use plastic injection molding to produce a wide range of products and equipment for the food and beverage industry, including:

• Processing equipment
• Beverage filtering components
• Food and beverage containers
• Conveyor systems

Consumer Products

Many of the products that we use every day are made possible by plastic injection molding. One of the major benefits that plastic injection molding lends to consumer products is a high level of design flexibility. Manufacturers of consumer goods can achieve intricate designs that appeal to consumers while maintaining the degree of durability and easy maintenance consumers expect. From kitchen appliances to automotive components, the following are examples of consumer products made by plastic injection molding:

• Furniture
• Household fixtures
• Tools
• Car headlights
• Fridge and dishwasher components

Lawn and Garden

Traditionally, lawn and garden equipment has been made of metal and wood —both of which have certain disadvantages such as higher cost and susceptibility to weathering and/or corrosion. Due to their durability, injection-molded plastic components are an excellent material alternative for lawn and garden products. Due to the nature of these products, it is essential that they be able to withstand the elements of their environment. Using plastic injection molding, manufacturers can create lawn and garden equipment with corrosion-, humidity-, and UV-resistant properties, resulting in long-lasting equipment at affordable prices. Common lawn and garden components made with plastic injection molding include:

• Irrigation systems
• Drainage systems for overflow irrigation
• Lawn mower parts
• Tools

Building and Construction

Plastic injection molding is ideal for creating parts for the building and construction industry due to its ability to create strong, durable, lightweight support components. Additionally, injection-molded parts offer exceptional thermal insulation which allows for the construction of more environmentally sustainable structures. Building
and construction applications for plastic injection molding include:

• Air handling and flow control louvers
• Entire custom plumbing systems
• Plumbing drain pipe fittings
• Trench drains
• Construction tools
• Window and door hardware

Injection-molded Plastic Parts From Port Erie Plastics

Port Erie Plastics has been a trusted supplier of custom plastic injection molding services since 1953. With an arsenal of 90 machines and extensive experience molding all types of thermoplastic materials, we can accommodate projects of any size and difficulty. Backed by an ISO-9000-compliant quality assurance department with an in-house inspection lab, We guarantee that customers will find that Port Erie offers one of the best value propositions in the industry. To support our commitment to quality, we also offer a full warranty for molds made by Port Erie.

To learn more about our custom plastic injection molding services and how they can benefit your industry, check out our plastic injection molding page. You can also request a quote or contact us to get started on your next project.