November 2, 2023•
Injection Mold Cost•
Murray Plastics Team
In today's competitive market, custom parts play a crucial role in numerous industries, from automotive and electronics to consumer goods. When it comes to manufacturing these parts, injection molding is a widely used process due to its efficiency and versatility. However, understanding the cost implications and timelines involved in obtaining custom parts from an injection molding company is vital for businesses.
Several factors influence the cost of custom parts produced through injection molding. These include design complexity, material selection, mold construction, production quantity, and more. Let's explore two case studies that highlight the cost and timeline considerations for different types of parts.
Case Study 1: Simple Part with Commodity Resin
For our first case study, let's consider a straightforward part, such as a plastic cap for a bottle. This part has a relatively simple design, utilizing a commodity resin like polyethylene. Here's a breakdown of the cost and timeline estimates for producing 1,000, 15,000, and 100,000 parts:
The design phase typically takes one to two weeks, depending on the complexity of the part. Prototyping may require an additional week.The construction of the mold can take approximately three to four weeks, considering the simplicity of the part. The initial molding run, after the mold is completed, can be accomplished in one to two weeks. Once the mold is in production, subsequent runs for 1,000 parts can be completed within a week.
- Cost Estimate for 1,000 parts: $2,000 to $4,000
- Cost Estimate for 15,000 parts: $20,000 to $35,000
- Cost Estimate for 100,000 parts: $100,000 to $200,000
Case Study 2: Complex Part with Engineered Resin
Now, let's consider a highly intricate part, such as a specialized automotive component made from an engineered resin like polycarbonate. The complexity of this part requires more time and expertise during the design, mold construction, and production processes:
Due to the complexity, the design phase for such a part can take four to six weeks, including prototyping.Constructing a mold for a complex part can take six to eight weeks, considering the intricate details and advanced resin requirements.The initial molding run may take two to three weeks, as additional care is needed to ensure the part meets the desired specifications.
- Cost Estimate for 1,000 parts: $10,000 to $15,000
- Cost Estimate for 15,000 parts: $100,000 to $150,000
- Cost Estimate for 100,000 parts: $500,000 to $750,000
The cost of buying custom parts from an injection molding company varies depending on various factors such as design complexity, material selection, mold construction, and production quantity. As illustrated by the case studies, simpler parts made from commodity resins generally incur lower costs and shorter timelines, while complex parts made from engineered resins demand higher investments of time and money.
When planning to obtain custom parts, businesses should carefully consider the design requirements, material characteristics, and production quantities to estimate the costs accurately. Consulting with an experienced injection molding company can provide valuable insights and assistance in optimizing the part design, material selection, and production process.
Ultimately, by understanding the cost implications and timelines involved in obtaining custom parts, businesses can make informed decisions, align their budgets, and ensure a successful partnership with an injection molding company for their specific needs.
Last modified: January 9, 2024
