Two-component injection moulding is a process used in injection moulding to produce components with different material properties or colours. It involves joining two different plastics together in a single injection moulding process.
The process of two-component injection moulding begins with the preparation of the two plastic components. Each component is kept in separate containers and heated to the required temperatures before the injection moulding process. The plastics can be either thermoplastic or elastomeric.
The actual injection moulding machine consists of two injection units that operate independently of each other. Each unit has its own screw drive that melts the plastic and injects it into the mould. The injection units are arranged so that they fill the injection mould simultaneously.
In the injection moulding process, the first plastic component is first injected into the mould. Then the second component is injected directly onto the first component. The close timing and precise control allow the two plastics to fuse together and form a strong bond.
The mould into which the plastics are injected consists of two halves that fit together perfectly. It has channels and cavities that allow the plastics to be injected and define the desired shape of the end product. These moulds are manufactured in our own tool shop.
Two-component injection moulding offers several advantages. It enables the production of components with different colours, surface structures or degrees of hardness. The direct connection of the two plastic components creates a strong and permanent bond without additional adhesives or welds. This increases the stability and quality of the product.
Applications of two-component injection moulding can be found in various industries. For example, the process is used in the automotive industry to produce dashboards with soft touch elements. In medical technology, syringes can be produced with a rubberised grip surface for a better hold. In the power tool industry, grip parts are provided with a soft component for more comfort.
Overall, two-component injection moulding enables the production of high-quality plastic components with a wide range of properties. The process opens up new design possibilities and contributes to efficiency and quality in plastics processing.
