PVC is a widely used industrial thermoplastic used to create a variety of plastic goods including pipes, siding, and more. Its excellent strength and good weatherability make it suitable for many projects. As PVC is in large demand, finding a knowledgeable manufacturer to guide you through PVC injection mold processing is important.
What is PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride)?
Polyvinyl chloride or PVC is a popular thermoplastic polymer. It is white and can be brittle until additional plasticizers are added. PVC was first used commercially by B.F. Goodrich Company during the 1920s. It can be used in two different forms, as a rigid polymer or as a flexible plastic. Plasticized PVC can bend. Examples of flexible PVC include flooring for homes, insulation on electrical wires, and oftentimes as a replacement for rubber. The rigid form of PVC is most commonly used for construction such as water distribution pipes for plumbing, business machine housings, or vinyl siding on buildings.
Characteristics of PVC
PVC plastic is budget-friendly, resistant to environmental degradation, chemicals, and alkalis, and has excellent tensile strength and hardness. Like other thermoplastics, it can be heated into a moldable state, cooled, and then reheated again without degradation. Since PVC can be liquified, it can easily be injection molded. PVC is easy to recycle. Since PVC has a high density and great strength, it has become widely used. Like other plastics, it has long-lasting characteristics making it the ideal choice for industrial applications.
PVC Injection Molding Processing
The PVC plastic begins as a pellet which is melted into a moldable state. The optimum PVC molding temperature is generally 345◦F and 375F. It is very important to process PVC at the correct melt temperature to avoid severe problems from decomposition. Once the material has reached the melting temperature, it is then injected into the cavity of a two-part mold where it will harden. The PVC will solidify almost as soon as the mold has been filled. The part then cools to the shape of the mold. Once it has fully cooled, the two sides of the mold open to eject the part, where it is caught by a bin. The “A” and “B” parts of the mold then reset to start the process over again. Shrinkage in PVC is between one to two percent but can vary based on hardness, holding time, melt temperature, mold temperature, and type of additives used. ICOMold are experienced PVC injection molders and possess the speed and equipment for a seamless process.
By choosing PVC injection molding, you will be able to use your mold again and again, which results in a high production output rate. This is highly cost-effective and efficient than other manufacturing methods. Injection molding allows you to manufacture parts with greater detail and the ability to combine multiple assembly steps into one process.
Advantages of Injection Molding Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC)
There are many benefits to using PVC for an injection molding project. Some of the top advantages of using PVC include:
- Inexpensive
- Widely available
- High density
- Strength
- Hardness
- Excellent dimensional stability
- Great weatherability
- Chemical resistance
- Abrasion resistance
- High production rates
- Minimal finishing
- High material stability
- High durability
- Recyclable
- Lightweight
- Good color retention
Injection Molding PVC Specifications
PVC is a thermoset material. It will become liquified at its melting point which ranges between 212F to 500F, depending on any additives used. PVC can be melted for injection molding purposes, cooled and then heated again without degredation. Different additives may be used including lubricants, processing aids, pigments, stabilizers, impact modifiers and fillers. Properties of PVC:
- Melting temperature: 320-428◦F
- Mold temperature: 68-158◦F
- Injection speed: slow to avoid degredation
- Tensile strength: 6,500 psi
- Packing pressure: up to 100MPa
- Drying temperature 75-90◦F
- Low shrinkage: 0.002 – 0.006 mm/mm or 0.2 – 0.6%
Injection Molding Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) Process
PVC begins in pellet or powder form. These resign pellets are fed down a barrel and heated. A plasticizer may be added to improve fluidity, a stabilizer to address thermal stability and lubricant so that the PVC part can easily be released from the mold. Fillers and colorants may also be added. The liquified PVC is injected into a custom mold which has two sides. Once the PVC has cooled, the custom part has been formed. The part is dropped from the mold and then moved into post-processing for any finishing touches.
Applications of Injection Molding PVC
PVC is a widely used material that can be applied for use in multiple industries. Dashboards, bottle caps and packaging have all been made using PVC. Some common products made from PVC using the injection molding process include:
- Automotive parts
- Packaging
- Bottle caps
- Wire spools
- Pocket combs
- Plumbing
- Parts for construction
- Window handles
Get a Quote on Injection Molding PVC Today
At ICOMold, we have used PVC for a wide variety of applications. We are ready to work with you on the design and production of your custom PVC part. Get an instant quote today.
ICOMold has the team and process in place to meet the needs of your PVC project. Our fast and dependable service, low prices, quick quotes, and online project management systems provide a seamless customer experience. Your production injection mold comes with a lifetime guarantee. Whether your project demands a low or high volume, we are ready to work with you. Please feel contact us at (419) 867-3900 or email sales@icomold.com.