What is CNC Plastic Molding?
To understand what CNC Plastic Molding is you first need to know what CNC stands for, what injection molding is, and why CNC Plastic Molding is used.
The abbreviation CNC stands for Computer Numerical Control, especially referring to instructions used to control a mechanical device like a drill or cutter. CNC directs the tool to cut concise components by removing specific material.
The CNC machine cuts the mold and then plastic is injected. CNC Plastic Molding can also be called plastic injection molding. The mold is cut by a CNC drill and can be made up of any metal such as steel or aluminum. During the process of plastic injection molding, the plastic is heated till it melts, then is injected under pressure into a mold. The molten form is then allowed to cool down and set. When the plastic cools, it is taken out of the mold and the process is repeated.
It is very easy to change certain characteristics of the plastic like hardness and quality. The hardness of the final product depends on the pressure of the injection of the plastic into the mold. A good quality product depends on the thickness of the mold and the temperature for melting and cooling of the plastic.
An advantage to using CNC Plastic Molding is that it is very cost effective and fast. Also, this process rules out any undesired sharp edges and produces smooth and finished products that require no further finishing.