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Injection molding is a highly efficient manufacturing process widely used to produce plastic parts. Despite its efficiency, the process involves several safety hazards that operators and supervisors must understand and manage carefully. The use of flammable materials, exposure to hot surfaces, handling molten plastic, and the presence of moving machine parts create risks that can lead to burns, electrical shocks, hearing loss, eye injuries, and other accidents. To protect wor

Injection molding remains one of the most efficient ways to produce large volumes of parts with consistent quality. Yet, the success of this process depends heavily on the choice of mold material. Selecting the right mold material affects not only the immediate production cost but also the long-term durability and performance of the parts. This article compares steel and aluminum molds, highlighting their strengths and weaknesses to help you decide which material fits your pr

Sustainability has become a key driver in manufacturing, and injection molding is no exception. In 2022, the industry made significant strides toward greener practices by adopting recycled materials, bioplastics, and waste-reducing methods. These changes not only help protect the environment but also meet the growing demand from consumers who care about the planet. This post explores how eco-friendly standards are reshaping injection molding, highlighting recycled materials,

The plastic injection molding industry faces a complex landscape in 2023 shaped by global economic trends, rising raw material costs, labor market shifts, and evolving trade policies. These factors influence production costs, demand, and the overall direction of the market. Understanding these challenges and opportunities is essential for manufacturers, suppliers, and stakeholders aiming to adapt and thrive this year. Plastic injection molding machine producing a plastic part

Have you ever wondered how food containers or syringes can be made without a single speck of dust? This level of cleanliness is impossible without a cleanroom. Cleanrooms are highly controlled environments designed to limit airborne contaminants. Instead of letting particles float freely, every aspect is monitored and controlled to meet strict cleanliness and precision standards. This control is essential for manufacturing products that come into contact with the human body o

In plastic injection molding, precision and consistency are critical. One small but powerful tool that often goes unnoticed is the mold release agent. For over 60 years, manufacturers have relied on these agents to keep production running smoothly, reduce scrap rates, and extend the life of expensive molds. Understanding how mold release agents work and choosing the right one can make a significant difference in your manufacturing process. Applying mold release agent to injec

Have you ever wondered how food containers or syringes are made without a single speck of dust? This level of cleanliness is impossible without a cleanroom. Cleanrooms are highly controlled environments designed to limit airborne contaminants. Instead of allowing particles to float freely, every aspect of the space is monitored and controlled to meet strict cleanliness and precision standards. Cleanrooms play a crucial role in manufacturing products that come into direct cont

When it comes to plastic molding, small details can make a big difference. One of those details is the grease used on ejector pins. Choosing the right grease can prevent costly downtime, reduce wear, and improve the overall efficiency of the molding process. At the 2023 Plastics Technology Expo in Rosemont, IL, Slide Products shared insights on this topic during an interview with MoldMaking Technology magazine. This post highlights key points from that conversation, focusing

Building strong business relationships is often seen as a means to an end: closing deals, expanding networks, or securing future projects. But sometimes, these connections grow into something far more valuable—true friendships that enrich both personal and professional lives. Over the years, Slide’s team has experienced this transformation firsthand. We want to share some real stories that show how business partnerships can evolve into lasting bonds. A serene lake house dock

Ejector pins, plates, and other moving components in molds operate under extremely tight tolerances. These parts require precise lubrication to function smoothly and maintain mold efficiency. Choosing the right grease for ejector pins is not just a matter of convenience; it directly impacts mold longevity, part quality, and production costs. Using the wrong grease can cause contamination, excessive wear, and downtime, which can be costly for manufacturers. This post explores

Plastic injection molding stands out as one of the most adaptable manufacturing processes available today. Its ability to work with a wide range of resins and compounds allows manufacturers to create products that meet diverse needs across many industries. The choice of material plays a crucial role in determining the final product’s performance, cost, and quality. This article explores some of the most commonly used materials in plastic injection molding, highlighting their

June is National Safety Month, a timely reminder to focus on workplace safety across all industries. In high-risk environments like plastic injection molding, safety is not just a priority but a necessity. The process involves powerful machines, high temperatures, and complex materials, all of which pose significant risks to workers. By identifying hazards and applying proactive safety measures, companies can protect employees and maintain smooth, efficient operations. Safety

In plastic injection molding, precision and consistency are crucial. One small but powerful tool that often goes unnoticed is the mold release agent. For over 60 years, manufacturers have relied on these agents to keep production running smoothly, reduce scrap rates, and protect expensive molds. Understanding how mold release agents work and choosing the right one can make a significant difference in your manufacturing process. Plastic injection mold showing mold release agen

When we think about inventions that shape our daily lives, airplanes, computers, and cars often come to mind. Yet, the materials and manufacturing methods behind these creations rarely get the attention they deserve. Among these materials, plastic stands out as a cornerstone of modern engineering. Its versatility, affordability, and rapid production capabilities have transformed industries worldwide. The development of injection molding techniques further expanded plastic’s p

In 1962, Tike Miller set out to find a replacement piece for his nativity set. What he discovered instead was a groundbreaking invention that would captivate children and adults alike for decades. This invention, the Mold-A-Rama vending machine, transformed molten plastic into miniature souvenirs right before the eyes of eager onlookers. The machine’s unique blend of entertainment and manufacturing education made it a beloved fixture in museums, zoos, and attractions across t

Injection molding is one of the most efficient ways to produce large volumes of repeatable parts. Yet, achieving consistent quality requires careful attention at every stage of the process. Without proactive risk management, defects can slip through, leading to poor product appearance, reduced part strength, and costly rework or scrap. Understanding common defects, their causes, and how to prevent them helps manufacturers maintain high standards and avoid financial losses. Be

Injection molding has long been a cornerstone of manufacturing, shaping countless products we use daily. This year, the industry has taken a significant leap forward by integrating advanced automation with Artificial Intelligence (AI) and embracing sustainable materials and methods. These changes are not only improving production efficiency but also reshaping how manufacturers approach environmental responsibility and workforce skills. This post explores how AI-driven automat

Injection molding tools face constant wear and tear, especially around ejector pins. These small but critical components often suffer from galling, seizing, and pitting if not properly maintained. The consequences include costly downtime, damaged machinery, and defective parts. The key to avoiding these issues lies in the right lubrication strategy. Using the correct grease can extend tool life, reduce maintenance time, and improve overall production quality. Super Grease fro

Advanced materials are reshaping manufacturing by offering new possibilities for strength, durability, and functionality. As industries face growing demands for lighter, stronger, and more sustainable products, the use of high-performance polymers, recycled materials, and composite reinforcements is becoming essential. These materials enable manufacturers to meet strict performance standards while reducing environmental impact and production costs. This post explores key adva

When we think about inventions that shape our world, airplanes, computers, and cars often come to mind. Yet, the materials and manufacturing methods behind these creations rarely get the spotlight they deserve. Among these materials, plastic stands out as a cornerstone of modern engineering. It offers a unique combination of affordability, speed, and quality that has transformed manufacturing across industries. Plastic’s rise is closely tied to the development of injection mo