Factors To Consider When Designing Over-molded Plastic Parts
Over-molding can be as simple as providing a soft surface over a structural component or it can encapsulate multiple functional parts into one unified component. For example, encapsulating electronic components in a plastic part can provide shock absorption and environmental protection required for the device to survive the application. We at jobst incorporate have experience with over-molding. We can help you with your design, advising you on the requirements to be successful
Dr. David Raia, and Edwin Tam *1 lay out the factors to weigh when considering Over-molding.
- Material Characteristics
- Performance Requirements
- Processing Parameters
- Costs
A component or product may have to perform several functions. One or two may be primary and the balance secondary. What are the primary requirements of the product or component design? You must distinguish between primary requirements and secondary desires.
Secondary functional enhancements may not be needed and the customer may not he willing to pay for them. Does the product or component require over-molding two materials or will a simpler single component design address the customer's needs? If the decision is for multi-component molded parts because it provides superior tactile performance or aesthetics that proper planning is required for successful over-molding.
*1 Dr. David Raia, Technical Support Engineering & Edwin Tam, VP, Engineered Elastomers, Consultants Corner March 2001 TPE News - Society of Plastics Engineers