Plastic injection in the automotive industry
As we mentioned in our post about plastic injection in San Antonio, this process is used to manufacture many products we usually use. However, many people still do not know about this technique.
That is why, week after week, Precision Group brings articles for you to know the impact of this industry and all the benefits you can find for your company.
Today is not an exception because, in this post, we will share more information about plastic injection in the automotive industry. If you want to know more about it, continue reading. You will find useful information.
What is plastic resin injection molding?
If it is your first time on our blog, we will start by telling you a little more about what plastic injection molding is.
Plastic injection molding is an engineering technique that consists of manufacturing parts from molds in which plastic resins are administered under pressure.
This process allows plastic products and pieces to be developed in mass because a plastic injection mold is manufactured according to the number of pieces the client requires.
Plastic injection for the automotive industry
Now let us talk about the role of plastic injection in the automotive industry; as we know, vehicles integrate plastic elements within their structure and components but have you wondered how these are manufactured and what those parts are?
It is estimated that 20% of the parts and elements of a car are made of plastic, but this does not mean that they are fragile because the main structure is mainly made of metal. However, plastic pieces are integrated into vehicles to reduce weight and achieve better performance.
Likewise, the plastic injection molds used for the automotive industry will not be the same for household appliances. Those used for vehicles need a higher precision because these pieces are usually assembled and cannot be modified to fulfill their function.
Hereafter we are going to share which are some car pieces manufactured with plastic injection in San Antonio.
1.- External components
Let us begin by mentioning those external parts manufactured with plastic. We must clarify that not so many plastic components are usually found in this part of the car. However, automobile manufacturers integrated them because they are economical and light.
Among the external plastic components of a vehicle, we can find the following ones:
- Splashback
- Front and rear bumpers
- Grilles
- Mudguards
- Headlight moldings
- Windshield wipers
- Tires
- Hub caps
2.- Interior components
On the other hand, most of the plastic parts of a car are found inside because they are the accessories that are designed for the driver’s use, and they are the following ones
- Steering wheel
- Seat belts
- Dashboard
- Part of the door trim
- Glove box
- Handlebars
- Elements of the gearshift lever
- Handbrake
Plastic resins used in the automotive industry
Now we are going to talk about those polymers that are usually used to manufacture automotive components and their characteristics, so that you can become more familiar with your vehicle.
1.- Thermoplastics
Thermoplastic is one of the most widespread polymers used in the automotive industry due to its qualities. It is very resistant; it can resist high temperatures.
For example, when it is in high temperatures, it becomes softer; on the other hand, it becomes solid at low temperatures, that is why it is one of the most resistant plastics.
Experts in the automotive industry use it in bumpers, mirror guards, grilles, liners and spoilers.
2.- Thermosets
Thermosets are the polymers that consolidate linear chains with their molecules because they are highly resistant and durable.
Unlike thermoplastics, thermosets will not modify their shape even when they are at different temperatures, receive pressure, or in the presence of certain chemicals. However, automobile manufacturers cannot weld plastic pieces made with this type of plastic; they assemble them to the vehicle to fit correctly. Usually, it is in bumpers, ailerons, grills, and heel protectors, among others.
3.- Elastomers
Finally, an elastomer is a type of plastic that is flexible but depending on the circumstances, it can modify its shape.
Due to this, it is not widely used in the automotive industry, however, it is integrated into the parts of a vehicle, especially in the manufacture of door rubbers and windshield wipers.
Now that you know more about plastic injection in the automotive industry, you can tell us your opinion about the post and if you liked it, share it on your social media and with people you know.
Do not forget to keep an eye on our blog to learn more about plastic injection in San Antonio. Besides this information, you can contact us to help with your plastic injection molding manufacturing.