Molding Capabilities – Precision Group

Mastering Plastic Contraction in Injection Molding: Precision Group’s Expert Approach

Introduction

In the realm of injection molding, precision is paramount. Every molded plastic part demands meticulous attention to detail to ensure it meets exacting standards. One of the critical challenges in this process is plastic contraction – the tendency of the material to shrink or contract after molding. Understanding and managing this phenomenon is where the expertise of companies like Precision Group shines.

Unraveling Plastic Contraction

Plastic contraction is an inherent characteristic of the molding process. When molten plastic is injected into a mold and cooled, it undergoes a phase change from liquid to solid. During this transition, the material contracts due to the cooling and rearrangement of molecular chains. This contraction can lead to dimensional inaccuracies if not managed effectively.

Factors Influencing Contraction

Precision Group acknowledges various factors influencing plastic contraction:

Material Properties: Different plastics exhibit different shrinkage rates based on their chemical composition. Understanding these properties is fundamental to managing contraction.
Mold Design: Precision in mold design is key. The team factors in anticipated shrinkage and compensates by designing molds slightly larger than the final desired dimensions.
Controlled Cooling: Managing cooling rates during the molding process can significantly impact contraction. Precision Group employs techniques to regulate cooling, preventing rapid or uneven solidification that may exacerbate shrinkage.
Optimized Processing Conditions: Parameters such as temperature, pressure, and injection speed are meticulously adjusted to minimize shrinkage and ensure consistency in the final product.

Precision Group’s Approach to Contraction Management

Precision Group has honed an approach that sets them apart in managing plastic contraction:

Beyond Contraction: Precision and Innovation

Advanced Simulation and Analysis: They employ cutting-edge mold flow analysis tools that simulate the molding process. This allows them to predict and compensate for shrinkage accurately.
Iterative Design Refinement: Their iterative design process involves constant refinement based on data from simulations and real-world molding trials. This meticulous approach ensures precise adjustments to mitigate contraction effects.
Expertise in Material Science: Their team’s deep understanding of material properties enables them to choose the right plastics for specific applications, considering shrinkage tendencies and other critical factors.
Quality Assurance Protocols: Rigorous quality checks at every stage of production ensure that parts meet stringent dimensional tolerances, even accounting for contraction.

Precision Group doesn’t just stop at managing contraction; they continuously innovate to push the boundaries of precision molding. Their commitment to research and development drives them to explore new materials, refine processes, and integrate emerging technologies to deliver unparalleled quality and accuracy.

Conclusion

Plastic contraction in injection molding is a challenge that demands finesse and expertise. Precision Group’s mastery in managing contraction through meticulous design, advanced analysis, and a relentless pursuit of perfection sets a benchmark in the industry. Their commitment to precision not only manages contraction but elevates the quality and reliability of every molded part they produce.

In the realm of injection molding, where precision is paramount, Precision Group stands as a testament to the fusion of art, science, and innovation.

Precision Group Tooling and Molding: Transforming Designs into Molding-Ready Parts

Introduction

In the realm of manufacturing, the journey from a brilliant design concept to a tangible, production-ready part can be fraught with challenges. One of the critical junctures in this process lies in translating intricate designs into molding-ready parts. This is where Precision Group Tooling and Molding steps in, wielding expertise honed by a specialized engineering team proficient in CAM/CAD design.

At Precision Group, the focus extends beyond mere manufacturing; it’s about orchestrating a symphony of precision, innovation, and seamless execution to transform design dreams into tangible realities. Often, designs arrive without considering the intricate necessities and constraints imposed by the molding process. This is where the magic happens – the team’s proficiency in CAM/CAD design becomes the pivot around which design aspirations and molding standards harmoniously converge

Bridging Design Aspirations and Molding Standards

Designing a product without considering molding standard necessities might seem like a hurdle, but with Precision Group, it’s an opportunity to showcase their prowess. The specialized engineering team diligently works to dissect, analyze, and transform intricate designs into molding-compatible blueprints. Their proficiency lies not just in understanding designs but in envisioning how these designs can seamlessly align with the prerequisites of the molding process.

Unveiling the Power of CAM/CAD Design

Central to Precision Group’s success is their adeptness in Computer-Aided Manufacturing (CAM) and Computer-Aided Design (CAD). These technologies serve as their artistic canvas, where each stroke of precision and intricacy is carefully etched to bring designs to life. By leveraging the power of these cutting-edge tools, the team crafts intricate pathways, ensuring that the design metamorphoses into a molding-friendly blueprint without compromising its essence.

Collaborative Expertise Driving Innovation

Collaboration is the cornerstone of Precision Group’s modus operandi. The engineering team operates as a collaborative force, bridging the gap between design ingenuity and molding requirements. Their expertise doesn’t just lie in designing; it extends to consultation, working hand-in-hand with clients to understand their vision while guiding them through the intricacies of molding standards.

Precision Group: Transforming Visions into Realities

The journey from design to a final product is a testament to Precision Group’s commitment to excellence. By harnessing the synergy between cutting-edge technology, specialized expertise, and a collaborative approach, they transform intricate designs into molding-ready parts that retain the essence of the initial vision.

Conclusion

Precision Group Tooling and Molding stands as a beacon in the realm of manufacturing, where intricate designs find their perfect harmony with molding standards. Their engineering team’s specialized proficiency in CAM/CAD design doesn’t just bridge gaps; it creates an amalgamation of innovation and precision, turning design aspirations into tangible, molding-ready masterpieces.

For those seeking to transcend design boundaries and venture into the realm of flawless molding, Precision Group emerges as the guiding light, ensuring that every design dream finds its molding-ready reality.

Mastering Injection Molding Challenges: Precision Group Tooling and Molding’s Expertise Unveiled

Introduction

Injection molding stands as a cornerstone in the manufacturing landscape, streamlining the production of intricate components across various industries. However, with its complexity comes a myriad of challenges that manufacturers often encounter in the process.

Common Injection Molding Problems

Warping: Among the top concerns is warping, where molded parts deform due to uneven cooling rates or residual stress. This issue can compromise the integrity and functionality of the final product.
Short Shots: Insufficient material filling the mold cavity results in incomplete parts known as short shots. Addressing this problem requires precise control over factors like temperature, pressure, and material flow.
Flash: Excess material around the edges, or flash, can occur due to mold misalignment or excessive injection pressure, leading to increased production costs and quality issues.
Sink Marks: Surface imperfections like sink marks often arise from inadequate cooling or improper packing of the mold, impacting the aesthetics and structural integrity of the product.
Jetting: Visible lines on the surface of molded parts, known as jetting, stem from improper flow of molten material into the mold, impacting the final product’s appearance.

How Precision Group Tooling and Molding Can Help

At Precision Group Tooling and Molding, we’ve honed our expertise through years of tackling these common injection molding challenges.

Experience and Expertise: With decades of experience, our team possesses in-depth knowledge and a keen understanding of the nuances in injection molding processes.
Advanced Technology: Leveraging cutting-edge technology and state-of-the-art equipment, we optimize the molding process for efficiency and precision.
Custom Solutions: We don’t believe in one-size-fits-all solutions. Our approach involves crafting tailored strategies to address specific molding issues faced by our clients.
Quality Control Measures: Stringent quality control measures are at the core of our operations, ensuring that every part produced meets the highest standards of quality.
Collaborative Approach: We collaborate closely with our clients, delving into their unique requirements and challenges, fostering a partnership that drives successful outcomes.

Success Stories

Different clients encountered ongoing difficulties with their molded components, affecting their production schedules. Through collaborative efforts, precise cooling strategies were applied, effectively resolving the issue and enhancing their overall production efficiency.

Conclusion

Injection molding challenges are ubiquitous, but they needn’t be insurmountable. With Precision Group Tooling and Molding’s wealth of experience, technological prowess, and customer-centric approach, these challenges become opportunities for innovation and success.

Contact us today to discover how our expertise can transform your injection molding processes and propel your business towards excellence.

Decoding Clean Room Molding vs. Regular Molding: How Precision Group Guides Your Decision-Making

Introduction

In the world of manufacturing, the smallest details can make the most significant differences. The choice between clean room molding and regular molding stands as a testament to this truth. Both methods have their unique advantages and are tailored to suit distinct production needs. Navigating through this decision-making process requires a keen understanding of the nuances involved. This is where Precision Group steps in, empowering businesses to make informed choices that align perfectly with their objectives.

Understanding Clean Room Molding

Clean room molding operates within controlled environments where the concentration of airborne particles is minimized and strictly regulated. This meticulous setting ensures that the manufacturing process remains free from contaminants that could compromise the quality of the final product. Industries such as medical device manufacturing, aerospace, and electronics rely on clean room molding to meet stringent cleanliness and precision standards.

The World of Regular Molding

Contrarily, regular molding takes place in environments that may not adhere to the same stringent standards of cleanliness. While it remains a versatile and widely-used technique across various industries, its tolerance for contaminants may not meet the requirements of highly sensitive applications.

Precision Group’s Expertise in Guiding Your Decision

Precision Group stands as a beacon in the realm of manufacturing solutions, offering comprehensive guidance to businesses aiming for excellence. Here’s how they assist in deciphering between clean room molding and regular molding:

Tailored Consultation: Precision Group begins by understanding the unique needs and specifications of a client’s project. Through in-depth consultations, they elucidate the intricacies of both molding methods and how each aligns with the client’s specific industry requirements.
Customized Solutions: Recognizing that every project is distinctive, Precision Group crafts bespoke solutions tailored to address the precision, cleanliness, and quality demands of each client. Their expertise allows for the selection of the most suitable molding approach based on project specifications.
Cutting-Edge Technology: The group harnesses state-of-the-art technology and advanced manufacturing processes to ensure optimal results. Whether it’s the stringent protocols of clean room molding or the efficiency of regular molding, Precision Group integrates the latest technologies to deliver exceptional outcomes.
Quality Assurance: With a steadfast commitment to quality, Precision Group implements rigorous quality control measures throughout the manufacturing process. Their dedication to precision and excellence guarantees the delivery of products that meet or exceed industry standards.
Continuous Support: Beyond the decision-making phase, Precision Group provides ongoing support, ensuring that the chosen molding method consistently meets the client’s evolving needs. Their commitment to customer satisfaction extends far beyond the initial consultation.

Conclusion

In the realm of molding techniques, the choice between clean room molding and regular molding is pivotal. Precision Group’s dedication to understanding client requirements, offering customized solutions, utilizing cutting-edge technology, and ensuring unwavering quality assurance positions them as a reliable partner in making informed decisions.

Ultimately, Precision Group’s expertise serves as a guiding light, enabling businesses to navigate the intricate landscape of molding techniques and choose the approach that best suits their unique objectives and industry standards. With Precision Group by your side, the path to precision manufacturing becomes clearer and more achievable.

In the dynamic world of manufacturing, Precision Group remains at the forefront, empowering businesses to make decisions that pave the way for unparalleled excellence and success.

Mexico’s Manufacturing Makeover: How Precision Group Paved the Way

The landscape of global manufacturing has been undergoing a significant transformation in recent years, with Mexico emerging as a powerhouse destination for manufacturers seeking to shift away from China. In this article, we will explore the factors driving this remarkable shift and focus on the story of Precision Group, one of the pioneering mold makers that established operations in Mexico, thereby becoming a relevant participant in this manufacturing makeover.

1. The Mexican Manufacturing Revolution

Mexico’s manufacturing sector has been growing steadily, and several factors have contributed to its rise as a manufacturing hub. These factors have collectively shaped the “Mexican Manufacturing Revolution”:

a. Proximity to Major Markets: Mexico shares its northern border with the United States, one of the world’s largest consumer markets. This geographical advantage significantly reduces transportation costs, lead times, and supply chain complexities.

b. Trade Agreements and Tariff Reductions: Mexico has a comprehensive network of trade agreements, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). These agreements have reduced trade barriers, making Mexico an attractive destination for companies seeking to reduce tariffs and enhance market access.

c. Labor Costs and Skilled Workforce: Mexico offers competitive labor rates and a highly skilled workforce, especially in industries like automotive, aerospace, and electronics. This combination of affordability and expertise attracts businesses looking to maintain quality while lowering production costs.

d. Supply Chain Resilience: The COVID-19 pandemic exposed vulnerabilities in global supply chains, prompting companies to rethink their strategies. Mexico’s proximity and adaptability make it a resilient option for businesses seeking to diversify their supply chains.

2. Precision Group: Pioneers in Mexican Manufacturing

One of the trailblazers in Mexico’s manufacturing transformation is Precision Group, a company specializing in mold making and injection molding. Here’s how Precision Group played a pivotal role in this shift:

a. Early Entry into Mexico: Precision Group recognized the potential of Mexico’s manufacturing landscape and established its operations there early on. This move allowed them to take full advantage of Mexico’s proximity to major markets.

b. Advanced Technology and Expertise: Precision Group brought advanced mold-making technology and expertise to Mexico. Their commitment to quality and precision helped set new standards in the Mexican manufacturing industry.

c. Local Talent Development: The company invested in training and developing local talent, contributing to the growth of a skilled workforce in the region.

d. Supply Chain Integration: Precision Group integrated seamlessly into the local supply chain, collaborating with other manufacturers to create a robust ecosystem.

3. The Broader Impact

Precision Group success in Mexico is emblematic of the larger trend of companies shifting their manufacturing operations from China to Mexico. This trend has brought significant economic benefits to Mexico, including job creation, increased foreign investment, and technology transfer. It has also enhanced the competitiveness of Mexican manufacturing on the global stage.

Conclusion

Mexico’s manufacturing makeover is not merely a regional phenomenon; it is a global shift in the manufacturing landscape. Factors like proximity to major markets, favorable trade agreements, competitive labor costs, a skilled workforce, supply chain resilience, and technological advancements have made Mexico an attractive destination for manufacturers. Precision Group‘s pioneering role in this transformation showcases the potential for businesses to thrive in Mexico’s dynamic manufacturing environment. As this trend continues, Mexico is poised to play a leading role in the future of global manufacturing.

Advantages of electric plastic injection machines

Plastic injection has had a great evolution since the end of the last century until today.

In this transition, the conditions and infrastructure for plastic injection molding production have been modified in order to improve processes and optimize results.

Among the most significant improvements in the plastic injection molding process in San Antonio is the productivity that electric injection molding machines have brought to the forefront to guarantee the quality demanded by the plastic transformation process.

2023 marks the 40th anniversary of the birth of the first electric plastic injection molding machine, manufactured by the Japanese company Nissei. Since then, electric machines have positioned themselves as the number one choice for guaranteed optimization, control, and flexibility.

That’s why today we are going to talk about the main advantages of electric plastic injectors; if you are looking to buy one or produce your plastic objects through its processes, it is of vital importance to know what we will talk about on this occasion.

Which are the advantages of plastic injection electric machines?

The quality control of plastic injection in San Antonio has many of its key points in the advantages of electric machines, which are enjoyed every day by the different industries where they are implemented.

So join us as we review the most important benefits of electric plastic injection molding machines.

1.- Risk reduction

Several factors make risk reduction a reality with electric plastic injection molding machines.

For example, by not generating heat to start its operation with oil, the electric injection molding machine exponentially reduces the risks of plastic production. In this sense, the low heat emission of electric plastic injection machines generates a safer and more controlled environment, suitable for industries of all types and nature.

2.- Energy reduction

Electric plastic injection molding machines reduce the energy used by up to 70% compared to hydraulic machines.

This index keeps increasing thanks to the simplification of the electric machine parts, that precisely solve any kind of problems with electricity to reduce energy consumption.

One of the most important keys is that, by not using hydraulic pressure as the main source of energy, electric machines generate a lower and more efficient consumption of energy. Thus, the operating and running cost of an electric injection molding machine will always be much lower than that of hydraulic injection molding machines.

This is even more important today as, in the face of intense climate change, injection molding machines make it possible to achieve even lower energy consumption.

3.- Pollution decrease

Electric plastic injection molding machines work without generating as much noise as hydraulic machines, while controlling noise pollution. Thus, the noise generated by electric injection molding machines is approximately 20 decibels, compared to the 70 decibels generated by hydraulic machines.

This has a direct impact on savings in the cost of acoustic insulation of the plants or companies, allowing also a better relationship between the industrial complex and the inhabitants near it.

4.- Lower costs of maintenance

The simplification of the processes established by the nature of electrical machines has a direct impact on their low maintenance cost.

This is due to the reduction of costs also in the production of the parts of the machine, as well as in their global maintenance, because since its birth, the electric injection molding machine is designed to give the least amount of problems and if there are any, solve them in the same way: quickly and with the least possible investment.

5.- Procesos simplificados

A key part of electric plastic injection molding machines is their various electric motors (better known as servomotors), which have systems for regulating critical machine variables such as position, speed, or acceleration.

These motors supplanted several parts of hydraulic machines, such as valves, hoses, or pumps. In this way, electric injection machines are a clear example of today’s industrial technological development.

6.- Precisión total

Electric plastic injection molding machines work without generating as much noise as hydraulic machines while controlling noise pollution. Thus, the noise generated by electric injection molding machines is approximately 20 decibels, compared to the 70 decibels generated by hydraulic machines.

In this way, various specialized parts, such as medical devices made with plastic injection molding, are becoming increasingly common and in demand to be produced electrically.

7.- Major production

Electric machines for plastic injection are much faster than hydraulic machines, due to what we have already mentioned because they make possible the execution of simultaneous processes, optimizing time, space, and resources.

The simultaneous processes are carried out through the independent transmissions that each axis of the machine has, which is unthinkable for hydraulic injection molding machines.

Most hydraulic machines need to heat oil to start their processes, which is not the case with electric injection machines, and their start-up times are considerably faster.

Derived from this, electric machines do not require cooling, unlike hydraulic machines. This way, electric injection molding machines produce many more parts than hydraulic machines.

8.- Universal application

Practically any part can be produced by an electric plastic injection molding machine. For a couple of years, electric machine production has become increasingly specialized, increasing the benefits for new and old products and companies of all sizes.

Finally, you must keep in mind that for the design and implementation of a clean room for plastic injection, it will be necessary to have electrical machines that optimize all your processes.

In Precision Group we have more than 35 years serving multiple industries with the plastic injection that each one needs. All our plastic injection machines are electric, allowing us to grow together with all our customers, learning and maximizing the advantages of this infrastructure and machinery.

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Ventajas de las máquinas eléctricas de inyección de plástico

La inyección de plástico ha tenido una gran evolución desde finales del siglo pasado hasta el día de hoy.

En ese tránsito, las condiciones e infraestructura para la producción de la inyección de plástico han ido modificándose con el objetivo de perfeccionar procesos y optimizar resultados.

Entre las mejoras más significativas del proceso de la inyección de plástico en México destaca la productividad que las máquinas de inyección eléctricas han puesto en alto para garantizar la calidad que exige el proceso de transformación de plástico.

En 2023 se cumplen 40 años del nacimiento de la primera máquina eléctrica de inyección de plástico, fabricada por la empresa japonesa Nissei. Desde entonces las máquinas eléctricas se han posicionado como la opción número uno para una optimización, control y flexibilidad garantizadas.

Es por eso que el día de hoy hablaremos de las principales ventajas de las inyectoras eléctricas de plástico, ya que si estás buscando comprar una o producir tus objetos plástico a través de sus procesos, es de vital importancia saber lo que hablaremos en esta ocasión.

¿Cuáles son las ventajas de las máquinas eléctricas de inyección de plástico?

El control de calidad de la inyección de plástico en México tiene muchos de sus puntos clave en las ventajas de las máquinas eléctricas, que cada día disfrutan las distintas industrias donde se implementan.

Así que acompáñanos para repasar cuáles son las bondades más importantes de las máquinas eléctricas de inyección de plástico.

1.- Reducción de riesgos

Varios son los factores determinantes que hacen que la reducción de riesgos sea una realidad con las máquinas de inyección de plástico eléctricas.

Por ejemplo, al no generar calor para iniciar su funcionamiento con aceite, la inyectora eléctrica reduce exponencialmente los riesgos de la producción plástica. En ese sentido, la baja emisión de calor de las máquinas eléctricas de inyección de plástico genera un ambiente más seguro y controlado, apto para industrias de todo tipo y naturaleza.

2.- Reducción energética

Las máquinas eléctricas de inyección de plástico reducen hasta en un 70% la energía utilizada, comparado con las máquinas hidráulicas.

Este índice sigue en aumento debido a la simplificación de las partes de la máquina eléctrica, que resuelve precisamente con la electricidad problemas de todo tipo para reducir el gasto energético.

Una de las claves más importantes es que, al no utilizar la presión hidráulica como fuente principal de energía, las máquinas eléctricas generan un consumo menor y más eficiente de la misma. De esta manera, el costo de operación y funcionamiento de una máquina de inyección eléctrica siempre será mucho menor que el de las máquinas hidráulicas de inyección.

Esto es aún más importante hoy en día ya que ante el intenso cambio climático que vivimos, las máquinas de inyección hacen posible el conseguir un consumo de energía cada vez más bajo.

3.- Reducción de contaminación

Las máquinas eléctricas de inyección de plástico trabajan sin generar tanto ruido como las hidráulicas, controlando a su vez la contaminación auditiva. Así, el ruido que generan las máquinas eléctricas de inyección llega hasta 20 decibeles aproximadamente, comparado con los 70 decibeles de las máquinas hidráulicas.

Esto repercute directamente en un ahorro en el gasto del aislamiento acústico de las plantas o empresas, permitiendo una mejor relación también del complejo industrial con los habitantes cercanos a ella.

4.- Bajo costo de mantenimiento

La simplificación de los procesos que por naturaleza establecen las máquinas eléctricas impacta directamente en un bajo costo de mantenimiento de las mismas.

Esto debido a la reducción de gastos también en la producción de las piezas de la máquina, así como en un mantenimiento global de la misma, ya que desde su nacimiento, la inyectora eléctrica está pensada para dar la menor cantidad de problemas y si los hay, resolverlas de igual manera: rápidamente y con la menor inversión posible.

5.- Procesos simplificados

Una pieza clave de las máquinas de inyección de plástico eléctricas son sus diversos motores eléctricos (mejor conocidos como servomotores), que cuentan con sistemas de regulación de variables trascendentales de la máquina como posición, velocidad o aceleración.

Estos motores suplantaron varias piezas de las máquinas hidráulicas, como válvulas, mangueras o bombas. De esta manera, las máquinas de inyección eléctrica son un claro ejemplo del desarrollo tecnológico industrial de la actualidad.

6.- Precisión total

Las máquinas eléctricas de inyección de plástico producen piezas con un nivel de detalle y precisión nunca antes visto. Esto en gran parte por los servomotores que mencionamos anteriormente, existiendo uno por cada eje de la máquina.

De esta manera, diversas piezas especializadas, como lo son componentes médicos hechos con inyección de plástico, son cada vez más comunes y demandadas para producirse de manera eléctrica.

7.- Mayor producción

Las máquinas eléctricas para inyección de plástico son mucho más rápidas que las máquinas hidráulicas, debido a lo que hemos hablado con anterioridad, porque hacen posible la ejecución de procesos simultáneos, optimizando tiempo, espacio y recursos.

Los procesos simultáneos se efectúan a través de las transmisiones independientes que tiene cada eje de la máquina, hecho impensable para las máquinas hidráulicas de inyección.

La mayoría de las máquinas hidráulicas necesitan calentar aceite para arrancar sus procesos, caso que no ocurre en las máquinas de inyección eléctricas, siendo sus tiempos de arranque considerablemente más veloces.

Derivado de esto, las máquinas eléctricas no requieren enfriamiento, a diferencia de las máquinas hidráulicas. De esta manera, las máquinas eléctricas de inyección de plástico producen muchas más piezas que las máquinas hidráulicas.

8.- Aplicación universal

Prácticamente cualquier pieza puede ser producida por una máquina eléctrica de inyección de plástico.

Desde hace un par de años, la producción de las máquinas eléctricas ha ido especializándose cada vez más, exponenciando los beneficios anteriores para productos y empresas nuevas, viejas y de todo tamaño.

Finalmente, debes tener en cuenta que para el diseño e implementación de un cuarto limpio para inyección de plástico será necesario contar con máquinas eléctricas que optimicen todos tus procesos.

En Precision Group tenemos más de 35 años al servicio de múltiples industrias con la inyección de plástico que cada una necesita. Todas nuestras máquinas de inyección de plástico son eléctricas, permitiendo así crecer junto con todos nuestros clientes, aprendiendo y maximizando las ventajas de esta infraestructura y maquinaria.

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What machines are used for plastic injection molding in cleanrooms?

Plastic injection production in San Antonio and in the world follows strict controls to guarantee quality and safety, both in the final result as in all the processes.

In this way, the strict compliance to international certifications in plastic injection is one of the obligations of plastic parts manufacturers in general.

And what happens when our products or plastic production needs to be done in a cleanroom? Do you know what we refer to? Don’t worry, today we are going to talk about these spaces and the plastic injection machines required, as well as their main characteristics.

The production of plastic objects is a process that must be completely regulated and pollution-free, to whatever degree, to ensure that your company fulfills national and international standards.

What are cleanrooms?

Remember that cleanrooms are rooms designed to control contamination to 100% in diverse processes as of production or investigation, with the double purpose to eliminate the presence of suspension particles, as well as the possible microbial presence.

Each raw material and its processes has production and quality standards to accomplish. In our case, each plastic polymer has a chemical behavior, in particular to the external conditions of the transformation process, hence the importance of knowing the potential of plastic injection and the requirements to ensure the optimal operation of the cleanroom.

The diversity of industries served by plastic production in Mexico and the world have in cleanrooms an ally, due to the standardization of quality and results that can be achieved.

A very clear example is the healthcare industry, where medical devices made of plastic have been saving the lives of millions of patients for more than 100 years. In this way, cleanrooms operate through 5 controls:

Spacial control
Air control
Operators control
Pressurizer control
Temperature control

In turn, cleanrooms have two main uses: production or assembly. In the case of plastic injection molding, we will generally refer to the first case.

This is a very important factor for several situations that will be mentioned below, among which a doubling of air volume to maintain a balance in the production cleanrooms stands out.

Which machines are most frequently used in plastic injection molding?

In the case of the cleanroom of plastic production, the injection machine is the main equipment on which the design of the other spaces will be assembled.

The injection machine melts the plastic material at high temperatures, empties the plastic into a mold with the final shape we want to obtain, which then cools and solidifies into the required product or part. In this sense, injection machines can be of 3 types:

Hydraulics
Electric
Hybrids

Electric plastic injection molding machines are usually smaller and have a variety of advantages, among which are higher efficiency and a more environmentally friendly process compared to other types of machines. This is the main reason why Precision Group implements 100% electric machines.

Hydraulic machines, on the other hand, are more complex because they transform hydraulic power into mechanical power, which is why they are often used in more complex industrial processes.

The final decision between one or the other will be based on the production of the cleanroom, as well as the quality and cleanliness standards required for your product or process. In turn, plastic injectors consist of 5 basic parts or units:

Injection unit: the plastic is deposited and melted at higher temperatures, then injected into the mold.
Mold unit: in this space will be our injection mold with the desired final form.
Closure unit: also known as press, it consists of 2 arms that open and close holding the mold during the injection.
Power unit: it is the set of systems that give energy to the injector.
Control unit: command control that monitors every machine operation.

For cleanrooms it is usually required to isolate the plastic injection molding machine, connecting it with conveyor belts to another space or clean room to continue its way to the final packaging. This decision will need to be made in consultation with your plastic injection molding supplier.

Needed infrastructure for a cleanroom

Each cleanroom is governed by international laws and certain own rules of the plastic injection process as the following:

Injection machines should be electric or hybrid, with water-cooled motors in the clamping unit.
There should also be a cleaning module that controls air ionization to avoid contamination in the space.
The clean room should have high efficiency air filters (HEPA filters) in the injection molding machine’s clamping units.
The closure units should be stainless steel, as well as the mold plates with nickel plating, to maintain total and constant sterilization.
The base of the machine shall be elevated to fully clean underneath it.
The surfaces of the injector need a coating resistant to abrasion or possible scratches.

What standards do plastic injection molding machines for clean rooms have to meet?

Most cleanrooms for plastic injection molding have to comply with class 7 and 8 guidelines of the European Community’s GMP (Good Manufacturing Practices) standards. In some cases, U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) guidelines also apply.

Regarding the machinery used for plastic injection molding, the GMP guidelines state that every equipment and tools on the manufacturing processes must be calibrated and qualified constantly, according to periodic evaluations.

All actions in the production process must be validated according to these standards, with proper documentation.

Do you want to start your production in a cleanroom for plastic injection? In Precision Group, we have 37 years of being leaders in the industry. Come to us, we are waiting for you. Leave us your comments and share this article with colleagues and acquaintances. See you next time!

¿Qué máquinas se utilizan para la inyección de plástico en cuartos limpios?

La producción de inyección de plástico en México y en el mundo sigue rigurosos controles con el fin de garantizar la calidad y seguridad tanto del resultado final como de todos los procesos.

En ese sentido, el apego estricto a certificaciones internacionales en la inyección de plástico es una de las obligaciones de los productores de piezas plásticas en general.

¿Y qué pasa cuando nuestros productos o producción de plástico debe hacerse en un cuarto limpio? ¿No sabes a qué nos referimos? No te preocupes, el día de hoy hablaremos de estos espacios y las máquinas de inyección de plástico utilizadas en ellos, así como sus características principales.

La producción de objetos plásticos es un proceso que debe estar completamente regulado y libre de contaminación, en el grado que sea, para asegurar que tu empresa cumple con los estándares nacionales e internacionales.

¿Qué son los cuartos limpios?

Recordemos que los cuartos limpios son las salas diseñadas para controlar la contaminación al 100% en diversos procesos tanto de producción o investigación, con el doble objetivo de eliminar la presencia de partículas en suspensión, así como posible presencia microbiana.

Cada materia prima y sus procesos tienen estándares de calidad y producción que cumplir. En nuestro caso, cada polímero plástico posee un comportamiento químico en particular ante las condiciones exteriores de proceso de transformación, de ahí la importancia de saber el potencial de la inyección de plástico y los requerimientos para garantizar el óptimo funcionamiento del cuarto limpio o clean room.

La diversidad de industrias a las que sirve la producción de plástico en México y en el mundo tienen en los cuartos limpios un aliado, debido a la estandarización de la calidad y resultados que permiten lograr.

Un ejemplo muy claro es el de la industria de la salud, donde los componentes médicos hechos de plástico han salvado la vida de millones de pacientes desde hace más de 100 años. De esta manera, los cuartos limpios funcionan a través de 5 controles:

Control espacial
Control de aire
Control de operarios
Control presurizador
Control de temperatura

A su vez los cuartos limpios tienen 2 grandes usos: producción o montaje. En el caso de la inyección de plástico, por lo general nos referiremos al primer caso.

Este es un factor muy importante por varias situaciones que mencionaremos adelante, entre las que destaca un doble de volumen de aire para mantener un equilibrio en los cuartos limpios de producción.

¿Qué máquinas son utilizadas con mayor frecuencia en la inyección de plástico?

En el caso de los cuartos limpios de producción de plástico, la máquina inyectora es la máquina principal sobre la que se ensamblará el diseño de los demás espacios.

La máquina inyectora funde el material plástico a altas temperaturas, vacía el plástico en un molde con la forma final que deseamos obtener, que luego se enfría y solidifica en el producto o pieza requerida. En ese sentido, las máquinas inyectoras pueden ser de 3 tipos:

Hidráulicas
Eléctricas
Híbridas

Las inyectoras de plástico eléctricas son por lo regular más pequeñas y cuentan con una variedad de ventajas, entre las cuales está una mayor eficiencia y un proceso más ecológico en comparación con otro tipo de máquina. Esta es la razón principal por la que en Precision Group implementamos máquinas 100% eléctricas.

Por otro lado, las máquinas hidráulicas, son más complejas debido a que transforman la potencia hidráulica en mecánica, por ello se suelen utilizar con frecuencia en procesos de mayor complejidad industrial.

La decisión final entre una u otra estará basada en la producción del cuarto limpio, así como sus estándares de calidad y limpieza requeridos para tu producto o proceso. A su vez, las inyectoras de plástico constan de 5 partes o unidades básicas:

Unidad de inyección: el plástico es depositado y fundido a altas temperaturas, para después ser inyectado en el molde.
Unidad de molde: en este espacio estará nuestro molde de inyección con la forma final deseada.
Unidad de cierre: conocida también como prensa, consiste en 2 brazos que se abren y cierran, sujetando al molde durante la inyección.
Unidad de potencia: es el conjunto de sistemas que proporcionan energía a la inyectora.
Unidad de control: control de mando que monitorea toda operación de la máquina.

Para los cuartos limpios se requiere por lo regular aislar la inyectora de plástico, conectándose con cintas transportadoras hacia otro espacio o cuarto limpio para seguir su camino al empaque final. Dicha decisión será necesario tomarla con la asesoría de tu proveedor en inyección de plástico.

Infraestructura necesaria para un cuarto limpio

Cada cuarto limpio está regido por normas internacionales y ciertas reglas propias de la inyección de plástico como las siguientes:

Las máquinas inyectoras deben ser eléctricas o bien híbridas, con motores refrigerados por agua en la unidad de cierre.
Debe existir también un módulo de limpieza que controle la ionización del aire para evitar contaminación en el espacio.
El cuarto limpio debe contar con filtros de alta eficiencia de aire (filtros HEPA) en las unidades de cierre de la máquina inyectora.
Las unidades de cierre deben ser de acero inoxidable, así como las placas del molde con recubrimiento de níquel, para mantener una esterilización total y constante.
La base de la máquina será elevada para limpiar totalmente debajo de ella.
Las superficies de la inyectora necesitan un recubrimiento resistente a la abrasión o posibles rayones.

¿Qué estándares deben cumplir las máquinas de inyección de plástico para cuartos limpios?

La mayoría de los cuartos limpios para moldeo por inyección de plástico tienen que cumplir con los lineamientos de la clase 7 y 8 de las normas GMP (Good Manufacturing Practices) de la Comunidad Europea.

En algunos casos también aplican los lineamientos de Normas de la Administración de Alimentos y Medicamentos de los Estados Unidos (FDA).

Acerca de la maquinaria utilizada para la inyección de moldeo, las normativas GMP disponen que todos los equipos y herramientas en los procesos de fabricación de productos deben estar calibrados y cualificados constantemente, acorde a evaluaciones periódicas.

La totalidad de las acciones en el proceso de producción deben estar validadas acorde a estos estándares, con la debida documentación.

¿Quieres empezar tu producción en cuarto limpio para inyección de plástico? En Precision Group tenemos 37 años siendo líderes en el ramo. Acércate, te estamos esperando. Déjanos tus comentarios y comparte este artículo con colegas y conocidos ¡Hasta la próxima!

Medical devices made with plastic injection

It’s impossible to think about the world of the medical industry without the presence of plastic. Each development or medical device made from plastic materials is a window of possibilities and solutions, due to the optimization they provide to this market.

In this sense, plastic injection in San Antonio has collaborated to make these devices a reality with increasingly better results and projection, since plastic has a great adaptability to the needs of the medical field and international standards for its manufacture.

That is why today we will talk about medical devices made with plastic injection and how they are synonyms of innovation both for the plastic industry and the medical industry.

In Precision Group we have been dedicated to plastic injection in San Antonio and Mexico since 1985. We have the infrastructure and experience that your project requires.

Which medical devices are manufactured with plastic injection?

There are many reasons why plastic is one of the most used materials in the medical industry, among which the following stand out:

Lightness
Resistance
Flexibility
Mass production

This way, plastic injection in the medical industry allows us to take advantage of these benefits through many devices with a rich diversity of functionalities and purposes.

Among the best-known cases of plastic devices in the medical world are the following:

Laboratory material: pipettes, beakers, cuvettes, tweezers, extraction tubes.
Syringes and other injection devices.
Packaging for the pharmaceutical industry.
Equipment for specialized purposes such as magnetic resonance.
Prosthetics.

However, there are a myriad of specialty applications that complement these basic applications.

Below, we will mention 3 medical devices made with plastic injection, which have a great future and are generating design, technical and scientific advances.

1.- Vacuum pumps for obstetrics

Complications in childbirth are something that doctors are accustomed to dealing with with the safety of plastic tools, such as the manual vacuum pump, which helps reduce the risks of other devices, such as metal forceps.

This vacuum pump, usually made of polyethylene and silicone in plastic injection, helps the baby to come out when it does not move through the birth canal, either because it gets stuck, is not in the right position, the baby is too big, or when labor is interrupted.

For these situations, the well-known obstetric vacuum cup consists of an arm with a bell-shaped cup, which helps to gently suction the baby’s head. It works to assist the baby’s exit from the birth canal, after which the cup is removed from the pump and normal delivery proceeds.

In Precision Group we have developed an obstetric vacuum cup in conjunction with Prism Enterprises, LP, which has had excellent results in its implementation.

2.- Portable oxygen concentrator

Many times the body’s functioning requires a stable level of oxygen in the blood, presenting these cases more frequently in elderly patients, whose mobility is also diminished over the years.

For these cases, there are designed and produced portable oxygen concentrators that allow this oxygenation to patients with reduced mobility or in wheelchairs, thanks to the lightness of these devices.

The portable oxygen concentrators must have a battery system that can last as many hours as possible, also providing a continuous flow of oxygen as programmed, or accompanying the patient according to their breathing rate.

Patients with portable oxygen concentrators can have the necessary mobility to continue with their normal life at home, also doing their activities the necessary time away from home.

Thanks to portable oxygen concentrators, patients can travel whenever they require, as the concentrators are also regulated and permitted for scheduled flights.

3.- Tissue and Bone Repair Technology

The detailed work required for a bone or tissue reconstruction operation must always be precise and have the necessary tools so that the technology developed can be executed without problems or risks.

OsteoBiologics Inc. is a company located in San Antonio, Texas, dedicated to the production of resorbable biopolymers to replace damaged tissue, developing technology in conjunction with the Texas Health Science Center.

In Precision Group we have designed and developed plastic injection processes for the tools that help OsterBiologics Inc. in this very detailed and specialized reconstruction work.

Get close to Precision Group, the leading manufacturer of plastic injection in the medical industry. Thanks to our Clean Room, where we have the machinery and equipment to meet the requirements of ISO 8 that certify us as authorized producers for medical devices, so we can also advise your project from start to finish. Contact us, we will be happy to help you.