Dip Molders
Dip molders form plastic parts and products by dipping a mold into liquid plastic then treating the product with heat. Most dip molding manufacturers also provide dip coating services, which use a similar process to partially or fully coat parts and products in various types of polymers. Both processes are used in consumer industries, medical equipment and electronic connectors. Dip molders produce plastic caps and plastic plugs for packaging and furniture industries, as well as latex gloves, handle grips, bellows and condoms for consumer industries. Dip moldings and coatings are highly cost-effective, as there are no
dies to fabricate, and most plastic coated and molded parts require
little post-forming processing. Labor costs are low, and the
dip molding and coating processes can manufacture high volumes in a
short time. In addition to providing a colorful, attractive finish to
various products, plastic coatings provide corrosion
resistance, scratch and wear protection and a smooth, tactile,
resilient grip for safe, easy handling.
During the process, dip molders heat the polymer or vinyl material until is assumes a liquid state. Primed aluminum or steel mandrels are then dipped into the plastic from an overhanging rack. The coating is typically a polymer or vinyl,
the most common being PVC coating and plastisol. Polyethylene coatings
and urethane coatings are also applied by dip coating. Dip moldings may
be made from all of these materials as well. Wall thicknesses can be determined by how long the mandrels are left in the plastic as well as at what temperature the liquid plastic and mandrels are kept. Double walls may be applied with multiple dippings. A variety of finishes are available for dip molded parts and coatings,
from smooth satin finishes to rough matte finishes. Sometimes, urethane or nitrile molding coat mold products in the form of
foam and provide extra cushioning.