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Fascinating history of injection molding - A journey through time with aXpel injection


aXpel explains: The process of injection molding - inventor of the first injection molding machine

As a dedicated plastic parts manufacturer, aXpel injection has a proud history of injection molding. In this article, we want to express our appreciation for this groundbreaking technology and look at how it has evolved over the years.

The origin of the injection molding process dates back to the 19th century. In 1868, American John Wesley Hyatt invented the first injection molding machine to meet the growing demand for celluloid billiard balls. This early machine was more of a simple contraption, relying on simple leverage to force raw material melted by a heated cylinder into the mold. Nevertheless, she laid the foundation for the modern plastics industry.

With the advent of new plastics such as Bakelite in the early 20th century, injection molding machines have also evolved. In 1930, German engineer Arthur Hehl invented the first patented screw injection molding machine, which featured more precise control of material flow and was a major milestone in the industry. This machine improved the quality of the parts produced and made it possible to process a wider range of materials. The invention of the screw extruder resulted in more uniform and complex products.

Injection molding experienced rapid expansion in the decades that followed as more and more industries recognized the benefits of this technology. The demand for plastic products increased steadily, mainly due to the increased demands of World War II and the subsequent economic growth.

The injection molding process evolved as the electronics industry expanded rapidly in the 1950s and 1960s. Manufacturing smaller, more precise plastic parts became increasingly important, and modern machines allowed for higher speeds, greater flexibility and improved quality. This period was marked by the introduction of automation and computer control, which made it possible to reduce cycle times and increase production capacity.

With the advent of new materials such as thermoplastic elastomers and engineering plastics, the possibilities of injection molding continued to expand in the 1970s and 1980s. These materials led to new applications in automotive, electronics and consumer goods.

Today, injection molding is one of the most important < a href="https://www.axpel-injection.com/toolmaking" target="_blank">Methods used to manufacture plastic parts used in a variety of applications, from automotive parts and medical devices to packaging and toys. With increasing digitization, computer-aided design (CAD) and computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) techniques have the potential of Injection molding process further expanded. They enable the production of complex and customized parts with high precision and efficiency.

At aXpel injection, we are proud to be part of this success story and serve our customers by providing high quality Support injection molded parts and solutions.


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