Metal and plastic injection molding is an essential step in the processing of various parts for a multitude of industries. From automobiles to electronics to medical supplies, countless fields and companies rely on the technology for providing machine parts and preformed components. If your business is in one of these industries, or supplies products for them, you can benefit from either having the parts fabricated for you or doing the work in-house.

There's more than one option to obtain the products you need. It depends on the materials, the number of and how often you need the products, and what kind of budget you have in mind. Consider the options below to see what injection molder services or equipment would work best for your business:

1. Look into metal injection molding services for machine parts.

2. Locate plastic molding companies for lightweight medical devices and electronics casings.

3. Weigh the advantages of purchasing your own new or used injection molding machine.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Cut out the middleman and contract your metal injection molding directly

As a supplier of metal parts for automotive, electronics or machining industries, you can cut costs by having the products molded for you rather than relying on another dealer. Looking into injection molding services for metal parts can increase your profits and your independence. Deal with your manufacturer directly instead of through another distributor.

I recommend: Locate metal injection molding companies that can provide the services you're looking for. See what options NetShape Technologies offers, or get a quote for pricing from Kinetics or MIM Forms.

Get your components straight from a plastic injection molding service

As with metal components, having your plastic products formed specifically for your distribution rather than another company's can save you money. If you sell casings or components for electronic or medical devices - among others - develop a relationship with the producer of materials. You'll be in direct contact with the manufacturer and can order parts custom-made for your specifications, leaving you open to sell parts for whichever products you decide.

I recommend: Get quotes for services from plastic injection molders such as The Rodon Group or XCentric, or send your parts specifications to ProtoMold for pricing and production options.

Make your business self-reliant with your own metal and plastic molding machines

If you foresee major distribution of molded parts in the future of your business, buying a molding machine for your own use is an excellent way of increasing your profits and self-sufficiency. Manufacture the products you need, using your own equipment, and cut down on your reliance on other companies.

I recommend: Look into purchasing your own injection molder from Milacron or Technical Machine Products. You can find used equipment at Aaron Equipment Co., or check out the inventory at Prime Machinery.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  If you're looking to expand your business by buying your own equipment, consider getting machines for both metal and plastic injection molding. It will be more expensive up front to buy two kinds of machinery, but having the diversification will pay off in the long run.