LKprototype All "low volume injection molding" articles
Rapid Injection Molding Cost: Tooling, Part Price, and Break-Even Volume Explained
If you are evaluating whether rapid injection molding fits your program, the honest answer is that there is no single price. Cost splits into a one-time tooling investment and a recurring per-part price, and the split determines whether the process makes sense at your volume. This guide breaks down the cost structure and shows how to model break-even against CNC machining and 3D printing. Key takeaways Rapid injection molding cost has two parts: non-recurring tooling (NRE) plus a recurring per-part price that includes material, machine time, and finishing. Aluminum rapid tooling is the cheapest and fastest but has limited tool…
Vacuum Casting vs Low Volume Injection Molding: Cost, Speed & Quality Compared
Choosing between vacuum casting and low volume injection molding depends on your specific needs for small batch production. Vacuum casting has a lower initial cost and allows for easier design changes. On the other hand, low volume injection molding produces parts faster and offers a lower cost per part when producing larger quantities. The table below highlights the key differences: FeatureVacuum CastingLow Volume Injection MoldingSetup CostLow to moderateHigher upfrontPer-Unit CostHigher at scaleLower with volumeLead TimeShorterLonger setup, faster cyclesTool LifeUp to 200 partsUp to 50,000 shots Key Takeaways Vacuum casting works well for small groups and fast samples. It costs less…
