Aluminum Mold or Steel Injection Mold: What’s the Best for Your Product?
Can’t decide between an aluminum or steel injection mold for your product? Both have unique benefits; your choice ultimately depends on what you’re looking for in a mold.
Continue reading this blog to evaluate aluminum and steel injection molds and decide which is best for your product.
The Basics of Aluminum and Steel Injection Mold
Injection molding is a manufacturing process for producing parts by injecting material into a mold. You can conduct injection molding with various materials, but aluminum and steel are two of the most common. Both aluminum and steel have their benefits and drawbacks for injection molding.
Aluminum is a popular choice for plastic injection molding because it’s lightweight and easy to use. Aluminum molds are also less expensive than steel molds. However, aluminum molds wear out quickly and aren’t resilient.
Steel is another popular choice for injection molding. Steel molds are more robust than aluminum but are also more expensive. They can also be tricky to work with because of their weight.
Output Rate
With the global supply chain crisis, manufacturing companies must find innovative ways to fast-track their production methods. It’s no secret that using traditional production methods isn’t enough. We recommend you get your hands on injection molds to speed up you’re manufacturing.
The output rate is one of the most important factors when choosing between an aluminum or steel injection mold. Aluminum molds are typically quicker than steel molds, which means you can produce more products in a shorter period. Aluminum molds have shorter cycle times, which helps them complete the manufacturing process efficiently.
Winner: Aluminum
Durability
There are a few key factors to consider when deciding between an aluminum mold or steel injection mold for your product. One of the most important factors is durability. Steel molds are more durable than aluminum molds as they can withstand extreme conditions.
Durability is significant if you plan on using your mold for multiple production processes. Aluminum molds can also be quite durable, but they are more likely to suffer from wear and tear over time. Steel molds also tend to last longer than aluminum molds. We recommend using steel molds if you’re looking for a mold that will last for years.
Winner: Steel
Cost
It’s no secret that global companies are struggling to manage their finances. With the rising global inflation, businesses must keep a close eye on their costs to maximize profits. Your company can face a financial nightmare if you don’t examine your costs beforehand.
If you’re trying to decide between an aluminum mold or steel injection mold for your product, the cost is likely one of the factors you’re considering. So, which is more expensive?
Undoubtedly, steel molds are more expensive than aluminum molds. Steel is more durable as it can withstand more wear and tear. It’s no surprise that steel molds usually have a longer lifespan than aluminum molds. Steel molds also typically have a higher upfront cost than aluminum molds.
On the other hand, aluminum molds are less expensive than steel molds. Aluminum is not as durable as steel, so it doesn’t last as long. However, aluminum molds are much easier to repair than steel molds, so you won’t have to replace them frequently.
Aluminum molds also have a lower fixed cost than steel molds. They’re also lighter than steel molds and require less energy. Aluminum injection molds can save money in the long run and increase production efficiency.
Winner: Aluminum
Product Volume
You should use steel molds if you’re looking for a mold that can handle high volumes of product. Steel molds can endure high pressure and temperatures. They’re also less likely to distort over time and can generate substantial quantities of a product without any issues.
Aluminum molds are not as well-suited for high-volume production. It’s because aluminum is more prone to warping under an extensive environment.
Winner: Steel
Heat Dissipation
When it comes to heat dissipation, aluminum molds have the upper hand. Aluminum is a much better conductor of heat than steel, as it can dissipate heat more quickly. Heat dissipation is crucial because it’ll help your product cool down faster and decrease bending.
Winner: Aluminum
Manufacturing Detailed And Complex Parts
There are a few factors to consider when deciding between an aluminum mold or steel injection mold for your product. The first is the complexity of the part you’re trying to produce. A steel mold is likely your best option if you’re building a complex product. You can use aluminum molds for less complex parts whereas steel molds are better suited for complex products.
Winner: Steel
Which Injection Mold Should You Select?
So, which is better for your product – an aluminum or steel injection mold? It depends on what you’re looking for and what your priorities are. Steel is the way to go if you need a mold that can survive higher temperatures. However, if you’re looking for a lighter and more reasonable option, then aluminum might be the better choice. Ultimately, it’s up to you to decide which is best for your product.
Technical Assistance Available from Plastic Injection Molding Manufacturers in China
Can’t decide between aluminum and steel injection mold? The team at PTMS can help you out. We examine your company’s manufacturing processes and guide you accordingly. We’re aware that injection molding can become a burden on your company’s budget, and this is why we offer affordable custom plastic injection molding mass production for our clients.
We’re an experienced plastic injection molding manufacturer in China, and we’ve been working in the manufacturing industry since 2002.
So, what are you waiting for? Get in touch with us today for more details about our injection molding manufacturing services.