Single
Material
|
Only a single polymer material is
considered in the injection process. Single Material is supported by
both solid and shell analysis procedures. |
Bi-injection |
Two different
polymer materials are injected (possibly at the same time) at
different locations, with each injection process being
independently controlled. The materials meet, and form a weld
line within the cavity.
Only the solid analysis procedure
supports Bi-injection. A single cavity and two materials are
allowed. |
Co-injection
|
Two different polymer materials are injected
sequentially at the same location (sandwich molding). Common
reasons for using co-injection are:
- To use a cheaper fill material for the
hidden core of a product.
- To combine properties of different
polymers, such as color, feel, or mechanical
properties.
Co-injection is supported by the solid analysis procedure
only. A single cavity and two materials are allowed.
|
Gas-assist |
A pressurized inert gas (typically
nitrogen) is injected into a partially or nearly-filled cavity.
The gas displaces the molten plastic material in thicker regions
of the part to complete the filling and to pack the cavity. The
resulting
hollow part
offers
several benefits: less plastic material, reduced part weight,
lower cycle time, reduced warpage
and
distortion, and improved part appearance.
Gas-assist is
supported by the solid analysis procedure only. A single cavity and
two materials are allowed. |
Water-assist |
Water is injected into the melted
polymer stream to create a hollow part. Water-assist is supported by the solid analysis procedure only.
A single cavity and two materials are allowed.
|
Multi Material
Overmolding |
Two or more different polymer materials are injected
within the same cycle. Separate injection nozzles introduce
materials sequentially into the cavities. This is achieved by using
a special mold that rotates between cycles. You can use up to six
different materials. This process is also called
multi-shot injection.
|