Dip Molding Manufacturing Review

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Dip Molding Manufacturing Review

Dip Molding is the process where a heated form or pattern is dipped into a heated or ambient temperature material. The pattern is normally dipped into molding material multiple times to build successive layers until the desired part thickness is obtained. After the material has cooled or solidified, the molded part is removed from the form or pattern. Dip molding is a very capable process as intricate and underncut geometries are possible, howeverdesig requiring trapped volumes or other features resulting in a air pockets should be avoided.

Dip molding materials are normally polymer compounds refered to as Plastisol. Plastisol is a polymer vinyl compound which is in a liquid state at ambient temperatures. When Plastisol is heated to a known temperature, the Plastisol material fuses into a durable plastic - rubber like material. After the application of heat energy, the Plastisol does not return to the liquid state. Plastisol polymer compounds can be formulated to a wide range of hardness, matte to glossy finish, color, chemical and solvent resistance, or with specific dielectric or other electrical characteristics. Many plastisol compounds are used in applications meeting FDA non-toxic standards.

Typical Dip Molding applications:

• Surgical gloves
• Hand tool handles
• Caps
• Covers
• Grips
• Plugs