Low Volume Injection Molding – What It Does and When to Use It

07 Jul.,2025

 

Low Volume Injection Molding – What It Does and When to Use It

Injection molding is one of the most popular and cost-effective methods for the mass production of parts. It’s used to make a wide range of items, from car parts to consumer products, but it’s also used to produce low-volume products. Low volume injection molding is a specialized process that involves creating parts with less than 100 pieces. 

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However, these projects are often time-sensitive and require close attention to detail, so it’s important to understand what this molding does and when you should use it. In this blog post, you’ll learn the basics of low volume injection molding and when it might be the best option for your project.

What Is Low Volume Injection Molding?

It is a process used to create plastic parts in small quantities. It is typically used for prototypes or short-run production. The process is similar to traditional injection molding, but the equipment and materials differ. 

Also, Low volume injection molding uses molds that are smaller and simpler than those used for mass production. The machines are also smaller and use less force, making them less expensive and easier to set up.

Meanwhile, the main advantage of low volume injection molding is that it allows you to produce parts quickly and cheaply. It is also well suited for producing complex shapes that would be difficult or impossible to create with other methods.

Benefits Of Low Volume Injection Molding

The benefits of low volume injection molding are many and varied, but the most commonly cited ones are its affordability and speed. Low volume injection molding is an excellent option for prototyping and small-scale production runs, as it is typically much less expensive than traditional injection molding methods. 

Additionally, low volume injection molding can be completed in a fraction of the time of traditional methods, making it an ideal solution for time-sensitive projects.

When Is Low Volume Injection Molding The Best Option?

As the name implies, low volume injection molding is best suited for applications requiring small parts. In many cases, it is the only viable option for prototyping or short-run production. Low volume injection molding has several advantages over other manufacturing methods, including:

Reduce lead times: Because low volume injection molding uses existing molds, there is no need to wait for tooling to be created. This can significantly reduce lead times, especially for prototypes.

Reduce costs: Low volume injection molding is typically more cost-effective than other methods, such as CNC machining or 3D printing, especially when large quantities are not required.

Increase design flexibility: Low volume injection molding makes it possible to make changes to the part’s design without incurring significant tooling costs. This makes it an ideal option for prototyping or making small batches of parts with different designs.

How To Find A Low Volume Injection Molder

The procedure of plastic injection molding can be used to produce multiple units of the same object. Small parts or products with intricate detailing are frequently done via injection molding. When injection molding is used to create objects in low volumes, it is typically referred to as low volume injection molding.

You require low volume injection molding services for a number of reasons. You may have designed a new product and need to create prototypes before going into total production. Or you could run a business that requires periodic production runs of a few hundred parts at a time. 

Also, setting up and tearing down an injection mold each time would be too costly and impractical. Whatever your reasons for needing low volume injection molding, there are a few things to keep in mind when looking for a supplier.

Firstly, consider what materials you will need your parts molded from. Injection molding can be done with many different plastics, but not all suppliers will offer all materials. Make sure to find a supplier who can provide the material you need.

Secondly, take time to understand the different processes involved in injection molding and how they might affect the final cost of your parts. For example, some suppliers may charge more for molds that require multiple cavities or complex geometries.

Finally, get quotes from multiple suppliers before making your decision. Injection molding services can vary widely in price depending on the size and complexity of your project.

Conclusion

In conclusion, low volume injection molding is a great option for businesses looking to produce plastic parts and products in smaller quantities. Using this technique, you can save time and money on production costs while still maintaining quality. This technology has revolutionized the manufacturing industry by providing rapid prototypes that have enabled companies to launch new products much faster. 

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Also, there is a company called Quickparts that is your go-to partner for 3D printing and traditional manufacturing services. They excel in producing parts across a wide range of processes, so you can count on them whether you need prototypes or volume production. With their in-house production capabilities and manufacturing partners worldwide, they can manufacture your parts quickly and efficiently, wherever and whenever you need them!

FAQs

Q1. Which mold is used for low-quantity work?

  • Several different types of molds can be used for low volume injection molding, each with its advantages and disadvantages. The single cavity mold is the most common type, typically used for small, simple parts. However, it could be better suited for complex parts or high production volumes.
  • Another type of mold that can be used for low-volume production is the multi-cavity mold. 
  • The final type of mold used for low volume injection molding is the family tooling mold. This type of mold is typically used for high volumes of production. 

Q2: In the procedure of injection molding, what are the implications of low injection pressure?

Injection pressure is one of the essential variables in injection molding, and it directly affects the quality and the cost of the final product. Low injection pressure can cause several problems, including:

  1. Poor dimensional accuracy
  2. Poor surface finish
  3. Incomplete filling of the mold
  4. Porosity
  5. Warpage
  6. Voids or air pockets
  7. Short shots
  8. Flash

Q3. How do you increase injection pressure?

There are several ways to increase injection pressure. One is to use a higher-pressure pump. Another is to increase the force with which the screw is driven. The third way is to increase the back pressure on the screw.

Q4. What is the holding time in injection molding?

One of the critical factors in injection molding is the holding time. This is when the molten material is held in the mold before being injected. The holding time is essential because it allows the material to cool and solidify, which helps to create a stronger and more durable product.

Q5. How many zones are in the injection molding machine?

Low-Volume Injection Molding: Advantages, Applications ... - Zhongde

Low volume injection molding is an ideal solution for businesses needing specialized, custom plastic or rubber parts in smaller quantities. Low volume plastic mold production for specialized parts allows manufacturers to respond quickly to changes in design or demand without significant upfront investments. In this engineer’s guide to low volume injection molding, we’ll explore the key benefits and considerations of using low volume production molds for both plastic and rubber components.

What is Low-Volume Injection Molding?

Low-volume injection molding, also called small run injection molding,  is a plastic manufacturing process that typically involves producing fewer than 10,000 pieces, often ranging from 100 to 1,000 units.  At its core, it involves the creation of plastic or polymer parts in quantities that are significantly smaller than those associated with high-volume production methods. This approach has gained prominence for its ability to deliver cost-effective solutions, rapid prototyping capabilities, and unparalleled flexibility in part design.

Zhongde as one of low volume injection molding companies, our low-volume runs range from a few hundred to a few thousand units. This marked departure from the high-volume approach enables businesses to optimize their production processes and expenditures, especially when precision and customization are paramount.

Advantages of Low-Volume Injection Molding

  • Less Expensive Molds: Low-volume production molds made of materials like aluminum or soft/semi-hardened steels offer substantial cost savings. These savings come from both the lower material costs and reduced machining expenses. Compared with steel molds which cost from $ to $+, the low-volume injection molds are very cost effective.
  • Shorter Lead Times: The aluminum mold is easy and speedy to shape. This speedy mold production translates to shorter lead times from the beginning of mold-making to the start of injection molding. Faster mold creation also accelerates the overall time it takes to bring your injection-molded products to market. While Steel molds usually need 4-8 weeks.
  • Reduced Production Costs: Compared to using hardened steel molds, low-volume injection molding with aluminum molds allows for the production of more parts in the same amount of time. Because aluminum has greater thermal conductivity than steel. This increased production efficiency translates to lower production costs per part, making it a cost-effective choice.

Disadvantages of Low-Volume Injection Molding

  • Limited Volumes: One of the limitations of small run injection molding is its name itself—it’s designed for smaller quantities. If initial demand estimations are inaccurate and you later need to transition from low-volume to high-volume injection molding, it can result in higher costs. Switching to high-volume production often requires new tooling and molds, which can be a substantial additional expense.
  • Reduced Mold Life: The materials used for low-volume injection molds, such as aluminum or softer metals, have limitations when it comes to mold life. These molds are not as durable as those made from hardened steel. Over time, the wear and tear on these molds can lead to a reduced lifespan, which may necessitate mold replacement, adding to maintenance costs.
  • Design Constraints: Low-volume molds made from softer metals have certain design constraints. They may not achieve the same level of tight tolerances and fine surface finishes as molds made from hardened steel. This limitation can impact the precision and quality of the produced parts, which could be a concern for projects with strict design requirements.

Key Considerations of Low-Volume Injection Molding

Choose the Right Material for the Project

Different materials offer distinct properties, including strength, flexibility, temperature resistance, and durability. Selecting the appropriate material for low volume plastic injection molding  is a pivotal decision. Consider the unique requirements of the project and collaborate closely with material suppliers and mold designers to make the ideal choice. This ensures that your part performs optimally, both in terms of functionality and cost-efficiency.

Finesse a Part’s Finish

Achieving the desired surface finish is crucial, as it can impact both aesthetics and functionality. Work closely with mold designers to finesse the part’s finish, considering factors like texture, gloss, and any specific requirements for your application.

Uniform Wall Thickness

Too thick can lead to cooling issues, while too thin can result in structural weaknesses. It’s important to consider the appropriate wall thickness to avoid issues like warping or sink marks during the cooling process. Ideally, wall thicknesses should typically stay within the range of 0.04 to 0.14 inches (1 to 3.5mm). Thicker walls can lead to cooling inconsistencies and potential defects, while thinner walls may result in structural weaknesses. Striking the right balance in wall thickness is essential for producing high-quality molded parts.

Rounded Edges and Corners

Incorporate rounded edges and corners whenever possible. Sharp angles can be challenging to mold and may lead to part defects.

Avoid Undercuts

Minimize or eliminate undercuts in your design, as they can complicate the ejection of the part from the mold.

Proper Draft Angles:

Draft angles are essential for ensuring that the molded part can be easily removed from the mold without damaging it. All vertical faces should have at least 0.5 degrees of draft, but if the part design allows, it’s preferable to have 2 to 3 degrees of draft. In some cases, complex surfaces may even require as much as 5 degrees of draft. These draft angles facilitate smooth ejection of the part from the mold, reducing the risk of defects and ensuring a successful molding process.

Applications of Low-Volume Injection Molding

Rapid Prototyping

Low-volume injection molding is a vital tool in the realm of rapid prototyping. Designers and engineers can swiftly transform the concepts into tangible prototypes. It enables thorough testing, design tweaks, and refinements, ensuring that the final product meets or exceeds expectations. In today’s competitive market, being the first to market with a high-quality product is often the key to success, and low-volume molding plays a pivotal role in achieving that goal.

Low-Volume Parts Production

In the world of manufacturing, not every project calls for mass production. Sometimes, you need just a small batch of parts. This is where low-volume injection molding shines. Many niche products, limited production runs, and specialized components fall into this category. Whether you’re creating unique automotive parts, medical devices, or specialized electronic components, low-volume injection molding caters to the demand for precision and quality in smaller quantities. It’s cost-effective and efficient, making it an ideal choice for projects where quantity isn’t the primary focus.

On-Demand Injection Molding

The modern manufacturing landscape demands adaptability and efficiency. Enter low-volume injection molding as the solution for on-demand manufacturing. Companies can order custom parts tailored to their exact specifications, whether it’s specific shapes, materials, or unique features. This flexibility minimizes excess inventory, streamlines production, and ultimately leads to significant cost savings.

Alternatives to Low-Volume Injection Molding

CNC Machining

CNC Machines can be highly automated and precise. CNC machining is an alternative to injection molding for lower part volumes, especially when parts have complex geometries. Multi-axis CNC machines are often required for intricate designs.