Can 3D Printing Replace Injection Molding In The Near Future?
This is a fast-running world. Development has never been this steady ever in the past, and it is most likely to increase its pace in the upcoming future. As a result, much conventional stuff has been replaced with modern technologies to make it eligible to fit in today’s world requirement. One such question has been now raised on the very popular shaping method- the medical injection molding. Will 3D technology be able to replace this exceptional method of shaping? Let us know more in this article.
What is Injection Molding, and why is it prevalent?
Injection molding is an ancient method of shaping objects in a desired range and size, along with beautiful cutouts. This method has been very successful right from its origin and hence is very much prevalent to date. A mold cavity is used in this process, which comes in different shapes, sizes, and designs. Then plastic material is injected inside that mold after being heated properly. Now the mold is kept aside to cool properly and achieve a hardened texture. Once done, it is ejected outside of the mold cavity. In the end, we are left with a brand-new product of plastic or any other material.
What are the chances of it being outdated in the upcoming future?
Medical injection molding through a successful method has its drawbacks. One cannot expect to have a variety of options through this manufacturing process. This reason is enough for it to get outdated in the upcoming future. The replacement can be 3D printing. 3D is a nascent technique that allows the manufacturer to bring out his imagination in front of the world in just a matter of seconds. He just has to create a picture of his imagination on a model file on the computer and get it printed out using a 3D printer. This method requires ample raw materials to be executed beautifully. Your 3D printer can convert the simple painting into a non-living hard object just with the use of raw materials.
Constant developments are occurring in 3D printing, which is more likely to speed up in the future.
Advantages of 3D printing over injection molding
Though there are several advantages of 3D printing over injection molding, they are not enough to outnumber injection molding. However, with the technological advancements, nothing can be predicted in absolute favor of medical injection molding. The advantage of 3D printing is that it provides a wide variety of objects. In addition, molding gives you a specific dimension of imagination that cannot be broken. However, this is not the case with 3D printing.
Final Words
No matter what, injection molding has maintained its image of being the most successful manufacturing method for a reason. The machinery used in this method is specialized, which can create objects faster than 3D printing. Therefore, in conclusion, 3D printing has to travel a lot forward to outnumber the success and popularity of the injection molding process.