Injection Molding Materials
There are many types of materials that can be used in injection molding. Most polymers can be used, including all thermoplastics, some thermosets and some elastomers. These materials are usually in the form of small pellets or fine powder when used in injection molding. Additionally, colorants can be added during the process to control the color of the finished piece. Material selection for injection molding depends on more than the desired properties of the final product. While each material has different properties that affect the strength and function of the finished part, these properties also determine the parameters used in the processing of these materials. Each material requires a different set of processing parameters in the injection molding process, including injection temperature, injection pressure, mold temperature, injection temperature and cycle time. Below is a comparison of some commonly used materials.
| Material name | Usage areas |
| Acetal | Bearings, cams, gears, levers, sanitary components, rollers, rotors, slide guides, valves |
| Acrylic | Display stands, buttons, lenses, light housings, panels, reflectors, signs, shelves, trays |
| Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene | Automotive (console, panels, trim, vents), boxes, gauges, enclosures, inhalers, toys |
| Cellulose Acetate | sleeves, eyeglasses frames |
| Polyamide 6 (Nylon) | Bearings, bushings, gears, rollers, wheels |
| Polyamide 6/6 (Nylon) | Sleeves, sleeves, small enclosures, zippers |
| Polyamide 11+12 (Nylon) | Air filters, eyeglass frames, safety masks |
| Polycarbonate | Automotive (panels, lenses, consoles), bottles, containers, enclosures, light covers, reflectors, safety helmets and shields |
