There are numerous benefits to selecting structural foam or gas assist molding. Structural foam molding is an excellent conversion alternative for wood, metal, concrete and fiberglass. It can also offer a significant ROI in comparison to other processes such as rotational molding, RIM, thermoforming, die cast, injection, and SMC. The result is a significant reduction in cost and vast increase in productivity. The following are the key benefits of structural foam molding:

  • 20% less weight than high pressure parts
  • 3-4 times more rigid than solid parts
  • Substantial cost reductions
  • Low mold cavity pressure allows lower cost tooling
  • High stiffness-to-weight ratio
  • High dimensional stability
  • Capable of molding parts as thin as .156″ thick or greater
  • Low warp and part stress
  • Multiple molds can run simultaneously
  • Functions as excellent substrate for high quality painted finish applications
  • Virtually any thermoplastic can be foamed

Proven success with molded plastics projects from concept to reality

Key benefits of gas assist molding are as follows:

  • Design freedom utilizing thick and thin wall sections
  • Hollow gas channels increase stiffness and reduce cooling time
  • Improved aesthetics (low warp, no sink marks, etc.)
  • Reduced cavity pressure equals lower tonnage, more efficient machines
  • Significantly reduced cooling and overall cycle time

Gas assist molding is a low pressure injection molding process where nitrogen gas is injected into a polymer melt immediately after the injection of a plastic resin into the mold.