Innovators across industries depend on contract manufacturers for plastic components critical to the success of their cutting-edge solutions. In many sectors, parts made to tight tolerance specifications are crucial for equipment operation and device safety. That’s especially true for the healthcare sector, where parts that keep devices functioning optimally could literally save someone’s life.
However, not all injecting molding manufacturers can consistently deliver precision components. Specializing in tight-tolerance injection molding is essential, but consistency in producing precision components also depends on the manufacturer’s overall approach. A reliable tight-tolerance manufacturing partner has invested in specialized equipment, creates systems and protocols that focus on quality control, offers secondary services, and brings a high level of expertise to the table.
Read on to find out what sets an exceptional tight-tolerance partner apart from other plastic manufacturers and why healthcare experience matters.
What is tight tolerance injection molding?
Tight tolerance injection molding is a process in which resin is formed into plastic parts with exact dimensions. All injection molding uses specific tolerances–the established range within which a product can deviate from its ideal dimensions. Standard injection molding uses dimensional tolerances in the range of +/- 0.1 mm. Tight tolerances may be as narrow as +/- 0.051 mm or even +/- 0.025 mm.
Tight tolerances are critical for industries such as aerospace, automotive, and healthcare, where the slightest discrepancy in a part can compromise the functionality or safety of the equipment.
Consistently achieving tight tolerances
While many companies offer tight-tolerance services, not all can consistently meet tight specifications with every production run. To produce precision parts reliably, the manufacturer must invest in infrastructure and resources that support tight-tolerance injection molding. Companies that invest robustly can be trusted to live up to their tolerance claims.
Critical areas that support precision production include:
Precision methodology: a quality-driven approach
The methodology employed by the manufacturer indicates the level of precision they can achieve for their products.
Precision methodology requires:
Accuracy and alignment between the part design and the mold design
Durable plastic resins that maintain consistency without shrinking
Automation and process controls that reduce human error and enhance consistency
Advanced metrology tools for precision measurements
Of course, rigorous quality checks at all stages of production are essential for all products to meet tight tolerance specifications.
Advanced manufacturing setup: precision tools for precision parts
Tight tolerances are difficult to achieve with a basic injection molding setup; the precision method requires state-of-the-art manufacturing equipment. Precision manufacturers invest in sophisticated technology designed to support tight tolerances. Examples include programmable machines and robotics, high-precision molds, and real-time monitoring systems that perform regular quality checks.
Tight-tolerance manufacturers may also maintain a clean room environment. Clean rooms eliminate contaminants such as dust and microbes, which is particularly important when manufacturing many types of medical devices.
Design and engineering: excellence from concept to production
A manufacturing company offering comprehensive design and engineering services can go beyond simple production. The manufacturer’s skilled engineers and designers work with the customer throughout production. Collaboration of this caliber ensures that specifications are adhered to from the prototype until the product hits the market.
Above and beyond: healthcare experience
Manufacturing parts with tight tolerances has extremely high stakes throughout the healthcare industry. From hospital care to pharmaceuticals and beyond, clinicians rely on medical devices to keep patients safe and treatments effective.
A tight tolerance injection molding company with experience in the healthcare industry understands the complexity involved in precision production. Numerous factors, including design, mold analysis, materials selection, quality assurance, and regulatory requirements, all contribute to safety and positive clinical outcomes. A manufacturer with a proven track record of delivering precise, reliable parts has clearly made a commitment to the patients at the end of the line–especially those depending on devices for life-saving medical care.
A partner in innovation
A tight tolerance injection molding company with healthcare experience goes beyond the expectations of a standard contract manufacturing contract. An exceptional manufacturer can serve as a trusted partner in product innovation. From R&D support through production, a tight-tolerance manufacturer ensures that every step upholds the highest standards of quality and precision, contributing to the confidence and integrity of the entire project. By integrating leading-edge designs with complex technical requirements, precision manufacturers support innovators in bringing groundbreaking new solutions to the market.
Elite Precision Plastics is a U.S.-based manufacturer with extensive healthcare experience that specializes in high-quality, tight tolerance injection molding. Contact us to learn more about our comprehensive, ISO 13485-certified manufacturing services.