Insert molding solutions are commonplace throughout the renewable energy industry. From parts for solar panels to plastic wear bushings used in numerous renewable energy methods, plenty of insert molded parts exist in this space.
While these parts are well known on the surface, how are they created? What overlooked benefits are there to insert molding solutions? Agape Plastics answers these questions as we explore how this service works within the renewable energy industry along with its benefits.
What is Insert Molding?
Insert molding falls within the injection molding family of plastic components. The difference between regular injection molding and insert molding, however, is that products made through insert molding have the plastic materials formed or molded around non-plastic materials.
More often than not, that non-plastic material is a type of metal. The process largely mirrors regular injection molding.
Key Advantages of Insert Molding Solutions
Since insert molding solutions differ from regular injection molding components, they come with their own unique set of benefits.
Improved Reliability, Strength and Durability
The products have metal components built into them and are stronger than just plastic. Since the parts are stronger, they are proven to be more reliable and durable, giving them a longer lifespan and making them an excellent choice for renewable energy products.
Cost-Effectiveness
While there might be higher costs upfront, there is less labor involved producing insert molded services, which drives the cost down. Also, with the components being more reliable and durable than regularly plastic injected parts, the need for repairs, replacement or any other type of maintenance work is reduced.
Reduced Size and Weight
How can a product be lighter if there’s metal in it? Insert molding solutions eliminate the need for additional fastening pieces, bringing the weight and size down in the final product.
Design Flexibility
Since multiple materials are combined to make a single product, there are limitless combinations that can be drawn up during the design process and discovery phase of a project.
Applications Within the Renewable Energy Industry
So, where do insert molding solutions show up in the renewable energy industry? In many ways and multiple components that are necessary for equipment to function properly.
- Wind Turbines: Components such as electrical housings, internal fittings, and blade inserts
- Solar Panels: Mounting brackets, housing covers, electrical connectors, bushings, and frames
- Fuel Cells: Integrated sensor carriers, housings, and seals
Contact Agape Plastics Today for Your Insert Molding Solutions
Agape Plastics has been hard at work for you since 1973, delivering expert insert molding solutions throughout numerous industries — including the renewable energy industry.
Our ISO 14001 certificate highlights our quality management systems and ability to leave a minimal environmental footprint — a key certification for any manufacturer working closely with customers in the renewable energy space.
Connect with us today to see how we can make a difference for your next project and find an insert mold solution that works for you.