Manufacturing Company — Although there are several excellent plastic injection molding companies, even among those, you’ll find stark differences in quality and pricing. For that reason, you need to start by identifying a trusted and reliable plastic injection molding machine company. In particular, focus on one that specializes in supplying customers with this type of equipment. Also, look for a source that offers a broad range of products. This is especially important if you make a variety of products.

Platen — Another factor when buying a plastic injection molding machine is the size of the platen. As the table per se that holds the mold cavity, you want to make sure you have the appropriate size for your specific needs. The platen is what the clamped mold secures to as part of the injection molding process.

Shot Size — There’s also the shot size to consider. Keep in mind that if you need guidance at any time, the plastic injection molding machine company you do business with will help. As for the size of the shot, this refers to the maximum amount of plastic the machine can inject going into the mold cavity. The best option is a machine that produces between 30 and 40 percent greater shot sizes than what the part requires.

Tonnage — You also need to factor in the tonnage when choosing a plastic injection molding machine. This refers to the clamping pressure the equipment delivers. The number of tons the machine is capable of producing when pressing the platens together is how experts measure tonnage.

Ejector Stroke — One final factor has to do with the ejector stroke, which is the action of the machine as it ejects the completed workpiece from the platens. In other words, once the plastic heats, moves into the mold, shapes the product, and then cools, the ejector stroke is what releases the finished product. This process uses ejector pins, which help with the pushing action.