Overmolding of ball joint

Overmolding of a high precision ball joint onto a stainless steel axle. Used in the assembly of a joystick to control wheel chairs. At Davantech we are among other things specialized in overmolding of metal parts, Electric cables and electronic circuit boards.
Insert molding and overmolding are special production processes. Plastic is injected over another material such as another plastic, metal or printed circuit board. Thus, it makes the assembling process faster and more cost-effective than gluing, for instance. As a result it is widely used in plastic parts design. Next, this manufacturing process is also used to make water and air tight assemblies for electronics and electric cables.
Over-molding is categorized into 3 types: insert molding, double shot molding and co-injection molding.
The insert molding process explained.
INSERT MOLDING:
Insert molding is a process that requires an insert typically made of metal. Next, this insert has to be placed in the tool to let the plastic flow around it. Encapsulating the insert with plastic creates a single molded plastic piece that’s generally stronger than one created using secondary assembly.
Insert molding can be done through manual insert loading. In addition, this is generally a more cost-effective way to manufacture low-volume applications or complex parts. However, automated insert molding is a better choice for part consistency. It minimizes human error, improves efficiencies, and ensures optimal cycle times.
Other key cost and design benefits of insert molding include:
Elimination of secondary assembly operations such as snap fits, gluing, and the use of screws or fasteners.
Reduction in the number of required parts and streamlined logistics around part tracking, shipping and supplier consolidation.
Integration of design features not which are not possible by using a single material.
Insert molding is appropriate for a wide range of applications. Thus it is used for couplings, knobs with threaded fasteners and filters. As well as complex electrical components and specific solutions Davantech developed for its customers.
OVERMOLDING OR TWO-SHOT MOLDING:
Overmolding is a process that results in a seamless combination of multiple materials into a single part or product. In addition it typically includes a rigid plastic base component overlaid with a soft thermoplastic elastomer. Usually this soft plastic is TPE or TPR. Overmolding adds value in several ways. In addition, it lowers production costs. As a result the advantages of using overmolding are numerous:
It results in a soft anti slip grip that prevents dropping and at the same time it functions as a shock barrier to maximize product life.
We create visually attractive surfaces and branded color schemes that increase shelf appeal. In this way a nicer design provides a competitive advantage.
Over-molding reduces the number of required manufacturing steps and associated costs.
The overmolding process is extremely versatile. Common household items such as hand tools, toothbrushes and razors may have overmolded handles for better grip. In addition overmolding is also used to bond gaskets or seals to a plastic cover. Hence it is applicated in the manufacturing of electric cables to in-mold metal contacts and grommets.
Insert molding and overmolding are somewhat similar yet distinctly different forms of multi-material injection molding. It is important to talk to experts like Davantech in advance. In this ways your product design will have the best outcome for manufacturing your product in a cost efficient way.
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