What are Protolabs’ injection molding capabilities?
We offer plastic and liquid silicone rubber molding as well as overmolding and insert molding in low-volume quantities of 25 to 10,000+ pieces. Standard lead times as fast as 7 days. Rapid injection molding helps product developers get prototypes and production parts that are suitable for functional testing or final use within days.
What is unique about the Protolabs’ process?
We have automated the process of quoting, designing, and manufacturing molds based on customer-supplied 3D CAD part models. Due to this automation, and running software on ultra-fast compute clusters, we typically cut the manufacturing time for the initial parts to one-third that of conventional methods.
What is the typical cost of injection-molded parts with Protolabs?
Prices start around $1,495, depending on part geometry and complexity. The best way to estimate cost is to upload your model to our website to receive an interactive quote within hours. Protolabs is able to create your mold at a fraction of the price of traditional injection molding because of our proprietary analysis software, automated processes, and use of aluminum molds.
How does the quoting process work?
Getting an interactive quote will show materials and finishes available, highlight any potential issues with manufacturing your part, and show quick-turn and delivery options available (dependent on your geometry). You’ll see price implications of your material and quantity selections in real time—no need to re-quote. See a sample ProtoQuote here.
What resins can (or should) I use?
Designers should consider application-specific material properties like tensile strength, impact resistance or ductility, mechanical characteristics, molding properties, and cost of the resin when selecting a resin. If you need help selecting material, please feel free to call us.
What are Protolabs’ stocked resins for injection molding?
We house more than 100 thermoplastic resins and also accept many customer-supplied resins. See the full list of Protolabs’ stocked resins.
What are Protolabs’ capabilities? What size can my part be?
For information on part size and other considerations for injection molding, please see our design guidelines.
Why should I buy a molded part rather than a 3D-printed part?
Molded parts from Protolabs will have the true properties of the material you select. With the true material properties and improved surface finishes, injection-molded parts are suitable for functional testing and end-use production.
