Alexei Volkov
The cost of moulding plastic varies depending on the complexity, size, and material of the mould. Simple moulds can cost between $1,000 and $6,000, while more complex moulds with multiple cavities or intricate designs can cost between $25,000 and $75,000 or more. The cost of the plastic itself also varies depending on the type of plastic being used, with common plastics like polypropylene or polyethylene costing between $1.50 and $3 per kg, and engineering plastics such as ABS or polycarbonate ranging from $3 to $5 per kg. In addition, the location of the mould manufacturer can affect the total cost, as off-site mould makers will charge extra for shipping and handling.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Cost of simple molds | $1,000 to $6,000 |
| Cost of complex molds | $25,000 to $75,000+ |
| Cost of the mold in the UK | £1,000 to £50,000+ |
| Cost per kg of common plastics | $1.50 to $3 |
| Cost per kg of engineering plastics | $3 to $5 |
| Cost per kg of thermoplastic pellets | $1 to $5 |
| Total cost of materials | $50,000 to $150,000 |
| Total labor cost | $100,000 to $300,000 |
| Total cost of injection molded process | $175,000 to $525,000 |
What You'll Learn
The cost of a simple mold
The cost of a simple plastic mould varies depending on the mould's complexity, size, material and location. Simple moulds without any complicated designs or shapes are single-cavity moulds and cost between $3,000 and $6,000. However, some sources state that simple moulds can cost as little as $1,000.
The cost of the mould is just one factor in the total cost of injection moulding. The price per part can range from £1 to £5 for small to medium production volumes. The cost of the plastic material also needs to be considered, with common plastics like polypropylene or polyethylene costing between $1.50 and $3 per kg, and engineering plastics such as ABS or polycarbonate ranging from $3 to $5 per kg. Thermoplastic pellets are cheaper, ranging from $1 to $5 per kilogram.
The location of the mould manufacturer can also affect the total cost. If the mould needs to be shipped to a different location, the manufacturer will charge extra for shipping and handling.
To get an accurate estimate of the cost of a simple mould, it is best to consult with a manufacturer. They will consider the specific requirements of the mould, including the materials used, the complexity of the design, and the number of cavities.
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The cost of a complex mold
The cost of a complex mould depends on a variety of factors, including the mould's complexity, size, material, and location of the manufacturer.
For complex moulds with multiple cavities or intricate designs, the cost can range from $25,000 to $75,000 or more. The price per part can also vary depending on the production volume, with small to medium production volumes ranging from £1 to £5 per part.
The cost of the mould itself is only one factor in the total cost of injection moulding. The total cost of materials, labour, and the injection moulding process can add up to a significant expense. For example, the cost of common plastics like polypropylene or polyethylene can range from $1.50 to $3 per kg, while engineering plastics such as ABS or polycarbonate can cost between $3 to $5 per kg.
Additionally, the location of the mould manufacturer can impact the total cost. If the mould needs to be shipped to a different location, the extra shipping and handling charges will increase the overall expense.
To get an accurate estimate for a complex mould, it is best to consult with a manufacturer who can consider the specific requirements and provide a quote based on the mould's complexity, size, and material.
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The cost of materials
The cost of the mould itself also depends on its complexity, size and material. Simple moulds cost between $1,000 and $6,000, whereas more complex moulds with multiple cavities or intricate designs can cost between $25,000 and $75,000 or more. The price per part can range from £1 to £5 for small to medium production volumes.
The total cost of materials for a plastic moulding project can range from $50,000 to $150,000. This includes the cost of the mould, the plastic materials, and any other necessary components. The final price will be determined by several factors, including the complexity of the design, the material used, and the quantity of material needed.
To reduce costs, it is important to consider the manufacturer's location, as off-site mould makers will charge extra for shipping and handling. Additionally, increasing production volume can help distribute overhead set-up and mould costs over a larger number of units, resulting in a lower per-unit cost.
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The cost of labour
For more complex moulds, the cost of labour can increase significantly. Moulds with multiple cavities or intricate designs can cost between $25,000 and $75,000 or more. This is because these moulds require more skilled labour and specialised equipment to create and produce.
In addition to the cost of materials, the labour involved in the injection moulding process itself can add to the overall cost. This includes the cost of operating the injection moulding machine, as well as any labour involved in finishing and assembling the final product.
The location of the mould manufacturer can also impact the cost of labour. Off-site plastic injection mould makers may charge extra for shipping and handling, which can increase the overall cost of the project.
Overall, the cost of labour for plastic moulding can range from a few thousand dollars to several hundred thousand dollars, depending on the complexity of the project and the specific requirements. It is important to consult with a manufacturer to get an accurate price estimation for a particular project.
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The cost of shipping and handling
The price per part can range from £1 to £5 for small to medium production volumes. The price per kg of material depends on the type of plastic being used. Common plastics like polypropylene or polyethylene can cost between $1.50 and $3 per kg, while engineering plastics such as ABS or polycarbonate can cost between $3 and $5 per kg. Thermoplastic pellets range in price from $1 to $5 per kg.
The final price will be determined by several factors, including the materials of the injection mould, the plastic materials of the moulded products, and the complexity of the plastic parts.
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Frequently asked questions
The cost of molding plastic varies depending on the type of plastic being used. Common plastics like polypropylene or polyethylene can cost between $1.50 and $3 per kg. Engineering plastics such as ABS or polycarbonate can be more expensive, ranging from $3 to $5 per kg.
The cost of the mold depends on its complexity, size and material. Simple molds can cost between $1,000 and $6,000, while more complex molds can cost between $25,000 and $75,000 or more.
Yes, if you are using an off-site plastic injection mold maker, you will be charged extra for shipping and handling.
The price per part can range from £1 to £5 for small to medium production volumes. The final price will also be determined by the materials used, the complexity of the plastic parts, and the quantity of material needed.
If you already have a prototype or drawing, you can take it to your manufacturer, who will consult with their engineers and other experts to quote a price for you.
