Advantages of Gas Assisted Injection Molding

For jobs that require technology beyond conventional injection molding, Ferriot’s gas-assist molding technology — coupled with Ferriot’s expertise in design — allows us to create products previously impossible.

Whether it’s gas-assist molding, structural foam, or the complex engineering of polymers, Ferriot’s expertise is in coupling the right technology with just the right custom design and engineering of thermoplastic olefin systems.

Gas-assisted injection molding (GAIM) is a specialized form of injection molding that involves injecting pressurized gas into the mold cavity to create hollow parts. Here are some of the advantages of gas-assisted injection molding: 

1. Reduced material usage: One of the primary benefits of gas-assisted injection molding is that it can help reduce the amount of material needed to create a part. By creating hollow sections within the part, it is possible to reduce its weight without sacrificing strength or durability. 
2. Improved surface finish: Gas-assisted injection molding can also help to improve the surface finish of a part. By using a gas channel to push the plastic against the mold wall, the resulting part has a smoother and more uniform surface. 
3. Elimination of sink marks: Sink marks are areas of depression that can occur on the surface of a molded part due to uneven cooling. Gas-assisted injection molding can help to eliminate sink marks by using the gas to create a hollow section within the part, which allows for more even cooling. 
4. Faster cycle times: Gas-assisted injection molding can also help to reduce cycle times by allowing the part to cool more quickly. Because the gas creates a hollow section within the part, it can be thinner and therefore cools more quickly than a solid part. 
5. Design flexibility: Gas assist injection molding offers a great deal of design flexibility. By creating hollow sections within a part, it is possible to create more complex shapes and features than would be possible with solid parts. Additionally, gas-assisted injection molding can be used to create parts with thicker sections in certain areas while maintaining a thinner overall profile. 

Overall, gas-assisted injection molding processes offer a highly versatile solution that offers a number of benefits over traditional injection molding. From improved surface finish and reduced material usage to faster cycle times and increased design flexibility, gas-assisted injection molding is an excellent choice for many applications. 

Call us to discuss whether gas-assist molding or other technologies can turn your ambitious ideas into reality.

FAQ

What is gas assist injection molding?

Gas assist injection molding (GAIM) is an advanced injection molding process designed for creating complex, large, or cosmetically appealing parts. It involves the use of pressurized gas, typically nitrogen, to assist in the molding process. This method is particularly beneficial for parts that require design flexibility, reduced weight, and improved surface finishes.