What is Insert Molding? Insert molding is an injection molding technique that involves injecting a plastic material around a plastic or metal insert (but can also include ceramic or other materials) placed in a mold cavity. The insert is pre-placed in the mold cavity, after which the plastic is injected. These inserts, including threaded metal inserts for enhanced durability, provide specific mechanical or electrical properties to the final product. For example, metal inserts such as aluminum or stainless steel add tensile strength and conductivity, making insert injection molding ideal for highly durable and functional parts. On cooling, this forms a solid part that is strong and durable. XC Machining plastic insert molding services allow you to make a strong and permanent bond between the insert and molded plastic.
Get Quote
Insert Molding Service Custom insert molding services for high-quality prototypes and on-demand parts. Get online quotes at a competitive price and short lead time. Rapid Tooling Production as fast as 2 weeks.
High-Quality Parts
Certified factories and strict inspections ensure precise, consistent quality. Engineering Support
Our experienced experts streamline the process from prototyping to production. Fast Lead Time
Strong supply chains and certified factories ensure faster production and delivery. Get Quote
Prototyping - Rapid Tooling Get high-quality prototype molds in days for fast design validation and functional testing. Our affordable aluminum tooling helps reduce costs and minimize production risks.
Production – Production Tooling Durable tool-steel molds built for high-volume production and long-term performance, tailored to your requirements.
Insert Molding Tooling Solutions XC Machining also offers customized insert molding services, assisting with design optimization, material selection, & tooling for complex geometries to meet your unique project needs from concept to production
PC
Materials for
Insert Molding
Insert Molding
Plastics Metals
ABS Known for its exceptional impact resistance and clarity, PC is widely used in applications requiring transparency and durability, such as protective gear and automotive components
ABS
PC
PMMA (Acrylic)
POM
Magnesium
PMMA (Acrylic)
POM
Magnesium
Flame Retardant Transparent PC ✓
PC Yellowish White ✓
Food Grade PC-Transparent ✓
PC+GF30 Black ✓
Standards Description
Maximum Part Size 800×1000×400mm
31.50×39.37×15.75 in.
31.50×39.37×15.75 in.
Minimum Part Size 2×2×2mm
0.08×0.08×0.08in
0.08×0.08×0.08in
Substrate Wall Thickness From 0.5 to 3mm
From 0.20 to 0.12 in.
From 0.20 to 0.12 in.
Tolerance +/- 0.025 mm
+/- 0.00098 in.
+/- 0.00098 in.
Inserts Inserts can be female and male. They both can improve a product’s appearance and utility.
Mold Validation Provide T0, T1, T2 samples before mass production
Inspection and Certification Options First Article Inspection,
ISO 9001, ISO 13485
ISO 9001, ISO 13485
Capabilities These guidelines will help improve part manufacturability, reduce lead time, and improve the part aesthetics. You can check the following standard design considerations:
Lead Time From mold making to sample delivery:
15-45 business days
15-45 business days
Advantages of Insert Molding Insert molding reduces assembly and labor costs, enhances part strength and reliability, and allows for multi-material and complex component integration.
Eliminate assembly: Insert molded parts do not require assembly because there is only one manufacturing process. Reduce costs: The removal of the assembly process reduces the cost of the insert molding process compared to the standard injection molding. Reduced part size and weight: Insert molded parts that weigh less than all-metal parts. Improve part strength: Insert plastic molding securely integrates metal inserts, enhancing wear resistance and structural integrity compared to traditional assembly methods.
Insert Molding vs Overmolding Insert molding integrates pre-formed inserts, often metal, into a single molding process, creating a unified part. Overmolding, a multi-step process, molds one material, typically a TPE, over a rigid substrate. Insert molding offers single-shot efficiency for enhanced strength and reduced assembly. Overmolding excels in creating parts with varied textures and functionalities, like a toothbrush with a rigid core and soft grip. Here’s a video to explain the vital differences between these valuable processes.
Get a Quote
Frequently Asked
Questions
Got questions about materials, tolerances, or lead times? Here’s what customers ask most before placing their first order — and if yours isn’t listed, our engineers are one message away.
Yes. XC Machining ships CNC machined and manufactured parts to 120+ countries via DHL, FedEx, and UPS with full tracking and customs documentation included.
Let’s bring your vision to life Upload your CAD files and project details below — our engineers reply with a detailed quote and free DFM feedback within one business day.