When considering which manufacturing method is best for your application or components, two of the most popular processes include die casting and injection molding. The process of injection molding and die casting is similar, the main difference is the material used. And they have their own advantages and disadvantages. Which one to choose? If you have determined which kind of material to use, the answer is apparent, but if you do not know which material to use, you should learn more about your components and these two techniques.

Main Difference

Die casting process uses metal raw materials, and injection molding uses plastic or polymers.

Benefits of Die Casting

–> High accuracy and tighter tolerance

–> Complex designs can be cast easily

–> Die castings are stronger, stiffer, more stable and more heat resistant than plastic injection moldings

–> Metal castings are completely resistant to ultra-violet rays, weathering and stress-cracking in the presence of reagents

Benefits of Injection Molding

–> Plastic molded parts may cheaper based on a unit volume

–> Plastic injection molding parts are good electrical insulators

–> Higher flexibility in the molding process

–> Can accommodate different plastic or polymer materials

–> Fillers can be used in plastic molds to increase strength

Choosing between Die Casting and Injection Molding

Your component’s functionality along with time constraints and/or budget concerns will determine which manufacturing method is best for your requirements. Die casting is ideal for complex geometries that require short lead times, metal cast components provide longevity and durability. Labor and material costs are reduced with injection molding and secondary machining can increase injection molding costs.