overmolding

Custom Overmolding – Soft-Touch Grips, Seals & Impact Protection

Materials: TPE, TPU, silicone over ABS, PC, Nylon, or metal. No MOQ. Lead time from 15 days. Free DFM analysis.

Overmolding is a manufacturing process. It involves taking an existing component (which can be made of plastic, metal, etc.) and injecting another material, usually molten plastic, over or around it. For example, in a toothbrush handle, a hard plastic base might have a soft, flexible plastic overmolded on it for better grip. This process can enhance functionality, like adding comfort or improving shock absorption, and also boost aesthetic appeal by combining different materials with various colors or textures. It reduces the need for extra assembly steps as multiple parts are combined into one.

What are the advantages of overmolding?

  • Performance Enhancement
  • Design Flexibility
  • Cost Reduction
  • Quality Improvement
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How Overmolding Works

Overmolding is a process where one material is molded over another to create a single part with two different materials. Here's how it works:
Base Part Creation: A base component, often made of metal or plastic, is placed into a mold.
Overmolding Process: A second material (usually plastic or rubber) is injected over the base part. This material bonds to the surface of the base part.
Cooling and Ejection: The part is cooled, and the finished overmolded part is ejected from the mold.
The result is a strong, durable part that combines the properties of both materials. Overmolding is often used to improve function, comfort, or appearance, such as adding grips, insulation, or waterproofing.

How Overmolding Works

Overmolding Capacity

Standards
Description
Maximum Part Size
400*200*100mm
Minimum Part Size
2*2*2mm
Part to Part Repeatability
±0.1 mm
Mold Cavity Tolerances
±0.02 mm
Undercuts
Y-type, L-type undercuts
Wall Thickness
0.5 mm to 12 mm
Draft
0.5° to 2°
Lead Time
Most orders can be completed within 15 working days

Overmolding Materials

Overmolding combines two materials into a single part, typically involving a substrate (base material) and an overmold (secondary material). The success of this process hinges on material compatibility, processing parameters, and application requirements.

ABSNylonPTFEPBTPVCPPPOMPEEKPEIPCPEPULDPEPMMA
PSTPEHPTPU

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Finishing Options for Overmolding

Finishing options for plastic injection molding are critical for enhancing the aesthetics, functionality, and durability of the molded parts.

Painting
A layer of paint is applied to the surface of the molded part to achieve a specific color, texture, or appearance.
Silk Screening
Description: A method of printing using a mesh screen to transfer ink onto the surface of the molded part.
Laser Etching or Engraving
Description: Laser technology is used to create detailed designs or markings on the surface of the molded part.
Pad Printing
Description: A printing technique used to transfer ink onto a curved or irregular surface.
Mold texturing
The molding surface is intentionally roughened or patterned, either through the mold design or by post-processing.
Heat Staking or Ultrasonic Welding
Description: Heat staking uses heat to melt plastic to join parts, while ultrasonic welding uses high-frequency vibrations to bond plastics together.

Get started with your custom Overmolding today.

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The Process of Our Overmolding Service

01

Upload a CAD File

Upload your 3D CAD drawings and provide the manufacturing process
02

Receive a quote

We will send you a quote within 2 business days
03

DFM & tool approval

Receive a comprehensive Design for Manufacturing analysis for approval before the construction of your tool begins
04

Receive T1 samples

Before starting production, we send T1 sample for your confirmation
05

Production & delivery

Once the sample is approved, we'll start the manufacturing process and deliver them to you
06

Reorder Parts

You can contact us to easily reorder parts.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between overmolding and insert molding?

Overmolding bonds a soft material (TPE/TPU/silicone) onto a rigid substrate (plastic or metal) in a single part. Insert molding encapsulates a pre-formed metal or ceramic insert into plastic. Both are offered at Shinzoft.

What material combinations work best for overmolding?

Common pairs: TPE over ABS or PC; TPU over Nylon; silicone over PC. We conduct material compatibility tests to ensure chemical or mechanical bonding.

Can you overmold onto metal parts?

Yes. We overmold TPE/TPU/silicone onto brass, aluminum, and stainless steel for waterproof seals, ergonomic grips, and anti-vibration components.

What is the maximum part size for overmolding?

Maximum part size is 400×200×100mm; minimum part size is 2×2×2mm.

Does overmolding eliminate secondary assembly?

Yes. Overmolding combines rigid and soft materials in one molding cycle, eliminating the need for adhesives, mechanical fasteners, or secondary bonding operations.

Do you have a minimum order quantity for overmolding?

No MOQ. We support everything from prototype runs to high-volume production.
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Tel:+86 0752-3336216
Email:Sales@shinzoft.com