How Much Injection Molding Costs

The price per part using injection molding can sometimes be as low as a cent. However, optimizing costs is essential, with upfront costs from mold creation starting at around €1,000 and potentially much more. Design complexity, part size, material choice, and production volume significantly influence the injection mold cost.

Learn about the various cost elements of injection molding, including machine, mold, and material costs. We will also provide some tips for lowering overall injection molding costs.

Understanding Injection Molding

Injection molding is a widely used manufacturing process for producing plastic parts and components. It involves injecting molten plastic into a mold, which is then cooled and ejected to form the desired part.

This method is favored across various industries, including automotive, aerospace, medical, and consumer goods, due to its high efficiency, precision, and cost-effectiveness. The ability to produce complex shapes with excellent repeatability makes injection molding an ideal choice for mass production.

Cost of Injection Molding Machines

The cost of injection molding machines varies significantly (type, size, cargo, brand, etc.).

Hydraulic Machines are the most common and traditionally the least expensive option, ranging from €15,000 to €50,000 for standard machines.

Electric Machines: Offering precision and energy efficiency, electric machines typically cost between €30,000 and €100,000.

Hybrid Machines: Combining the benefits of hydraulic and electric systems, hybrid machines usually cost €25,000 to €80,000.

Due to the high upfront costs and expertise required, many people opt for on-demand manufacturing services like MakerVerse.

Cost of Injection Molds

Injection molds are a critical component of the injection molding process. The main cost drivers for this fixed cost are complexity and durability. Different factors, such as design complexity, material choice, and production volume, impact the cost of creating an injection mold.

Simple Molds: A single-cavity mold starts at €1,000 for small, simple parts. Aluminum molds, which are good for hundreds of parts, are cheaper.

Complex or High-Quality Molds: For larger or more intricate parts, complex molds can start at several thousand euros up to approximately €10,000. The plastic injection mold cost varies significantly depending on the complexity of the mold design, the materials used, and the production volume. Molds made of steel are also considerably more expensive than aluminum but are much more durable and can work for 100,000 parts or more. Electrical discharge machining (EDM) is often used to create these intricate molds, as it provides high accuracy and is compatible only with metal molds.

When you request an injection molding quote from MakerVerse, the cost of the mold is included in the overall cost of production.

Injection Molding Material Costs

The cost of materials used in injection molding depends on the type, grade, volume, and supplier.

Some of the most common materials include:

• Polyethylene (PE): Typically costs around €1.50 to €2.50 per kilogram.

• Polypropylene (PP): Generally priced between €1.20 and €2.20 per kilogram.

• Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS) Usually ranges from €1.80 to €3.00 per kilogram.

• Material prices often fluctuate, but up-to-date prices can be found here. 

Material selection can significantly impact the overall cost. For instance, a high-performance polymer might cost €5.00 per kilogram or more, whereas a standard thermoplastic is considerably less. Selecting the right material involves balancing cost with the required properties of the final product.

Factors Affecting Injection Molding Cost

Several factors influence the cost of injection molding, making it essential to understand each component to manage expenses effectively. The complexity of the mold is a primary cost driver, with intricate designs requiring more time and resources to produce. Production volume also plays a crucial role; higher volumes can spread the mold cost over more units, reducing the cost per part. Material selection impacts the mold and the final product, with different plastics varying in price and performance. Additionally, equipment costs, including the type and size of the injection molding machine, contribute to the overall injection molding cost. Understanding these factors can help in making informed decisions to optimize costs.

The Injection Molding Process

The injection molding process consists of several key stages, each critical to the final product’s quality and cost. It begins with the design stage, where a CAD model of the part is created. This model is then used to develop the mold during the tooling stage. Molds can be made from various materials, such as steel, aluminum, or 3D-printed plastic, offering different benefits and costs. The material selection stage involves choosing the appropriate plastic, which affects the final product’s cost and properties. Finally, the production stage involves injecting molten plastic into the mold, cooling it, and ejecting the finished part. Each stage must be carefully managed to ensure efficiency and cost-effectiveness.

Calculating Injection Molding Costs

Calculating injection molding costs requires a comprehensive understanding of several factors. The mold cost is typically the largest expense, ranging from €100 for simple molds to €100,000 or more for complex, multi-cavity molds. Material costs vary based on the type and quantity of plastic used, with high-performance polymers costing significantly more than standard thermoplastics. Labor costs depend on the complexity of the mold and the production volume, while equipment costs can vary based on the type and size of the injection molding machine. Considering all these factors, you can accurately estimate the total injection molding cost and identify areas for potential savings.

Production Volume and Costs

Production volume has a significant impact on injection molding costs. High-volume production often requires more expensive molds and equipment, increasing the initial investment. However, as the production volume increases, the cost per unit decreases, making injection molding a cost-effective option for large-scale production. Conversely, low-volume production may involve simpler molds and equipment, reducing upfront costs. However, the cost per unit tends to be higher due to the lower production volume. Understanding the relationship between production volume and costs can help you plan and optimize your injection molding projects for maximum efficiency and cost savings.

Tips to Lower Injection Molding Costs

1. DESIGN OPTIMIZATION

Design for manufacturability (DFM) is crucial. Insert molding is a strategy that enhances product strength and reduces costs by integrating metal inserts directly into plastic parts during plastic injection molding. Simplifying part designs to minimize material usage or mold complexity can lead to significant cost savings.

For example, reducing wall thickness and incorporating ribs or gussets for strength can lower material costs.

2. MATERIAL SELECTION

Choose cost-effective materials that don’t compromise on quality.  

Our engineering experts are happy to consult you on the best-fitting material for your project to ensure the price and performance you need.

3. WORKING WITH EXPERIENCED SUPPLIERS

Collaborate with knowledgeable manufacturers. Experienced partners can provide valuable insights into cost-saving opportunities and ensure high-quality production.

Start Your Injection Molding Project

Each element plays a vital role in the overall cost structure. At MakerVerse, we’re here to help you get high-quality parts at the price you need. We offer low-cost injection molding as a key offering to ensure affordability without compromising on quality.

We specialize in providing high-quality injection molding services. Whether you need simple parts or complex assemblies, MakerVerse has the expertise and capabilities to deliver cost-effective solutions.