For the production of molded parts, traditional injection molding is still the most relevant process in plastics processing. Compared to alternative manufacturing methods, such as 3D printing, injection molding is particularly convincing with its versatile performance, which enables the production of high-precision technical individual parts and complete assemblies both as prototypes and in series quality. For the most diverse industries, injection molding enables a unique range of manufacturable batch sizes as well as part variants.
Automotive, electronics, consumer goods or medical technology - injection molded components can be found in a diverse range of products. It is precisely because they can be used in so many different sectors and industries that a consistent level of quality and rapid delivery processes are all the more important. However, the latter are currently being jeopardized by recurring interruptions in supply chains. This is slowing down the economic recovery that began slowly after the onset of the Corona pandemic. To circumvent such transportation problems, one possible solution for many German companies is: We combine all production steps under one roof and strengthen the internal value chain.
Quality "Made in Germany" and port closures in China
If a port in China is closed, the effects are far-reaching. Companies' logistics and production are put to the test, as was the case with the port closures in Shenzhen (Yantian Port) and Zhejian (Ningbo Port Group). The consequences: Pre-products from Asia are missing, have long delivery times and/or are significantly more expensive.
A majority of German companies want to stick to supply chains - despite increasing risks posed by the pandemic, climate change, cyberattacks or geopolitical conflicts. A recent study by the Konrad Adenauer Foundation even concluded that Germany's gross domestic product could fall by ten percent if production were to be shifted back to the domestic market.
Of course, sticking to critical supply chains is not a permanent solution. In addition to greater diversification in procurement, increased warehousing and domestic sourcing in particular are part of a forward-looking strategy.
For this reason, in the current market situation, those companies that have not designed their strategic orientation of the past decades as just-in-time are future-proof. As a result, existing know-how was often lost, new technologies could not be implemented in processes that were still in place, and there was a shortage of production space.
"Sustainable value-added management instead of just-in-time delivery is the motto at VWH GmbH," says Andreas Klatt, Technical Manager at the specialist for special machines and toolmaking from Herschbach in the Westerwald. "Thanks to our decades of experience, we are able to fully support our customers in article design, the construction of prototypes and series molds, and the design and implementation of the injection molding process."
The focus on stable supply chain management is currently becoming increasingly important in the course of profitability considerations. Modern products, such as the plastic parts manufactured by VWH GmbH, often have critical components or complex materials. Their manufacture requires a high level of manufacturing expertise, which is ensured by focusing on in-house production. This strategy reveals two strengths, especially in the current market situation, through which external problems can be eliminated: Flexibility and crisis-proofing. Along the entire process chain, they give employees room in their daily work to drive one of VWH GmbH's greatest strengths - innovative spirit.
Turnkey solutions from the process linker and system supplier
"Starting with component design suitable for plastics, through mold construction and realization in plastic injection molding - VWH GmbH's experience and specific product knowledge of the customers enable demanding and highly innovative projects to be realized," explains Andreas Klatt.
Diverse challenges can arise during the injection molding process and the preceding planning. Uneven wall thicknesses and gradual transitions between thick and thin layers must be avoided in injection molded parts.
For this very reason, it is important that all gears mesh optimally. In order to design a seamless and error-free production process, VWH GmbH offers solutions for the integration of injection molding machines into fully automated processes. Even after installation, customers benefit from the full range of services, including consulting and machine training.
Injection molding in everyday life: A as in cap to Z as in toothbrush
The result is products such as connectors and electronic housings that are used in almost all electronic devices. Injection molded components are not only found hidden in technical devices; they are used in everyday life close to people. As toothbrushes, children's toys or cell phone covers. Cover caps for window fittings, scissor-laying caps and parts of the freewheel in e-bikes - these plastic parts are also produced by injection molding machines and innovative automation solutions from VWH GmbH. Not only in large series, but also in small series, which realize the production of a number of less than 1,000 pieces within a few days or weeks.
Focus on the future
Regardless of the number of units produced, it is currently more important than ever for the plastics processing industry to develop innovative products and services. Every single company has to deal with major socio-political issues. The environmental debate and climate protection must not be ignored. VWH GmbH is working hard with its employees to help shape the plastics industry in a sustainable way through innovation. And not only through in-house production.
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Automation solutions in injection molding
Innovative plastic injection molding in mold making