From Beginner to Pro: Master OEM Plastic Parts in Just 10 Minutes

Plastic parts are essential components in various industries, ranging from automotive and electronics to household appliances and medical devices. They are produced according to the specifications provided by the original company, ensuring the final product meets exact requirements for performance, durability, and appearance

The Two Main Material Types of Plastic

When it comes to manufacturing OEM plastic parts, choosing the right material is crucial. The two main categories of plastics used are thermosetting plastics and thermoplastics. Each has distinct properties that make them suitable for different applications.

• Thermosetting Plastics

Thermosetting plastics, also known as thermosets, are materials that undergo a chemical change when heated, hardening into a permanent shape. Once set, they cannot be remolded or softened by reheating. This property makes thermosetting plastics ideal for high-temperature applications, as they retain their form and strength even under heat. Common examples of thermosetting plastics include epoxy, phenolic, and polyester resins.

Thermosets are widely used in industries requiring durable and heat-resistant components, such as electrical insulation, automotive parts, and protective coatings. Their rigidity and stability make them a preferred choice for applications where structural integrity is critical.

• Thermoplastics

Thermoplastics, on the other hand, soften when heated and harden upon cooling, allowing them to be reshaped multiple times. This flexibility in processing makes thermoplastics ideal for a variety of OEM applications, including injection molding, extrusion, and 3D printing. Common types of thermoplastics include polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), and acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS).

Thermoplastics are popular in industries such as packaging, automotive, and consumer products because they offer a wide range of properties, from rigid to flexible, depending on the formulation. Their recyclability also makes them an eco-friendly option for many manufacturing processes.

Common Raw Materials of Plastic

Polyethylene (PE)	PE is known for its high toughness, flexibility, and resistance to chemicals. It is commonly used in packaging, containers, and plastic bags.
Polypropylene (PP)	PP exhibits excellent resistance to heat and chemical solvents. It is widely used in automotive parts, food containers, and household products.
Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC)	PVC is a versatile plastic known for its durability, resistance to chemicals, and low cost. It is used in construction, pipes, wire insulation, and vinyl records.
Polystyrene (PS)	PS is lightweight, rigid, and can be easily molded. It is used in disposable cutlery, packaging, and insulation.
Polycarbonate (PC)	PC is transparent, impact-resistant, and has high heat tolerance. It is used in eyewear lenses, safety shields, and electronic components.
Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET)	PET is a strong and lightweight plastic commonly used for beverage bottles, food packaging, and synthetic fibers.
Polyurethane (PU)	PU is a versatile plastic with properties ranging from rigid to flexible. It is used in furniture, footwear, and insulation.
Polymethyl Methacrylate (PMMA)	PMMA, also known as acrylic or plexiglass, is transparent, lightweight, and offers excellent optical properties. It is used in windows, signage, and displays.
Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS)	ABS offers robust mechanical strength and exceptional impact resistance, making it suitable for applications requiring toughness and resilience. Used in industries ranging from automotive to consumer goods due to its reliability and versatility.

Plastic Production Process Flowchart 

The plastic production process involves selecting raw materials, forming plastic parts through methods like extrusion or injection molding, and conducting quality control (QC) checks to ensure specifications are met. After QC approval, the products are packaged and prepared for distribution, ensuring consistent quality and reliability.

What is Plastic Injection Molding?

Plastic injection allows for mass production of parts with complex shapes and high precision. The process can be broken down into several key steps:

1. Clamping

The mold is closed under high pressure, ensuring the two halves are tightly sealed. This step is crucial for keeping the mold in place during the injection process.

2. Injection

The molten plastic material is injected into the mold cavity through a nozzle. The plastic is heated and melted before being forced into the mold under high pressure.

3. Holding Pressure

As the plastic cools and solidifies inside the mold, it tends to shrink. Additional plastic is injected to maintain pressure and prevent defects such as sink marks.

4. Cooling

The mold remains closed while the plastic part cools and solidifies. The cooling time varies depending on the material and the thickness of the part.

5. Ejection

Once the part has fully cooled and hardened, the mold is opened, and the finished part is ejected using ejector pins.

     6. Post-Processing

After ejection, the part may undergo additional steps such as trimming excess material, cleaning, and any necessary finishing touches to achieve the final desired quality.

Cost of OEM Plastic parts

When seeking a quote for OEM plastic parts, providing a complete set of details can speed up the process and ensure accuracy. Essential information includes part drawings, required quantities, material type, color, surface finish, and any necessary post-processing. 

Mold costs for OEM plastic parts can vary significantly, typically ranging from around USD 5,000 to USD 50,000 depending on complexity and customization.

Likewise, the per-unit cost of the finished parts can fluctuate based on the part’s size, design, and specifications. More intricate designs or larger parts generally lead to higher pricing, while simpler or smaller parts may reduce costs. These factors are essential to consider when budgeting for OEM plastic production.

Common Applications of Plastic parts

Plastic parts have wide-ranging applications across various industries due to their adaptability and cost-effectiveness. In the automotive industry, OEM plastic parts are used for dashboards, interior components, and bumpers. Consumer electronics rely on plastic housings and enclosures, while medical devices incorporate plastic for items like syringe bodies and diagnostic equipment casings. The packaging industry uses plastic extensively for containers and protective films and household items—from kitchen utensils to storage solutions—benefit from durable, customizable plastic materials. This versatility makes OEM plastic parts a practical choice for industries requiring reliable, high-quality components.

At Joesmen, we specialize in delivering high-quality OEM plastic parts tailored to your specific needs. Whether you’re looking for durable components for automotive, electronics, medical devices, or consumer goods, our team is here to help. We guide you through every step—from material selection and mold design to precise production planning—ensuring your plastic parts meet all performance and quality standards. Reach out today to discuss your project, and let us show you how our expertise in plastic solutions can drive value for your business. Let’s bring your ideas to life with the perfect plastic parts for your application!