Rubber molding services are a good solution for businesses that need custom parts for various applications. At Clark Rubber and Plastic, we produce customized rubber components that match the dimensions and production value of each project. To create these products, we use materials like natural rubber, neoprene, and nitrile. Here’s more information about the molding process and the materials and equipment we use:

Rubber Molding Process

Rubber molding is the process of turning raw materials into unique shapes that serve a functional purpose in many applications. Manufacturers in the automotive, solar, and home appliance industries use rubber parts as seals, gaskets, tubing, and anti-vibration pads. The molding process begins by selecting a rubber type and adding it to a high-heat chamber. In this chamber, the rubber melts to become more pliable. Once the melted rubber has an even consistency, it enters a mold or die, where it is formed into a unique shape. After the molded rubber cools, manufacturers cut it to size to match the project’s requirements. The final rubber components are then ready to be shipped to the customer.

Rubber Types

Depending on the specifications of your project, you can choose from uncured rubber materials like natural, liquid silicone, ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM), nitrile, and neoprene rubber. Some rubber types, like EPDM and neoprene, are more resistant to heat and chemicals. These characteristics make the material ideal for creating components that will be used in engines and environments exposed to extreme weather. Natural rubber has significant rebound resilience and flexibility, making it useful for products like seals and gaskets. If you are unsure which rubber is most suitable for your project, our team will recommend rubber types that will resist damage, offer flexibility, and remain durable over time.

Colorants

To create a fully customized rubber product, you can select a colorant. Manufacturers add the colorant to the prepared rubber before heating it to confirm the materials melt and combine evenly. This process results in a solid-colored rubber product that matches your business’s branding or the intended application.

Melting Chambers

After combining colorants and uncured rubber materials, manufacturers pour the mixture into a hopper that leads to the heating chamber. While in the chamber, the materials are heated until they melt and are ready to be placed into the mold. These machines may have dryer components that keep moisture away from the rubber as it melts, preventing contamination. 

Molds

Rubber molds are typically made from metal materials to confirm the melted rubber is held firmly in place as it cools. Some molding methods include injection, compression, and transfer. Our team will recommend a molding process that matches your product type to make the production as efficient as possible. The mold may be designed to produce a single part or multiple components at once, with specific dimensions for each project. 

Explore Rubber Molding Services

Clark Rubber and Plastic offers molding services to companies in various industries. We use computer numeric control equipment to make sure your products are as precise as possible. This equipment also allows us to produce a high volume of rubber components in a short amount of time. Contact our team today to learn more about our molding processes for rubber and plastic parts. 

Customized orders for appliances, consumer products, or automotive can be created at Clark Rubber and Plastic. Using natural and synthetic rubbers, we produce industry-specific parts in high or low-production quantities and of high quality. Modern technology has improved rubber production and has added synthetic rubber fitting specific needs including weather and chemical resistance. Here are custom projects to review when making rubber molding products:

Different Types of Rubber Molding

Here at Clark Rubber and Plastic, we produce rubber molding in three ways at our factories: injection, transfer, and compression molding. With our dedicated team of professionals, we can work with your business and take custom orders. We service many industries including solar, automotive, appliance, and more. Here are three types of custom rubber molding applications from Clark Rubber and Plastic: 

Solar

Solar panels are exposed to harsh elements, including UV rays, storms, extreme temperatures, and more. We use a specific rubber type, ethylene propylene diene (EPDM), for our solar panel products. Our production processes include injection and compression molding, to fit the needs and design of each part in these solar farms. This increases the efficiency and durability of the panels.

Each part, like rubber cable entry seals, fills a specific role in the solar panel. They offer a protective barrier for the cable going into the panel. Parts like this need to be durable and resistant to weather. We use a compression and transfer molding process to create this part with our precise and quality process. 

Automotive

The automotive industry has various parts, such as hoses, seals, gaskets, engine mounts, and bumpers. These products fit specific measurements and operate in different environments. They serve specific functions, like transferring hot fluids. Products like hoses for the cooling system are durable rubber parts that will not degrade when running corrosive and hot coolant.

Clark Rubber and Plastic uses quality rubber and precise equipment to produce automotive parts in each application, like engine mounts, that need shock absorption. Engine mounts need durability from the weight of the motor shifting during use and resistance to water, mud, and other mediums. We use the right rubber, natural or synthetic, with the most effective processes. This includes our injection, transfer, or compression method to produce each product.    

Appliance and Commercial Use

Appliances, including washing machines, may use custom rubber molding products. We can produce tight-fitting seals and grommets that keep the machine water sealed. Most appliances like fridges, dishwashers, and toasters can use rubber molding to protect power cables from damage and wear. Producing products for new appliances will require reliable and effective components, such as tubing and cords. Our team of experts will provide your latest appliances with durable, water-resistant, and energy-efficient products.

Contact Clark Rubber and Plastic For Molding

Clark Rubber and Appliance produces products for many industries, including military, medical, lighting, and more. We provide window trims, fences, bumpers, and more. Our team also adheres to the standards of the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) and Rubber Manufacturers Association. Contact our team today to learn more about rubber molds and how we can customize your order.

Extrusion molding can be used to make pipes and tubing, tracks, hoses, and drinking straws. Clark Rubber and Plastic offers two versatile material options for extrusion molding. Learn more about rubber and plastic extrusion, which options are right for your project, and how to use extrusion services:

Extrusion Process

Extrusion molding is a manufacturing process where a material is softened or melted and then pushed through a mold. After it cools, the shaped material is cut to the desired length for the final product. This type of molding works well with high-volume production and for tube-shaped items like rods, siding, or weather stripping. Clark Rubber and Plastic provides plastic and rubber extrusion services with cutting-edge technology for high-quality results.  

Rubber Extrusion 

Rubber extrusion is when rubber material is used in the extrusion process and molded into the desired shape. This is often used for products like weather strips and gaskets. Unvulcanized rubber is loaded into the extruder and forced through the shaped die under high pressure. The rubber takes on the shape of the die and is then vulcanized to harden it and add durability. Different types of rubber are used depending on the product’s requirements. Clark Rubber and Plastic has a facility set up to use natural rubber, neoprene, nitrile, and other rubber materials. Rubber-extruded products can be recycled at the end of their useful life, reducing waste. 

Plastic Extrusion 

The plastic extrusion process takes melted plastic and pressurizes it through a die. The extruded shape is then cooled with cooling rolls or water baths to solidify the product. Plastic extrusion is a versatile, high-volume manufacturing process that is suitable for pipes, fencing, deck rails, or window frames. The raw materials for plastic extrusion are typically plastic pellets that are loaded into a hopper. Additional additives like fillers and coloring are then added before the material is moved forward, heated, and shaped. Clark Rubber and Plastic’s extrusion services can produce a range of shapes, sizes, thicknesses, and hardness to fit your needs. 

Differences Between Plastic and Rubber Extrusion 

Plastic and rubber extrusion have a similar process but have final results with different properties. Rubber extrusion creates more flexible products with elasticity, even after the product has been cooled in the final stage. Products from plastic extrusion are rigid and may become deformed if you try to stretch them. Plastic is extruded at a higher temperature than rubber. Products from plastic extrusion are found in the solar, construction, automotive, and medical industries. Rubber-extruded products are used in appliances and electrical work. 

Extrusion Services From Clark Rubber and Plastic 

Extrusion molding is a flexible production option that often saves time and costs because the final product doesn’t always require post-production finishing. The continuous process allows a large amount of parts to be created quickly without requiring the multiple-step drafting process of other molding options. Extrusion also has some sustainable properties since the discarded material can be reused, and the finished items are often recyclable. Clark Rubber and Plastic handles are capable of high and low production needs with our cutting-edge facility. Contact us today to learn how we can fulfill your needs. 

When manufacturers design products and machinery that require intricate pieces, they use the versatile rubber molding process to create them. Clark Rubber & Plastic uses this process to create custom parts for a range of industries. Here’s more information about the molding process and how it works:

Molding Overview

Rubber molding is a manufacturing process that creates custom three-dimensional parts. It involves designing mold cavities into which liquid rubber is injected and set to harden into shape. Rubber molding excels at creating specialty parts with intricate designs that adhere to narrow tolerances. Clark Rubber & Plastic offers rubber part-making services for automotive, appliance, military, solar, and consumer applications. 

Molding Process

Rubber part manufacturing begins by creating a mold in the shape of the final part. Some of our clients who use digital design software, including AutoCAD, SolidWorks, and Catia, send us their product specifications to expedite the mold design process. 

We offer molding processes that suit multiple applications and production requirements. Compression molding forms parts by placing raw rubber into an open mold to be squeezed into shape. Injection molding involves melting rubber and injecting it into a closed mold to harden. Transfer molding combines these two processes. We use modern injection machinery to produce parts in large capacities, which enables timely production schedules for small and large orders.

After the rubber material hardens in the mold, we inspect the finished part using specialty equipment.  Inspection prevents defects and enforces quality control during batch productions. 

Molding Materials

The intended use of the finished part informs which materials are chosen for molding. We offer natural and synthetic rubbers, including neoprene, nitrile, EPDM, and SBR. We also offer Viton®, which is a proprietary seal appropriate for gaskets, valves, and pumps. Our staff helps clients select rubber materials based on the needs of their project. 

Specialized rubber molding services turn raw materials into usable consumer products. These processes craft rubber into small and large components like gaskets and rubber mats. Molding services are used in many industries, like automotive, solar, and home appliance manufacturing. Here is more information about custom molding services and how businesses can use them:

Specialized Rubber Molding Services

The rubber molding process is used to create three-dimensional products . The molds are custom-made for each product based on the customer’s specifications. These molds can create products in high and low production quantities. The types of raw materials used in injection molding include natural rubber, neoprene, nitrile, EPDM, SBR, and fluorocarbon rubber. These rubber products are melted at high temperatures to prepare them to be injected into the custom mold requested by the client. Customers can choose the rubber material that best aligns with their product goals and company values.

The molding machine, or the horizontal press, holds the mold in place while the rubber is injected. This machine can exert up to 400 tons of clamping force, which helps fabricate parts with tight tolerances and exceptional finishes. After the rubber has set into its specialized shape, manufacturers use durometer gauges to test the hardness of the rubber. The hardness reading indicates the final product’s ability to withstand damage from impact and friction. Manufacturers use optical comparators to inspect the surface quality of the final product, checking for defects and dimensional accuracy.

Industries That Use Rubber Injection Molding

Many industries use rubber mold production to create prototypes that evolve into high-level manufacturing operations. These products range from small gaskets and grommets to major sealing systems and motor housings. The automotive industry uses molded rubber as weather stripping on doors and windows. They also use rubber hoses and seals within the engine area. Manufacturers in the solar and alternative energy industries use molded rubber gaskets to fill the gaps between solar cells. These gaskets seal the panels, making them waterproof and resistant to other elements.

Home appliance producers use rubber molding to create specialized parts that protect various machinery and electrical components. These rubber parts protect the appliances from moisture, dust, and other potential contaminants that could cause premature wear. The rubber also protects appliance users from electrical shock and contact injuries. Industries that use molded rubber include the medical, military, and industrial sectors. Companies that use design software and file formats like AutoCAD, SolidWorks, and Catia can send their product specifications directly to manufacturers to make the production process more efficient.

Explore Specialized Rubber Molding Services

Clark Rubber and Plastic offers customizable molding services to help your business create high-quality products. We provide a range of rubber materials to help your molded product meet your company’s goals and preferences. We also offer rubber extrusion services to produce various profiles, shapes, and forms. Our molding and extrusion processes align with the safety and quality standards of the Rubber Manufacturers Association. Contact us today with information about your project to receive a free quote.

At Clark Rubber and Plastic, our rubber products go through a specific process to make sure they are dependable and durable. We want our customers to understand how the rubber molding process works and where you can use them. Here are some methods of how rubber molding is created: 

Molding Basics

Molding is a versatile manufacturing technique that precisely creates complex rubber and plastic parts for various industries. The process often involves molding raw rubber or plastic materials into a desired form or shape. This mold, usually made of metal, defines the final product’s characteristics and purpose.

Rubber Molding Processes

Several rubber molding processes are designed for specific applications and production requirements. Compression molding, injection molding, and transfer molding are some common techniques. Compression molding involves placing raw material into an open mold. Injection molding inserts molten material into a closed mold, and transfer molding combines elements of both.

Material Selection and Preparation

Choosing the right material is beneficial in the molding process, and various elastomers and plastics are available. Each type offers different properties, such as flexibility, durability, and heat resistance. Before molding begins, the chosen material is prepared, often in the form of pellets or sheets, and then fed into the molding machine.

Molding Machine and Process

Molding machines can consist of a heated barrel, where the raw material is melted and placed into a mold where the material is injected or compressed. The machine applies pressure and heat to shape the material according to the mold’s specifications. This helps make sure the final product is consistent and uniform.

Precision in Molding of Rubber

Precision is significant in this type of molding, especially when manufacturing parts for industries with specific quality standards like automotive and solar. Consistent dimensions, material distribution, and surface finish are key for the functionality and longevity of the end product. Advanced molding technologies and quality control measures are used to achieve and maintain this precision.

Quality Control and Inspection

After the parts are molded, they undergo a thorough inspection to make sure they meet our specified standards. This may involve dimensional checks, visual inspections, and material property testing. By implementing quality control measures, we manufacturers can increase the reliability and performance of the rubber and plastic components.

Applications Across Industries

Rubber molding can be found in applications across diverse industries. You can find it contributing to the production of components used in solar panels, automotive systems, household appliances, and more. The versatility of the process allows for the creation of complex designs and custom solutions tailored to the unique requirements of each industry.

Rubber Molding with Clark Rubber and Plastic

At Clark Rubber and Plastic, we offer various rubber molding products and continue to include new technologies. We can provide natural rubber, Neoprene, Nitrile, Viton®, EPDM, and SBR. Our team can assist you in choosing the right molding for your specific needs and projects. Contact us today to learn more about our moldings and what equipment we use to help deliver quality results to our customers. 

In the diverse world of rubber manufacturing, comprehending the nuances between different types of rubber can greatly benefit various industries. At Clark Rubber & Plastic, we often encounter questions about the differences between vulcanized and rubber molding. Let’s delve into these two processes to help you better understand their unique attributes and applications.

Vulcanized Rubber

Vulcanization is a chemical process used to enhance the properties of natural rubber. This process involves heating raw rubber in the presence of sulfur and other chemicals, which helps create cross-links between polymer chains. Vulcanized rubber offers increased strength, elasticity, and resistance to various factors like temperature, chemicals, and wear. One of the most notable applications of vulcanized rubber is in the automotive industry, where it’s used for tire manufacturing. Its durability and resistance to extreme conditions make it an ideal choice for creating tires that withstand various driving terrains and weather conditions.

Rubber Molding

Molded rubber refers to the process of shaping rubber into specific forms and designs. This method involves placing uncured rubber into a mold cavity and applying heat and pressure to cure and shape it. Rubber molding is known for its precision in creating complex shapes and designs, typically used in the automotive and appliance industries. At Clark Rubber & Plastic, we utilize rubber molding techniques to produce parts with intricate designs and tight tolerances. Our molded rubber products find applications in various fields, offering functionality and aesthetic appeal.

Comparing Vulcanized and Molded Rubber

While both vulcanized and molded rubber have unique advantages, the key difference lies in their processing techniques and end-use applications. Vulcanized rubber enhances the physical properties of rubber, making it more durable and resistant. In contrast, molded rubber focuses on precise shape specifications for rubber to fit certain design requirements. The choice between these two rubber forms ultimately hinges on the desired attributes of the final product.

Vulcanized rubber is a viable option for items that must withstand harsh conditions and stress, while molded rubber is preferred for components needing specific shapes and contours. At Clark Rubber & Plastic, we leverage both these processes, providing our clients with tailored solutions to their industrial applications.

Tailored Solutions

Consider the example of custom automotive seals and gaskets for tailored solutions, an application used at Clark Rubber & Plastic. We often recommend vulcanized rubber for these components due to its resistance to oils and high temperatures. Our team works closely with automotive manufacturers to design seals and gaskets that precisely fit their engines or door frames, providing optimal performance and longevity. This approach in selecting and shaping rubber can meet the automotive industry’s stringent requirements.

Your Partner in Rubber Molding

At Clark Rubber & Plastic, we understand the importance of choosing the right type of rubber for your specific needs. Whether it’s vulcanized rubber or molded rubber for intricate designs, our team is equipped with the technology to deliver solutions. Contact us today to learn more about our rubber and plastic manufacturing capabilities and how we can support your industry’s unique needs.

Manufacturing processes like rubber molding and plastic molding play a role in the production of various products we use in our daily lives. These processes might seem similar at first glance, but each has unique characteristics. Here are the differences between rubber and plastic molding. 

Rubber Molding

Rubber molding, or rubber compression molding, is primarily used for creating rubber parts and components. This method involves applying heat and pressure to form rubber materials into the desired shape. Several rubber molding processes exist, including compression, transfer, and injection molding.

Rubber casting uses natural rubber, silicone rubber, and synthetic rubber compounds. These materials are elastic and resilient. This makes them ideal for tasks that need flexible and durable items.

The material is heated first in rubber casting, placed in the mold cavity, and exposed to high pressure and heat. Pressure combined with heat vulcanizes the rubber and takes the mold’s shape. Latex molding helps to produce gaskets, tires, and seals in the automotive industry. The process is also standard in making medical devices, industrial machinery, and consumer goods.

Items made through latex molding are durable, resistant to extreme temperatures, and have superior sealing properties. Rubber casting can create complex shapes with intricate details, making it suitable for various applications. 

Plastic Molding

Plastic molding is a manufacturing process used to create plastic products. Techniques used in this manufacturing process include injection molding, extrusion, and blow molding. You can use any of these methods depending on the type of plastic material and what you want the final product to look like.

This manufacturing process uses many thermoplastic materials like polypropylene, polyethylene, PVC, and many others. Each type of plastic has its own properties, which influence its suitability for different applications.

Manufacturers choose plastic material to heat to a molten state during plastic molding and then inject, blow, or extrude into a mold cavity. Once it cools and solidifies, the finished product is removed from the mold. Plastic molding is used to produce everything from packaging materials and household items to automotive parts and electronics casings.

Plastic molding processes are highly versatile and efficient. They encourage identical parts to be produced precisely and repeatedly. Plastic components are light, resist corrosion, and are cost-effective to produce. 

Differences

• Rubber casting uses rubber materials, while plastic molding uses plastic polymers.
• This manufacturing process uses heat and pressure to shape rubber materials. Plastic molding incorporates the melting and solidifying of plastic materials in a mold.
• Rubber molding suits products that require elasticity, resilience, and resistance to extreme temperatures. You can apply plastic molding in various industries and product categories because it is versatile.
• Plastic molding offers versatility, repeatability, and cost-effectiveness. Rubber casting provides sealing and durability.

Use Our Rubber Molding Services

Rubber and plastic molding are two distinct manufacturing processes catering to specific applications and materials. Understanding the differences helps manufacturers and product designers select the appropriate method for their needs. Contact us today for your rubber molding needs and experience the flexibility of rubber in your everyday lives.