Using the latest in injection molding technology, Fathom can deliver high-quality parts to its customers. Whether time-sensitive, highly complex, high-precision, or short production run related, Fathom will meet the requirements of your project.
Sometimes called small batch injection molding, short run injection molding uses the same process as injection molding with some key differences. First, while most injection molding manufacturers set a higher minimum order, short run injection molding allows for a lower minimum quantity requirement. Short run injection molding results in a quicker turnaround, reduced costs, and the ability to test a design prior to a large production run. Small batch injection molding is ideal for industries that require specialized parts in lower order quantities, including aerospace, automotive, medical and more.
There is a wide range of benefits to short run injection molding. As mentioned, short run injection molding allows companies to order a smaller quantity of parts. In addition to lower order minimums, some of the benefits of short run injection molding include:
Short run injection molding allows for businesses to get their product in front of customers at a rapid pace. Being the first to market with a new design is critical. With short run injection molding, a high-quality prototype can be rapidly produced. As an added benefit, profits from the initial run can be used towards final production.
Short run injection molding allows designers to produce production quality prototypes. As a result, the design can be tested for functionality and performance, and can also be used to gather valuable feedback. This means that any design issues can be resolved before committing to a larger production run.
Thanks to a lower order minimum and inexpensive mold, short run injection molding is accessible for small to medium sized businesses who were previously unable to invest in the larger minimum quantities associated with injection molding. Additionally, modifying the design of a part is easier and less expensive with small batch injection molding.
Fathom can help you manufacture high-quality and cost-effective short run injection molded parts. Fathom is a single-source global solution ready to support both low- and high-volume jobs. Our team incorporates both additive and advanced technologies, resulting in high-quality parts that will meet your customers’ needs.
Injection Molding is just one of 28 manufacturing processes offered by Fathom.
Use Fathom’s SmartQuote online platform to receive a quote in as fast as 1 hour, usually within 24 hours. Whether you need short run injection molding or another manufacturing service, Fathom’s injection molding lead times are as follows:
Fathom has 2 US-based locations that offer injection molding, offering nationwide coverage to the entire United States. Fathom’s advanced prototyping and manufacturing services include wire EDM, CNC machining, chemical etching, metal 3D printing, and more. We have provided over 200,000 quotes to leading US companies and are ready to provide you with a quote today.
Locations include:
HEADQUARTERS
1050 Walnut Ridge Drive
Hartland, WI 53029
ISO 9001:2015
AS9100:2016
ITAR
ILLINOIS
1207 Adams Drive
McHenry, IL 60051
The specifications and tolerances of injection molding can ensure that a part fits correctly once it is assembled. Tolerances and specifications also determine how a part should be shaped to maximize function. The optimal tolerance for a part is critical for making a premium part at an affordable price.
| TOOL OPTIONS | LEAD TIME | PART QUANTITY | MAXIMUM PARTING LINE MISMATCH | MAXIMUM FLASH | TOOL TOLERANCES LINEAR DIMENSIONS | PART COLOR | PART FINISH (COLOR) | PART FINISH (TEXTURE) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rapid Tool (Master Unit Die Base) | 1.5-3 Weeks | 5,000 Shots | 0.010in | 0.010in | ±0.003 + 0.002in/in | Pantone Colors | A2 | Yes |
| Prototype Tool (Stand Alone) | 2-4 Weeks | 5,000-50,000 Shots | 0.010in | 0.007in | ±0.005 + 0.002in/in | A2 | ||
| Production Tool | 5-10 Weeks (Depends on Size and Complexity) | 250,000 - 1,000,000 Shots (Depending on Class of Tool Selected) | 0.005in | 0.005in | SPI (Commercial) | A1 |
Fathom can help you find the best material for your short run injection molding project. Our materials include crystalline, amorphous, imidized plastics and more. Selecting the best material for your part is complex as each plastic has a range of characteristics.
After short run injection molding, a part moves on to the finishing process. Some finishes may be for cosmetic reasons, but others may add to the physical properties of a workpiece. Here are some of the finishing processes offered by Fathom.
| SURFACE FINISH | GUIDE | TYPICAL APPLICATIONS |
|---|---|---|
| Standard No Machine Mark | Tool Marks Removed | Low Cosmetic |
| SPI-C1 | 600 Stone | Low Polish Parts |
| SPI-B1 | 600 Grit Paper | Medium Polish Parts |
| SPI-A2 | Grade #6 Diamond | High Polish Parts |
| SPI-A1 | Grade #3 | Lens or Mirror |
| IM-1 Light Bead Blast | Need 1 Degree Draft Angle | |
| IM-2 Medium Bead Blast | Need 1.5 Degree Draft Angle | |
| IM-3 Heavy Bead Blast | Need 3 Degree Draft Angle |
A: Yes, Fathom offers injection molding services.
A: Injection molding is a manufacturing process commonly used for plastic parts. During injection molding, molten plastic is injected into a mold using high pressure. Once the part has cooled inside the mold, it is ejected. The part may or may not require a secondary finish.
A: Fathom’s certifications include ISO 9001:2015, ISO 9001:2015 Design, and ISO 13485:2016. For site-specific certifications, please visit https://fathommfg.com/fathom-manufacturing-certifications.
A: Yes, Fathom is ITAR certified. For site-specific certifications, please visit https://fathommfg.com/fathom-manufacturing-certifications.
A: Yes, Fathom is AS9100:2016. For site-specific certifications, please visit https://fathommfg.com/fathom-manufacturing-certifications.
A: Yes, Fathom’s certifications include NIST 800-171. For site-specific certifications, please visit https://fathommfg.com/fathom-manufacturing-certifications.
A: The cost of injection molding depends on the complexity of the part, part size, tooling cost, equipment setup and configuration, materials used, and more. Contact Fathom today for a quote.
A: Injection molds have a higher upfront cost because they can be used repeatedly to produce thousands of identical parts.
A: The best way to estimate the cost of your injection molding part is to use the SmartQuote platform and receive a quote in as fast as 1 hour.
A: A high-quality, well-maintained injection mold can last from 100,000 to 1 million cycles.
Are you ready to get a quote or calculate costs on short run injection molding? Fathom’s SmartQuote application can provide you with a fast quote on any file.
