How to Start Multi-Color Plastic Items Manufacturing?

Multi-color plastic items can be seen everywhere.

Toothbrushes, toys, power tool handles, automotive taillight housings, smartwatch straps, and even phone covers, hundreds of items use multi-color configurations.

Historically, multi-color items have been produced via overmolding. In this method, one material was molded first. Then it was placed again into another mold to add a second layer. 

But this method was slow, labor-intensive, and inconsistent (in terms of quality).

Multi-color injection molding machines aim to replace exactly this method. These provide better quality products in less time with automatic operations.

Currently, there aren’t many players in the multi-color production market. If you want to start such a manufacturing setup, now is the best time.

But before doing that, read this article and learn the basics of doing so.

An Overview of Multi-Color Items Market

The global plastic market is growing at a CAGR of 5.1%.

Pakistan’s plastic industry, on the other hand, is seeing a growth rate of 15%, which is almost triple the size of the rest of the world. 

Multi-color (also called multi-material) products hold a key majority in this number. 

Does it mean that you should start multi-material plastic production in Pakistan?

Yes, if we put it simply.

Not just too-good plastic market growth is the reason, but also the lack of modern manufacturing infrastructure.

If you start an advanced multi-materials product manufacturing setup (with high precision capability), the demand for your plant is gonna sky-rocketed. 

If you can produce high-quality multi-color products:

• You can attract big brands
• You can charge better prices
• You can stand out from competitors

In simple words, better quality means better profit.

Below are more details of such a setup. 

Which Machine Is Used for Multi-Color Parts?

The machine that is used in the setup is a multi-color injection molding machine. 

HiTech Machinery would want you to go for Tederic NEO·M Series. This series is one of the most advanced options so far, and has different machine options. 

This series is perfect for manufacturing multi-material and/or multi-color products in one cycle. 

You can fit up to six injection units with these machines, which means you can manufacture plastic items with up to six different colors/materials. 

This series enables the production of complex products requiring mixed color, multi-color, sandwich, and multi-layer injection processes. 

Some of the top features of these machines are:

• Clamping Force of 750t to 3520t
• Clamping Structure: Two-platen / Toggle
• Hydraulic & Hydraulic+Electric Versions
• High-Gloss Product Finish
• E-Charge™ Electric Preplasticizing Technology 

This series gives you faster production, better bonding between colors, high precision, less labor cost, consistent quality, and a clean, attractive finish.

If you want to compete in today’s market, this is the right way.

Complete Multi-Color Items Manufacturing Setup

A complete multi-color manufacturing setup means a complete turnkey solution (consisting of multiple pieces of equipment put together), not just one machine. 

That said, here is what you will need:

Injection Molding Machine

As mentioned earlier, a multi-color injection molding machine is a must to have in order to start your multi-material/multi-color plastic product manufacturing setup.

The exact version you should choose from the Tederic IMM NEO·M series depends on your needs, product specifications, production requirements, and other factors. 

Injection Units

Depending on your product, you may need to put up to 6 injection units together.

Every machine comes with two built-in injection units. However, if you put more injection units, this will add to the list of your manufacturing setup.

This also means more expense and operational complexity. 

Mold

Mold decides the shape and design of your product.

For multi-color items, mold is more advanced and precise. It also means it is more expensive than the simple molds. 

Auxiliaries

In an injection molding setup, an important aspect is automation. And this automation can be achieved with the help of auxiliaries. 

For a multi-material setup, you will need these supporting auxiliaries: 

• Auto Loader Setup
• Mixer/Blender
• Water Chiller
• Take-Out Robot
• Granulator
• Conveyor System
• Air compressor
  

They help the main machine run smoothly.

What Multi-Color Items Can One Manufacture?

Multi-material injection molding hands you the freedom to manufacture a variety of products.

You are not limited to one industry, but can diversify your product range. You can even improve any existing product by adding multiple layers of different colors or materials.

That said, these are some common categories:

HiTech Machinery Provides the Whole Setup

Do you still have some confusion about starting your multi-color setup?

Or are you still confused about how much you will need to invest in the venture?

In both of the cases, HiTech Machinery is here to help you out. We do understand that starting a new business is confusing, and we are here to make it easier for you

HiTech Machinery helps you with the complete solution. Not just machines, but everything required to start production.

This includes:

• Machine selection
• Full setup planning
• Molds and auxiliaries
• Installation
• Local support
• After-sales service
• Local warranty

This makes your journey easier and faster.

Take the next step by contacting our team and see how a multi-color solution can be turned into a successful business. Start your own production line now.