Although the terms “dip molding” and “dip coating” sound very similar and require the same materials, they are actually two different processes used to create and improve products in a variety of industries. Dip molding involves the dipping of a mandrel into a liquid polymer to create a new plastic product while dip coating involves the placing of a finished product into a liquid polymer and covering all (or some) of it in plastisol.
When is dip coating used?
Commonly used in the creation of medical instruments and a variety of consumer goods, dip coating has been performed on items all around you. Just open up your toolbox and you will find pliers, wrenches and other specialty tools whose handles have a plastisol coating for a better, more comfortable grip. Bumpers, plumbing fittings and electrical connectors are also dip coated for a protective, insulating and resilient final product.
When is dip molding used?
Unlike dip coating, which puts a functional plastisol finish on (typically) metal items improve the items properties and safety, dip molding creates new products completely from plastisol. Spring reinforced tubes, medical connectors, nasal cannula and many other medical and industrial products are created using this method.
The dipping mandrels proceed through a preheat, dip, post-heat, and finally a cooling process where the finished part is removed from the was created on.
To learn more about dip molding and dip coating and Piper Plastic’s custom processes, visit us online or contact us by phone at 800-966-9919. We pride ourselves in being able to formulate our plastisol according to your exact product specifications, creating a premier final product.
Hi,
I’m Ömer. I’m chemical engineer and I do master’s degree. I have some questions about dip molding because I interest this matter and maybe I can work in coating area. If you answer, I’m so delighted.
1-) What is the difference between dip coating and dip molding?
2-) After coating/molding process, I want to remove coated part from metal rod. How can I remove from metal?
3-) How can I prepare plastisol(liquid). What are the issues which I have to konow and I need to pay attention?
Respects
Hi Omer,
1) Dip Molding and Dip Coating are very similar. In molding, the PVC is removed from the mandrel after dipping. In coating, it stays on the mandrel, (which is actually the part to be coated.)
2) You can remove PVC from metal after dip molding using air, mold release, or mechanical force.
3) The plastisol you use should be ready to use out of the container. No additional preparation should be needed.
Good luck with your project!
Andy Weiss