Stockwell Elastomerics expands micro molding capabilities with Sodick injection molding machine

Stockwell Elastomerics, Inc. is announcing its installation of a Sodick GL30A-LSR injection molding machine that supports liquid silicone rubber (LSR) micro molding. Micro molded parts are typically smaller than a dime and require a high degree of accuracy. Stockwell Elastomerics’ investment builds upon an expansion of its Molding Business Unit in 2022 that added new personnel and equipment for a 20% increase in capacity.

“Stockwell Elastomerics is committed to meeting the needs of customers in industries ranging from medical and healthcare to electronics, aerospace, defense, and emerging technologies”, said Tom Rimel, Jr., President of Stockwell Elastomerics. “Our investment in this new injection molding equipment expands our micro molding capabilities and positions us for additional growth.”

As experts in silicone gasket solutions, Stockwell Elastomerics offers a variety of fabrication and molding methods, including liquid injection molding and compression molding. The company’s new Sodick GL30A-LSR injection molding machine supports small LSR parts with tight tolerances molds with small cavities for efficient high-volume production. Stockwell Elastomerics has additional injection molding equipment for larger parts with small features.

Stockwell Elastomerics selected the Sodick GL30A-LSR injection molding machine to ensure the more consistent filling of small, intricate cavities. The hydraulic-supported clamping unit for this automated equipment provides a wider range of clamping tonnage, up to 440 kN. Higher tonnages help prevent leaks and short shots, the incomplete filling of mold cavities. The press’ clamping system also supports a wider variety of high count and multi-up molds.

Among its advantages, this clamping system helps reduce mold flash for more efficient cryogenic deflashing, a secondary process that removes excess material. Stockwell Elastomerics’ new machine also provides stable flow rates and clamping pressures for part accuracy down to a micron tolerance level. Material is injected via a hydraulic accumulator system, allowing for high-speed injection when it is needed and greater control when it is not.

In addition to a Sodick GL30A-LSR injection molding press, Stockwell Elastomerics recently invested in a new dual-head waterjet machine and closed-loop system. The dual-head waterjet will improve throughput because it has a larger cutting envelope size and faster cut speeds of .01 in/min to 900 in/min. Stockwell Elastomerics anticipates running many parts with this dual-head function to decrease lead times and serve customers faster.