Low Volume vs. High Volume Injection Molding: Which One is Right for You?

Plastic injection molding is a popular manufacturing method used to create everything from tiny medical parts to large automotive components. But not all injection molding is the same—choosing between low volume injection molding and high volume injection molding depends on your production needs, budget, and timeline.

What is Low Volume Injection Molding?

Low volume injection molding is best for producing smaller quantities, usually under 10,000 parts. It uses aluminum molds, which are cheaper and faster to make than steel molds.

Benefits of Low Volume Injection Molding:

✔ Lower Costs – Aluminum tooling is less expensive than steel, reducing upfront investment.
✔ Faster Turnaround – Molds can be made in days instead of weeks, speeding up production.
✔ Design Flexibility – Easier to modify molds for design changes.
✔ Great for Prototyping – Perfect for testing product designs before mass production.

Best Uses for Low Volume Molding:

• Prototypes

• Market testing

• Custom or specialty parts

• Short-run production

What is High Volume Injection Molding?

High volume injection molding is used for mass production, typically over 750,000 parts. It relies on steel molds, which are more durable but costlier.

Benefits of High Volume Injection Molding:

✔ Lower Cost Per Unit – Producing more parts reduces individual costs.
✔ Faster Production Speeds – Steel molds can handle millions of cycles.
✔ Better for Automation – Ideal for large-scale, consistent manufacturing.

Best Uses for High Volume Molding:

• Consumer goods (bottles, containers)

• Automotive parts

• Medical devices

• Electronics

FAQs About Injection Molding

1. Which is cheaper, low or high volume molding?
Low volume has lower upfront costs, but high volume becomes cheaper per unit when making large quantities.

2. Can I switch from low to high volume later?
Yes! Many companies start with low volume for testing before moving to high volume for mass production.

3. How long does it take to make a mold?

• Aluminum molds: 1-3 weeks

• Steel molds: 4-8 weeks

4. Which industries use low volume molding?
Medical, aerospace, and automotive industries often use it for prototyping and custom parts.

5. Is high volume molding better for quality?
Yes, steel molds provide more consistency for large batches.

Final Thoughts

Choosing between low volume and high volume injection molding depends on your project size and budget. Need fast, flexible, and cost-effective small batches? Go with low volume. Ready for mass production? High volume is the way to go.