Frequently asked questions.
Advantages of thermoplastic injection molding production?
Thermoplastic injection molding supports rapid cycle times, enabling high‑volume production with consistent output. The process allows for tight tolerances and complex geometries, even for intricate or multi‑feature components.
Types of material used at Skyline?
Commodity Thermoplastics
• Polypropylene (PP): Lightweight, chemical‑resistant, fatigue‑resistant
• Polyethylene (PE): Tough, flexible, high impact resistance
Engineering Thermoplastics
• ABS: Strong, tough, excellent surface finish
• Polycarbonate (PC): High impact strength, optical clarity
• Nylon (PA): High strength, wear‑resistant, ideal for gears
• Acetal (POM): Low friction, dimensionally stable, great for gears
• PBT: Strong electrical properties, chemical‑resistant
Elastomeric Thermoplastics
• TPE: Rubber‑like feel, recyclable, ideal for seals and grips
• TPU: Abrasion‑resistant, flexible, used in protective cases
What size molds can Skyline run?
Our equipment accommodates a wide range of mold sizes, from compact 6 × 6 × 6‑inch tools to large 39 × 39 × 39‑inch molds. This flexibility allows us to support everything from small precision components to large, complex parts.
What part sizes can Skyline produce?
Depending on the material and design, we can mold parts as light as 0.05 grams and as heavy as 800 grams, giving customers broad freedom in part geometry and application.
How long will our Tool last and who is responsible for it?
At Skyline Plastics, tool longevity is a core part of our commitment to quality. Whether your mold is built in‑house or produced by one of our trusted local tool shops, we take full responsibility for maintaining it throughout the agreed‑upon shot count. Many of the molds we’ve built internally are still running smoothly after well over one million cycles, demonstrating the durability and care that go into every tool we support.
When should your tools be evaluated for wear?
Mold longevity depends on its construction class. Below is a general guideline showing when a tool should be inspected for potential wear, maintenance, or replacement of critical components:
• Class 101 Tool: Evaluate around 1,000,000+ shots
• Class 102 Tool: Evaluate around 500,000 shots
• Class 103 Tool: Evaluate around 250,000 shots
• Prototype Tool: Evaluate between 1,000–10,000 shots, depending on materials and build method
These ranges help ensure your mold continues to run reliably and produce consistent, high‑quality parts.