What's The Over-Molded?
1. What's the meaning of "over-molded"
Overmolding technology is a mature technology in silicone factories. This technology can make two materials firmly bonded without glue, greatly improving safety.
Because there is no need to bond through adhesives, silicone products are more widely used, such as silicone spatulas in the kitchen. Are there many such products around you?
2. Over-molded technology principle
This can be divided into two types: silicone and silicone combination and silicone and non-silicone combination.
1. silicone and silicone combination
It can make the product more personalized and very easy to identify. There is an obvious parting line at the joint position, and there will be no color mixing. The product appearance is very beautiful, as shown below.
It should be noted that the price of products made by over-molded process is a bit higher. If your product has no requirements on appearance, it is better to choose normal silicone molding process to control costs.
2. silicone and non-silicone combination
Non-silicone materials are divided into: plastic and metal. They are widely used.
▶ Metal with silicone
Silicone wrapped metal is very common. Usually it is for better use of tools. Silicone material is relatively soft and has a better shape design, making the tool safer to use.
The silicone wrapped part can also extend the service life of the metal. After manufacturing, the silicone will play a role in waterproofing and dustproofing the wrapped metal.
▶ Plastic with silicone
Silicone coated plastic can provide cushioning on the plastic surface and sealing performance inside. Because it is an over-molded technology, there is no need to worry about the interface leaking. The following figure is an example for reference.
3. In what fields is over-molded technology commonly used?
1. Consumer Electronics
Application scenarios: non-slip grip, waterproof seal, touch optimization.
Cases:
Smart watches/bracelets: silicone coated watch straps or sensor housings provide skin-friendly touch and waterproof performance.
Earphones/chargers: silicone coated interfaces achieve dust and water resistance (IP67/IP68) and improve durability.
Mobile phone buttons/protective cases: silicone coated buttons enhance tactile feedback, and the edges of the protective case provide buffering and shock absorption.
2. Auto industry
Application scenarios: high temperature resistant sealing, shock absorption and noise reduction, human-machine interaction interface.
Case:
Steering wheel/shift lever: silicone coating improves grip comfort and integrates anti-slip texture.
Sensor/connector: silicone coating protects precision electronic components and withstands high temperature and oil pollution in the engine compartment.
Car light sealing: coating the edge of the LED light group to achieve long-term waterproof and anti-fog.
3. Medical Devices
Application scenarios: biocompatibility requirements, sterile environment sealing.
Case:
Surgical instrument handles: silicone coating provides a non-slip, easy-to-clean surface that meets medical-grade standards (such as ISO 10993).
Respiratory mask/catheter interface: The soft edge of silicone fits the skin, reducing indentation and improving patient comfort.
Wearable medical devices: such as blood glucose meters and electrocardiogram patches, silicone coating ensures safe contact with the skin.
4. What products require overmolding technology?
1. High requirements for product appearance
2. No glue is used for bonding
3. Chemical corrosion resistance, sealing protection
4. Heat insulation, anti-scalding, easy-to-clean
If you are unsure whether to use this technology for your product, please contact us for professional advice.
