Low-volume manufacturing is getting increasingly popular in any industrial setup. Whenever an industry wants to start mass production, they first invest in low-volume manufacturing to test the product or equipment which they are supposed to use at the bulk level. Be it the automotive industry, aviation sector, railway, electronics, or any other industrial sector, all of them invest in low-volume production before jumping into bulk manufacturing.
3 Different Ways of Low-Volume Manufacturing
This brings us to different low-volume manufacturing strategies, including:
1. CNC Machining
CNC stands for Computer Numerical Control. In this method, pre-programmed computer software controls the movements of different tools which are used to manufacture the prototype. This is one of the fastest-developing ways of prototyping due to the emerging IT revolution.
2. Plastic Injection Molding
It is a manufacturing process in which plastic material, usually in the form of granules or pellets, is melted and injected by a machine into a mold. Mold is usually made of metal, and it is designed to produce a specific shape or product. The molten plastic is injected into the metal mold under high pressure, where it solidifies and cools. Once the molten plastic has cooled and solidified, the mold will be opened, and the finished product will be ejected.
3. Vacuum Casting
Vacuum casting is a manufacturing process used to create high-quality plastic parts with excellent surface finish and dimensional accuracy. It is a variation of the traditional casting process, in which a mold is filled with a liquid material, such as plastic or metal, and allowed to solidify.
In vacuum casting, a two-part silicone mold is used, with one-half of the mold being the master pattern and the other half being a cavity. The silicone mold is placed in a vacuum chamber, and the air is removed to create a vacuum. The plastic material is then pushed into the mold under low pressure, and the vacuum helps to eliminate any air bubbles and ensure a smooth surface finish on the finished part.
5 Applications of Low-Volume Manufacturing
Some of the applications of low-volume manufacturing are listed below:
Producing small quantities of parts
The primary objective of low-volume manufacturing is to produce any product in small quantities before kicking off bulk production. This strategy is a part of high mix low-volume production, in which different products are manufactured in low quantities.
Producing complex and high-requirement parts
Since complex and high-requirement parts are difficult to produce, they are first manufactured in low volume to avoid any massive loss. Once the industries are satisfied with the prototypes, mass production can finally be started. Otherwise, all the products manufactured in mass production can get faulty.
Producing custom parts
In any industrial setup, industries have their specific demands. So, prototypes are highly favorable to satisfy the custom demands of any customer. Once the customer approves the prototypes, these products can be manufactured in bulk.
During plastic injection molding trails
Plastic molding can be a tricky process most of the time. So, the products manufactured using this method are better produced in low-volume first to avoid any financial loss.
During the testing and verification of production components
Whenever any product is tested and verified, they are supposed to be manufactured in small quantities. This way, it is easy to incorporate feedback and any changes into the product before bulk production.
5 Benefits of KAIAO’s Low-Volume Manufacturing Service
KAIAO’s low-volume manufacturing service comes up with numerous benefits, as listed below:
- Room for flexibility and customization
- Cost-effectiveness
- Quick turnaround
- Inspection report and certifications
- Design for manufacturing support
Wrapping Up
KAIAO provides low-volume manufacturing services to companies and individuals who want to get prototypes of any type. They have excelled in low manufacturing service over the years, which has enabled them to develop wide-ranging prototypes. KAIAO employs modern-day tactics for low-volume manufacturing, which helps them to win the trust of every industry.
Based in Shenzhen, China, KAIAO has championed rapid prototyping services. Due to their reliance on providing high-quality prototypes, they have won the trust of global consumers. Also, they are equipped with numerous quality assurance certificates, which have helped them win their customers’ trust. Check their qualifications on KAIAO’s website and place your order now!
