Proto Labs Inc. (NYSE: PRLB), an online and technology-enabled quick-turn manufacturer, officially launched its overmolding service — expanding on the company’s rapid injection molding offerings. This new capability can produce 25 to 10,000+ custom overmolded parts in 15 days or less.

“This is a game-changer,” said Proto Labs CEO Vicki Holt. “Proto Labs is focused on accelerating product development, and the introduction of rapid overmolding gives designers and developers at the world’s largest companies one more tool to make high-quality prototype or low-volume production parts as quickly as possible.”

Overmolding can help improve the grip and durability of product designs, dampen vibration, and add two-color aesthetics. The overmolding process can also reduce manufacturing costs by simplifying multi-part assemblies. As the name implies, overmolded parts go through a multi-step process, which results in common products like tool handles, personal care products, medical devices and more.

Proto Labs claims the speed at which these parts can be created with its rapid injection molding services is unprecedented. The overmolding process uses engineering-grade thermoplastics and liquid silicone rubber materials to create overmolded prototypes and end-use production parts.

“Proto Labs was able to deliver high-quality, overmolded parts in just 15 days from the time I placed the order. This turnaround time allowed me to validate my design — using production-grade materials — much sooner than before,” said Michael Ackner, a senior mechanical engineer at Smiths Medical and early Proto Labs overmolding customer.

Proto Labs is at the International Manufacturing Technology Show (IMTS) in Chicago, September 12-17. Visit booth #N-72 to learn more about the company’s new overmolding capabilities and other rapid manufacturing processes.

Proto Labs
protolabs.com/injection-molding/overmolding