Classified according to the plastic molding technology adopted, different processes correspond to distinct mold structures and production efficiency.
- Injection Molding Molds for Optical Plastics
The most common type, suitable for mass production of optical components. It uses high-precision injection molding machines to inject molten optical-grade plastics (e.g., PMMA, PC, COP) into the mold cavity. The molds are equipped with hot runner systems to reduce material waste and ensure uniform melt filling.
- Compression Molding Molds for Optical Plastics
Mainly used for molding large-size or thick-wall optical components (e.g., large-diameter lenses, optical windows for aerospace). The process involves preheating the plastic blank and then compressing it into the mold cavity, which can reduce internal stress of the product and improve optical uniformity.
- Micro-injection Molding Molds for Optical Components
Designed for micro-optical parts (e.g., micro-lens arrays, optical fibers, miniature sensor lenses) with dimensions ranging from micrometers to millimeters. The molds require micro-precision machining technologies (e.g., micro-EDM, ultra-precision grinding) to fabricate tiny cavity structures.