Overmolding Service
Get high-quality custom overmolded products | Choose from a wide selection of materials and finishes | Project management and expert support included with every order
We take a consultative approach to every overmolding project, from design validation to production. Dedicated project managers and engineering experts manage the entire process.
Custom Overmolding With Artemis 3D
Artemis 3D is a premier provider of custom overmolded components, offering high-quality, on-demand injection molding for both prototyping and production volumes.
We take a consultative approach to every injection molding project, ensuring we meet your specific requirements regardless of your team's level of experience. Our expertise extends to complex projects, including those incorporating side actions or hand-loaded inserts.
We are focused on providing long-term manufacturing solutions. Clients are supported by dedicated overmolding project managers and engineering experts who manage the entire process, from design validation to production. We service all industries, including specialized fields like medical injection molding, and offer both domestic US and international molding services.
How Overmolding Works
Overmolding bonds one material to another using injection molding equipment to create a single, durable component.
Overmolding is a versatile manufacturing process that bonds one material, usually a thermoplastic elastomer (TPE/TPV), to another material (typically a rigid plastic substrate) using injection molding equipment. This method delivers a powerful combination of aesthetics, haptics, and functional performance, providing benefits like superior grip, shock absorption, impact resistance, enhanced surface protection, and better chemical insulation for an improved tactile experience.
A key advantage of overmolding is its ability to seamlessly fuse multiple materials into a single, durable component through mechanical or chemical bonding. This technique is perfect for projects requiring customized designs, flexibility, or enhanced functionality, and it reduces manufacturing costs by consolidating parts into a single, integrated component.
Overmolding Materials
TPEs like TPU and TPV are widely favored for overmolding due to their flexibility, durability, and strong bonding. Nylon, PP, and PC are also popular for specific applications.
| Material | Common Applications | Properties | Techniques |
|---|---|---|---|
| Thermoplastic Vulcanizate (TPV) | Seals, Gaskets, Automotive parts | Good chemical resistance, Elasticity, High-temperature resistance | Elastomer over rigid plastic, Elastomer over metal |
| Thermoplastic Polyurethane (TPU) | Handles, Grips, Automotive components | High elasticity, Excellent abrasion resistance, Strong bonding capabilities | Elastomer over rigid plastic, Elastomer over metal |
| Liquid Silicone Rubber (LSR) | Medical devices, Kitchen utensils, Seals | Heat-resistant, Flexible, Biocompatible, Suitable for high-temperature applications | Elastomer over rigid plastic, Elastomer over metal |
| Polycarbonate (PC) | Electronics housings, Lenses | High impact strength, Heat resistance, Transparency, Suitable for rigid overmolding | Rigid plastic over metal, Rigid plastic over rigid plastic |
| Nylon (Polyamide, PA) | Overmolded metal parts, Automotive parts | High strength, Rigidity, Resistance to wear, Suitable for bonding with softer materials | Rigid plastic over metal, Rigid plastic over rigid plastic |
| Polypropylene (PP) | Packaging, Consumer products | Low cost, Good chemical resistance, Flexible | Rigid plastic over metal, Rigid plastic over rigid plastic |
Overmolding Finishes
SPI Finishes
Range of finishes from Grade 3 diamond / high polish to 320 stone low polish. Finishes include: SPI A-1, A-2, A-3, B-1, B-2, B-3, C-1, C-2, C-3, D-1, D-2, D-3.
As Molded
No secondary polishing or grinding. Part will show tooling marks.
Other Mold Texturing
We can match other mold textures upon request.
Overmolding Design Tips
- Wall thicknesses between 0.060" to 0.120" (1.5 mm–3 mm) generally provide the best bonding.
- Keeping radii between 0.020" or 0.5 mm minimum in corners reduces localized stresses.
- Thick TPE sections should be cored out to minimize shrinkage, reduce part weight, and lower cycle time.
- Avoid deep or unventable blind pockets or ribs in your design.
- Use gradual transitions between wall thickness to reduce or avoid problems with flow (back fills, gas traps, etc.).
- TPE/TPV overmolds should be less thick than the substrate to prevent warpage, especially if the part is flat, long, or both.
- Overmolding needs mechanical or chemical bonding to the substrate, so your overmold material choices should enable this.
Other Types of Injection Molding
Custom Plastic Injection Molding
Auto-quoted estimates for custom plastic molded prototypes and production runs. Virtually endless material and finishing options.
Learn MoreInsert Molding
Make strong, functional prototypes and production parts with insert molding.
Learn MoreWhy Choose Artemis 3D for Overmolding?
Endless Options
Choose from millions of possible combinations of materials, finishes, tolerances, markings, and certifications for your order.
Easy to Use
Get your parts delivered right to your door without the hassle of sourcing, project management, logistics, or shipping.
Vetted Network
We are ISO 9001:2015, AS9100D, IATF 16949, and ISO 13485 certified. Only the top molding shops that apply to become suppliers pass our qualification process.
Ready to Start an Overmolding Project?
Get high-quality custom overmolded products with a wide selection of materials and finishes. Project management and expert support included with every order.