What is the hourly rate for injection molding?

1, Composition of hourly rate for injection molding
The hourly rate for injection molding mainly consists of the following parts:
Equipment depreciation and maintenance costs: Injection molding machines are the core equipment in the injection molding process, and their purchase costs are high. As they are used for a long time, the equipment will gradually wear out and require regular maintenance and upkeep. These costs will be allocated to the hourly production cost, thereby affecting the rate.
Material cost: The cost of plastic raw materials required for injection molding is also an important component of the rate. The price differences of plastic raw materials of different types, brands, and qualities directly affect the cost of injection molded products. In addition, the waste and loss of raw materials will also increase costs, thereby affecting rates.
Labor cost: During the injection molding process, workers are required to operate equipment, replace molds, and inspect products. The wages, benefits, and training expenses of these workers will constitute labor costs, which in turn will affect the rates.
Energy consumption cost: Injection molding machines require a large amount of electricity and water resources during operation, and these energy consumption costs will also be allocated to the hourly production cost.
Other expenses: including mold design, manufacturing, and maintenance costs, as well as other auxiliary materials and tool costs during the production process.
2, Market overview of hourly rates for injection molding
The market overview of hourly rates for injection molding varies depending on factors such as region, enterprise size, equipment model, and product quality. Generally speaking, rates in developed regions are relatively high because labor costs, equipment procurement, and maintenance costs are generally high in these areas. Meanwhile, large enterprises may have relatively lower rates due to economies of scale.
Specifically, the hourly rate for injection molding typically ranges from tens to hundreds of yuan. For example, some small businesses or individual workshops may provide injection molding services at lower rates, but these services often lack quality assurance and after-sales service. On the contrary, some large enterprises or professional injection molding service providers may offer higher rates, but their equipment is advanced, their technology is exquisite, and their service is thoughtful, which can provide customers with high-quality products and services.
3, Key factors affecting the hourly rate of injection molding
Equipment model and performance: Injection molding machines with different models and performance have different production capacity and efficiency. High performance injection molding machines can complete production tasks faster, reduce unit time costs, and thus increase rates.
Mold complexity and accuracy: The complexity and accuracy of molds have a significant impact on the injection molding process. Complex molds require more time and skills to design and manufacture, thereby increasing costs. Meanwhile, high-precision molds can produce higher quality products, but also require higher maintenance costs.
Production quantity and batch: The size of the production quantity and batch also affects the rate. Mass production can reduce the cost per unit of product, as fixed costs (such as equipment depreciation, mold design, etc.) can be spread across more products. On the contrary, small-scale production or customized products may require higher rates to cover higher costs.
Fluctuations in raw material prices: Fluctuations in plastic raw material prices can also affect the hourly rates for injection molding. When raw material prices rise, costs increase and rates correspondingly increase.
Market competition and supply-demand relationship: The intensity of market competition and changes in supply-demand relationship can also affect rates. In a fiercely competitive market, companies may lower their rates in order to attract customers. On the contrary, in a market where supply exceeds demand, companies may increase their rates to obtain higher profits.