Small size Injection molded parts for household appliances

• Important Points in the Design of Small Parts
• The design of small parts calls for accuracy to achieve functionality, manufacturing ability and safety.
  
• Draft: Necessary for the removal of the part from the mold. It should be at least 1° per side. Extra draft is advisable for textured surfaces.
  
• Wall Thickness: Very important. Small PP parts should have walls 1.0 mm - 2.5 mm thick. Wall thickness uniformity is important to prevent sinking (depressions on the surface), warping, and stresses.
  
• Ribs: Use ribs to stiffen and reinforce your parts without increasing wall thickness. A good ratio is one where the rib has 50-60% of the nominal wall thickness.
  
• Fillets and radii: Fillets should always be used on sharp edges. They help to reduce stress concentration, improve plastic flow and add strength to the part.
  
• Living hinges: A typical PP property. The hinge should be thin (0.25-0.5 mm) and extend through the entire length of the part. There should be an allowance in the design of the mold such that plastic flows parallel to the hinge line.
  
• Undercuts: Very expensive since they involve designing molds that incorporate side actions, lifters or hand loaded inserts.

Appliances 

• Coffee Maker: Lids for water tanks, coffee funnel, and small compartments.
• Blender: Measuring cup lids, small pushers, ingredient feeder.
• Food Processor: Dough knife, small pushers, accessory lids.
• Electric Kettle: Mechanisms to lift lid and water window indicators.
• Dishwasher: Lids for detergent compartment, small rack parts, rinse-aid covers.
• Air Friers/Ovens: Button covers, small handle covers, and racks inside.