Blow Molding versus Injection Molding for Automotive Instrument Panel Substrates and Components

Relative advantages and disadvantages of blow molding vs. injection molding as they pertain to the production of automotive instrument panels are compared. Specific design issues such as parts consolidation and surface appearance are discussed, along with such processing issues as cycle time, tooling costs and regrind generation.

In addition, an economic model is presented which examines the sensitivity of part cost to such variables as capital required, tooling cost, cycle time, finishing costs, regrind generated, and yearly volume of parts produced. The result is both a qualitative as well as quantitative tool to aid the designer and manufacturing engineer in making a rational process selection.