Microinjection molding of microsystem components: new aspects in improving performance

TLDR

Microinjection molding (µIM) is a flexible, reliable, and cost‑effective method for producing plastic micro‑components, and its machine, tooling, material selection, and process control have advanced significantly over recent decades. The review seeks to outline emerging trends for enhancing micro‑component performance by evaluating design, simulation, morphology, and application aspects of µIM. The authors review recent developments in product and mold design, simulation factors, micro‑morphology, and variant processes to assess their impact on µIM performance. The review highlights key considerations for improving microsystem component performance.

Abstract

Microinjection molding (µIM) is considered to be one of the most flexible, reliable and cost effective manufacturing routes to form plastic micro-components for microsystems. The molding machine, mold tool fabrication, material selection and process controlling in this specific field have been greatly developed over the past decades. This review aims to present the new trends towards improving micro-component performance by reviewing the latest developments in this area and by considering potential directions. The key concerns in product and mold designing, essential factors in simulation, and micro-morphology and resultant properties are evaluated and discussed. In addition, the applications, variant processes and outlook for µIM are presented. Throughout this review, decisive considerations in seeking improved performance for microsystem components are highlighted.