18. Other Components | v.20221215

2.4.1 Plastic tray

2.4.1.1 • Thickness

Notice #1. The plastic tray sample is usually thicker than that of mass production because only one mold applies in pre-production. The plastic sheet is not stretched around, which allows the sample to retain a larger thickness. In mass production, more than six molds will be applied at the same time, the adjacent die stretches and consumes the same material between, and its fluidity is quicker than a single mold, which results in the thickness of the plastic tray being thinner than the sample. Please evaluate the durability of the sample if you are demanding about the thickness and stiffness of the finished product. If necessary, you may request to increase the thickness of the raw materials to ensure quality, however, costs will increase accordingly.

Notice #2. When a small quantity of samples are created in pre-production, the pressure and temperature of the machine cannot be optimized, which will result in a varied thickness of the plastic trays (if you get several samples from us). This issue can be significantly reduced during mass production with the machines under stable operation, although it cannot be completely avoided.

2.4.1.2 • Surface Quality

When the sample is created in pre-production, a resin mold is applied. The die-cut trace will be left on the mold surface during the CNC process, and this will also be left on the surface of the plastic tray. In mass production, a copper-plated or aluminum mold (please refer to the quotation sheet) will be applied, so this issue will be improved or potentially avoided as the mold surfaces will be polished.

During pre-production, a plaster mold will be applied to the sample. The surface is softer, and its precision is comparatively poor, and as such, a grainy and uneven quality might occur. In mass production copper-plated or aluminum mold (please refer to the quotation sheet) will be applied, so the issue will be improved or potentially avoided, as those mold surfaces will be polished.

2.4.1.2 • Example of surface quality issue

2.4.1.2 • Example of surface quality issue

2.4.1.3 • Die-cut Precision

During pre-production, scissors or other cutting tools will be used on the plastic trays, which will lead to unevenness on the edges. In mass production, tailor-made die-cutting tools will be used which will give an even finish. See the picture below.

2.4.1.3 • Example of the die-cut preci sion issue