\n\tProto Labs Inc., Maple Plain, Minn., has introduced magnesium injection molding into its current rapid manufacturing services. This advanced injection molding process, known as thixomolding, enables product designers and engineers to prototype with the same materials and processes as the final production part. In addition to prototypes, Proto Labs offers production parts in quantities up to 5000+, with a typical turnaround time of 15 days.<\/p>\n
\n\tMagnesium injection molding is a process of manufacturing fully dense, net-shape magnesium parts, similar to those produced in die casting, using an injection molding press. Referred to also as thixomolding, the process involves heating chipped magnesium feedstock in the barrel of a press. A reciprocating screw works the material into a thixotropic (gel-like) state, and the material is forced into a steel mold at high speed and pressure to create the part. Magnesium injection molding is a mature, established manufacturing process that produces strong, lightweight magnesium parts that maintain detailed features and thin walls.<\/p>\n