Casting Vs Injection Molding—Which Method Works Better?
Yeah, that’s spot on about the reinforcement making a difference. I’ve specified molded benches before and the flex is always a concern, especially if you can’t guarantee people won’t misuse them. From a practical standpoint, I’d rather have something that looks good after three years than something that just feels heavy at first. Ever notice how cast iron stuff gets crazy hot in the sun, though? That’s one thing clients complain about every summer. Honestly, I lean molded for low-maintenance projects, but only with internal supports—otherwise it’s just asking for trouble.
Ever notice how cast iron stuff gets crazy hot in the sun, though? That’s one thing clients complain about every summer.
- Heat’s a real issue—I’ve had to convince folks not to spec dark finishes for exactly that reason.
- Molded with internal supports holds up better in public spaces, agreed.
- Anyone tried hybrid methods? I’ve seen some benches with cast frames and molded seats, seems like a smart compromise. Curious if that actually solves the flex/heat combo or just adds cost.
Hybrid benches are actually a pretty clever workaround, especially for high-traffic parks. We did a small plaza last year with cast aluminum frames and molded recycled plastic seats—honestly, the difference in surface temp was noticeable. The plastic stayed way cooler, and the cast frame kept everything sturdy. It did bump up the budget a bit, but maintenance costs dropped since there was less warping and fewer complaints about hot seats. Not perfect, but it’s a solid middle ground if you’re dealing with both heat and durability concerns.
Casting Vs Injection Molding—Which Method Works Better?
Yeah, I’ve noticed the same thing with hybrid benches—plastic seats are way more forgiving in the summer. I’m curious though, did you run into any issues with the recycled plastic fading or getting brittle over time? I’ve seen some molded plastics hold up really well, but others start looking rough after a couple of years. The cast aluminum frames are definitely a win for durability, but I always wonder about the embodied energy trade-off. Sometimes it feels like every material choice is just picking which problem you want to have less of...
Casting Vs Injection Molding—Which Method Works Better?
Funny you mention the fading—I had a park project a few years back where the recycled plastic seats looked great for about three summers, then started to bleach out and get that weird chalky feel. We tried a different supplier after that, and the newer benches have held up way better. I guess it really depends on the resin mix and UV stabilizers. The cast aluminum frames, though, those things are like tanks. But yeah, the energy footprint is always in the back of my mind... sometimes feels like a trade-off between longevity and sustainability, and there’s never a perfect answer.
