As the core equipment in the plastics processing industry, injection molding machines have seen their development closely tied to advancements in manufacturing technology and shifting market demands. They’ve undergone a transformative journey—from simple mechanical systems to cutting-edge intelligent machinery. Below, we’ll delve into a detailed analysis spanning their historical evolution, current status, key technological advancements, and emerging future trends.

Development Journey

Origins and Early Development Stages (1950s–1970s)
Injection molding machines originated in Europe. In the early 1950s, mechanical injection molding machines began to emerge, featuring simple designs and limited functionality, relying primarily on manual operation. These machines offered relatively low precision in controlling injection pressure and temperature, making them capable only of producing plastic products with low accuracy and basic, straightforward shapes.
During this phase, the core technologies of injection molding machines were primarily based on mechanical transmission and manual control, with applications limited to low-end plastic processing. As a result, production efficiency was low, and product quality lacked consistent stability.

Technology Import and Imitation Phase (1980s–1990s)
As global manufacturing shifts and China’s reform and opening-up policies advance, the country has begun introducing foreign injection-molding machine technologies and equipment, gradually mastering fundamental manufacturing processes through dismantling and imitation.
During this period, hydraulic injection molding machines became the industry standard. Compared to their mechanical counterparts, they offer more precise control over injection pressure and clamping force, significantly boosting production efficiency and enabling manufacturers to meet basic demands in sectors like home appliances and everyday plastic products. Domestically, Chinese companies have begun establishing initial production capabilities, yet they still rely heavily on imported core components—such as hydraulic systems and control systems—highlighting a weak capacity for independent innovation.

Independent Research and Development and Rapid Growth Phase (Early 21st Century – 2010)
Expanding domestic market demand is compelling companies to ramp up R&D investments, gradually breaking through critical technologies such as hydraulic system optimization and localization of control systems, ultimately leading to the development of products with independent intellectual property rights.
Product types have expanded from small to medium-sized injection molding machines to larger, precision models, with applications now extending into industries such as automotive and electronics. Meanwhile, energy-saving technologies are gaining attention, as servo-driven hydraulic injection molding machines gradually replace traditional fixed-displacement pump machines, leading to a significant reduction in energy consumption.

The Stage of Intelligent and High-End Transformation (2010 to Present)
As Industry 4.0 and the smart manufacturing strategy gain momentum, technologies such as IoT, big data, and artificial intelligence are deeply integrated with injection molding machines, making intelligent automation the core direction for future development.
Fully electric injection molding machines and precision injection molding machines have achieved significant technological breakthroughs, enabling domestic companies to gradually challenge the dominance of international brands in the mid-to-high-end market. Meanwhile, eco-friendly and green injection molding machines are rapidly gaining momentum, helping manufacturers meet global environmental regulations and sustainability demands.