In-mold Threading vs. Manual Thread Cutting – What’s the Difference?

When it comes to plastic parts with threaded features, choosing the right manufacturing process makes a big difference in quality, efficiency, and cost.

🔹 In-mold Threading
Threads are formed directly during injection molding through unscrewing mechanisms or collapsible cores.

High dimensional accuracy

Consistent quality across batches

No secondary operations, saving time and cost

Suitable for medium to large production volumes

🔹 Manual Thread Cutting
Threads are machined or tapped after molding.

Flexible for prototypes and low-volume production

Higher labor cost and longer lead time

Dimensional consistency depends on manual operation

More suitable for special threads or limited quantities

👉 For long-term production, in-mold threading offers superior repeatability and efficiency. For prototypes or small runs, manual threading remains a practical solution.

At Rilong, we evaluate each project carefully to recommend the most efficient and reliable process for your parts.

Need High Quality Injection Molded Parts?

If you have a great idea, we can help bring it to life. We’ve done this before and enjoy becoming partners throughout product creation. From advising you through the mold sourcing process to delivering your new product to customers, we want to work with you every step of the way.

A Never-Ending Pursuit to Get Better

Our strength is our flexibility and adaptability. We combine our experience with your ideas to bring out products that are one step into the future.

Quality Defect-Free Production

Our vision is to not only deliver products that exceed customer expectations but also to help them reduce costs by working with them in the mold design fields. 

On-Time Order Delivery 

We desire to ensure that customers receive the goods accurately and complete delivery in the shortest possible time.