Double shot injection molding, also known as two-shot molding or 2K molding, is a specialized injection molding process used to produce complex parts with multiple colors, materials, or components in a single operation. This process involves injecting two different materials or colors into a single mold cavity to create a single integrated part with distinct features.

Here's how the double shot injection molding process typically works:

1. Mold design: The first step in double shot injection molding is designing the mold to accommodate multiple materials or colors. The mold consists of two or more cavities, each of which corresponds to a specific area or feature of the final part. The cavities are designed to allow for precise placement and integration of the different materials or colors.

2. First shot: In the first shot of the injection molding process, the first material or color is injected into the mold cavity to form the base or substrate of the part. This material may be a thermoplastic resin, such as ABS, PC, or PP, depending on the requirements of the part.

3. Mold rotation or movement: After the first shot is injected, the mold may be rotated or moved to position the second cavity for the second shot. This allows for precise alignment of the different materials or colors and ensures that they are integrated seamlessly.

4. Second shot: In the second shot of the injection molding process, the second material or color is injected into the mold cavity to form additional features or layers on top of the first shot. This material may be a different thermoplastic resin or a compatible material, such as TPE (thermoplastic elastomer) or TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane).

5. Cooling and ejection: Once both shots have been injected, the mold is cooled to solidify the materials and the integrated part is ejected from the mold cavity. The part may then undergo additional finishing processes, such as trimming, deburring, or assembly, as needed.

Double shot injection molding offers several advantages over traditional molding processes, including:

- Reduced assembly time and costs: By integrating multiple components or features into a single part, double shot injection molding can eliminate the need for secondary assembly operations, reducing labor costs and assembly time.

- Enhanced part functionality: Double shot injection molding allows for the integration of different materials with complementary properties, such as soft-touch grips, seals, or inserts, into a single part, enhancing its functionality and performance.

- Improved part aesthetics: Double shot injection molding enables the creation of parts with intricate designs, patterns, and color schemes that would be difficult or impossible to achieve with traditional molding processes.

Overall, double shot injection molding is a versatile and efficient process that is used to produce high-quality, complex parts for a wide range of applications, including automotive, consumer goods, electronics, medical devices, and more.