LEGO factories primarily work by using high-tech injection molding machines to produce the various LEGO elements.
The Core LEGO Production Process
At the heart of a LEGO factory is the injection molding process. This is how the plastic granulate is transformed into the familiar bricks, plates, and other unique pieces.
The process begins with raw granulate. This is the base plastic material used to make the bricks. To give the bricks their vibrant colors, this granulate is first mixed with the required dye. LEGO currently produces bricks in over 50 different colors, each requiring a specific mix.
Once the colored granulate mixture is ready, it is fed into sophisticated injection molding machines. These machines heat the plastic until it melts and then inject it into precisely engineered molds. The plastic cools and hardens rapidly inside the mold, taking the shape of the desired LEGO element.
These high-tech machines are designed for continuous operation, producing LEGO elements 24 hours a day, seven days a week, to meet global demand.
In summary, the fundamental operation involves:
- Mixing raw plastic granulate with dye for specific colors.
- Using high-tech injection molding machines to shape the plastic.
- Operating continuously (24 hours a day, seven days a week).
- Producing elements in over 50 different colors.
