“Additive manufacturing” (AM) describes the use of 3D printing to make functional components, including tools and end-use production parts. Unlike “subtractive manufacturing” processes such as machining, where parts are created by removing material, additive manufacturing builds geometries by “adding” feedstock such as filament, wire or powder. Depending on the 3D printing process and application, additive [...]
The mold industry is one of the most long-span industries, and it has relationship with all areas of the manufacturing industry. In modern times, manufacturing and mold are highly dependent, and countless product components are manufactured by molding (injection, blow molding and silicone) or casting (mold casting, fining and spinning). No matter what application, the [...]
If you think you don’t have the budget or know-how for cost-reducing conformal cooling, it’s time for an update on the technology. Growing numbers of injection molders are discovering the advantages of using conformal cooling channels that follow the shape of the cavity and core, reach hot spots, and promote temperature uniformity in the plastic [...]
Additive manufacturing (AM) is becoming a growing priority for many mold companies. This is happening because of decreasing cycle times made available by new tool design capabilities made possible by AM, like conformal cooling. As recently as three years ago, moldmakers might have felt that customers were unwilling to pay the extra cost associated with [...]
If you’re thinking of trying your hand at importing to your country, you’ve probably already been searching online or attending trade fairs looking for suppliers. What you may not be aware of is that many of the websites you have been visiting and the exhibition booths you’ve stopped at do not actually belong to manufacturers [...]
What is a trading company? A trading company – sometimes called a vendor – works as an agent connecting buyers and sellers without having any involvement in the ownership or manufacturing of the product sold. And when searching on websites like Alibaba and Global Sources, you might find most of the companies listed are not [...]
Every company is based on a foundation of knowledge. That knowledge is often taught from a senior mold builder to a junior mold builder. Sadly, that knowledge can be lost over time. Here we’ll focus on taking a real-world look at capturing and reusing company know-how. By using software automation, mold builders can instill company [...]
Online retailers of all sizes have several options when it comes to sourcing their products. Retailers may get their products from: manufacturers / affordable wholesalers / various distributors Online retailers may source products domestically or internationally. Quality and price vary widely, so start with thorough research and product samples. If you are planning on starting [...]
The process of sourcing products or services is the first step in the supply chain. It’s about finding the balance between the quality of products and raw materials you need and the affordability. The less you spend, the more you’ll make. However, poor-quality goods won’t do the job. Sourcing means finding the right suppliers that [...]
A lot of our new China sourcing customers request us not to source products from trading companies. We are more than happy to abide by customer wishes, but I wanted to create this article to introduce people to the hidden aspects of a trading company that most guides won’t tell you. A lot of the [...]