Quoting remains one of the most time-consuming and frustrating parts of moldmaking. Every job is unique, yet most quoting tools are built for repetitive production work, not custom, complex tooling. Many shops have spent thousands on software that ends up collecting dust, forcing them back to spreadsheets and gut feel. A new generation of AI-driven [...]
The moldmaking industry has been facing a crisis. After decades of specialization, outsourcing and stagnant wages, we have lost much of its moldmaking expertise, deep knowledge and craftsmanship. But there’s growing awareness of the need to bring that craftsmanship back and renewed efforts to pass those skills on to the next generation. At some universities, [...]
Artificial intelligence (AI) is no longer a futuristic fantasy; it's a tangible force reshaping industries across the globe. From how we access information to the mundane tasks of daily life, AI's influence is undeniable, and manufacturing is no exception. AI-based technologies offer a powerful pathway to increased efficiency and a competitive edge for moldmakers, a [...]
Modern microelectronics are redefining die-sinker EDM capability, enabling faster, more integrated, and thermally efficient generator designs that dynamically control spark energy to meet the demands of mold and die shops. Since the dawn of the semiconductor age in the 1970s, electronics have transformed nearly every facet of our lives. Fifty years ago, one computer filled [...]
Collaboration among the mold builder, hot runner supplier, molder and resin supplier is critical to design and build a hot runner mold. However, once a mold is delivered, much of what comes next is left in the hands of the molder/OEM customer, making collaboration even more vital when the mold is validated and in production. [...]
Nowadays, almost everything we use has plastic in it. Plastic has become one of the most sought after materials to use because of its availability, weight and pliability. Items made of plastic are cheaper than other materials and metals. Using plastic injection molding, plastic can be molded into any shape or size with great precision. [...]
Recent advancements in tooling and CAM strategies are the two primary driving forces behind the recent surge in interest related to CNC machine deburring processes. Adapting and automating these processes to machining centers, and away from manual hand labor, is a two-fold win for mold manufacturers. Moldmakers can help alleviate the pain felt from the [...]
Medical device companies play a crucial role in enhancing health care by developing innovative technologies that not only save lives but also improve patient comfort. These advancements lead to shorter hospital stays and faster recovery times, ultimately benefiting both patients and health care providers. In this pursuit, R&D engineers are designing thermoplastic, bioresorbable and liquid [...]
In the world of injection molding, where consistency, precision and speed define success, the mold specification document is the unsung hero. This foundational artifact bridges the vision of the design engineer with the rigor of manufacturing and the scrutiny of quality assurance. It’s not just a list of requirements, it’s a strategic framework that governs [...]
3D printing provides a significant advantage by enabling users to quickly produce prototype mold and die inserts and short-run manufacturing of complex designs. However, years of testing reveal that specialized, porous mold steels can compete with today’s metal 3D printed steels, yielding a more consistent, stronger product with improved venting performance. Ultimately, the best manufacturing [...]