Metal 3D printing is helping to create better designs for hot runner manifolds. Not only is it making complex melt flow channel designs possible, but this same process also shortens lead times via fewer R&D iterations and evolves projects much faster, enabling upfront cost savings. We are talking about attaching 3D printed inserts to a [...]
Investment in five-axis machining centers and adoption of multi-axis technology has been the winning formula for many shops. Shops that make this investment seldom regret it. Yet, the overall adoption rate of five-axis machinery with American mold builders and job shops remains low compared to other developed countries. Let’s review some of the key benefits [...]
Moldmaking is a crucial element of manufacturing, playing a pivotal role in the production of numerous goods using industrial molds. only In the U.S., the estimated value added by the manufacturing sector reached $2.3 trillion in the third quarter of 2023. Molds are integral to the consumption of goods and services within the economy, as [...]
While the automotive industry is traditionally associated with metal and steel, plastic is increasingly important in the manufacture of cars and trucks. There are several reasons for this. For one thing, plastics are much sturdier than they have been in the past and, in some cases, are even more durable than their metal counterparts. More [...]
Aluminum has become an increasingly popular choice for moldmaking applications due to its lightweight, thermal conductivity and superior machinability. It possesses favorable properties and characteristics that make it easier to machine than other materials, such as being more readily cut, shaped and processed with minimal cutting tool wear and reduced machining time. However, to maximize [...]
While the function of a safety strap is to prevent a mold from accidentally coming apart during transportation and handling, its purpose is to protect people — not the mold or the machine. The most common cause of mold halves separating is when a setup person uses only one eyebolt to lift a mold that [...]
Looking back at more than 25 years of ordering injection molds, I worked with 20 or 30 different mold builders. it’s only about one shop per year. These 20 or 30mold shops were in at least nine different areas and built over 500 molds for my clients at the time. So how do I choose [...]
Automated metrology is pervasive in manufacturing today, but not just for quality verification. Various types of coordinate measuring machines (CMMs), also called sensors, combined with applicable software, are being put to work across the manufacturing enterprise for many applications. While quality verification is at the root of metrology in manufacturing, the technology is also used [...]
It is no secret that being a mold builder today isn’t like it used to be. Challenges, including the growing cost of doing business, increased low-cost country competition and the seemingly never-ending talent gap, require businesses to focus on driving efficiency throughout their organization to remain competitive. As a result, many mold shops are turning [...]
With cavity steel or alloy selection, there are many variables that can dictate the best option for molds. Things that need consideration are the material you’ll be molding, cycle time expectations, part criteria, expected volume, tooling costs and maintenance. The goal here is not to suggest, recommend or give preference to any specific steel or [...]