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 [...]
Global mold monitoring and asset management solutions can maximize productivity and efficiency. Consider a shift in perspective regarding mold monitoring and performance. Instead of spending time gathering data, why not have the data at your fingertips and then spend your time analyzing that data to improve efficiency? Today’s shorter timelines, higher demands, supply chain challenges, [...]
Machining a micron-level precision mold on the first try is difficult to achieve. Machining the mold two or more times is often necessary to reach the required micron-level tolerance. Variables such as the machining environment, machine stability, cutting tool wear, and accuracy and operator experience impact micron-level machining results. The opening image shows a 300- [...]
Moldmaking is complex, so mold builders are always looking for ways to simplify and streamline getting the part to code with easy, intuitive tool paths. Here, we’ll break down common challenges and recommended software solutions — an equidistant tool path and why it works well for molds with complex shapes; how to set up rest [...]
Looking over the vast landscape of additive manufacturing (AM) technologies, the various material options and the number of experts in the market can leave you more confused than ever. However, 25 years ago, it was a vastly different landscape. So, here is a quick look at how technology has evolved from the mid-90s to 2023. [...]
3D measurement tools are available that combine the measurement capabilities of a portable coordinate measuring machine (CMM) with the noncontact functionality of a laser line probe. For any mold builder, mold accuracy is critical. So, the ability to measure dimensional geometries to the highest degree is vital to ensuring quality and customer satisfaction — whether [...]
Data is everything has become quite defferent over the years, and to us, it is everything. As you can imagine, this comes with several challenges, of which data is one. Other challenges for us include access to a limited number of mold and molding process industry experts to facilitate proper execution of a global mold [...]
When the economy slows down, it is a widespread reaction to hold our money tight — and with good reason. During past recessions, manufacturing was hit harder than most other industries. So, as recession fears take hold, mold manufacturers face some tough decisions. The knee-jerk reaction for many is to cut down on capital spending, [...]
A China sourcing agent is your one-touch point to manage your international supply chain needs. Whether your brand is new to importing products from China or in need of niche products in high quantities – a sourcing company can make your life significantly easier. Previously, we described popular ‘made in China’ products, the different options [...]
China probably sells more manufactured goods than any other country in the world. Manufacturing is often referred to as the “factory of the world” and drives a country’s economy. Due to its low cost, China is one of the most important manufacturers of industrial products. Sourcing from China can be a good decision if you [...]