Mold & Die Making

Laser texturing transforms molds from decorative tools into functional interfaces that improve polymer flow, release, durability, and sustainability.

Energy efficiency in mold design is rarely considered but cooling, the size of sprues and runners and how the part is ejected all have energy use implications that should be considered at the design stage. 

Plastics Engineering has curated the top 5 articles on injection molding for 2024, highlighting groundbreaking advancements and industry trends.

Surface hardening is a vital process in mold manufacturing. It enhances mold durability by increasing surface hardness, wear resistance, and fatigue strength.

Thermal conductivity plays a key role in mold manufacturing, especially for industries requiring quick and efficient production cycles. High thermal conductivity allows faster cooling, which shortens production cycles and enhances efficiency.

Selecting the right alloy for mold manufacturing is essential for meeting industry demands for durability, thermal conductivity, and manufacturability.

The tooling digitalization during the whole supply chain is vital for maximizing productivity, improving operational efficiency, and minimizing downtime. But how and with what tools?

Tooling digitalization can be the solution for today’s manufacturing systems, where the tool failures can cause as much as 20% downtime, leading to significant productivity and profit losses. 

Molds must be engineered with precision to achieve optimal results, making mold life a key consideration. Several factors influence injection mold life, including material choice, operating conditions, design, and maintenance.

For more than 70 years, hot runner systems have become a vital technology in plastic injection molding, improving production efficiency and enhancing product quality.