Mold Customization: Steel, Cavity, and Acceptance Process
AI Summary: Custom molds require review of product structure, gates, parting surfaces, cooling, ejection, venting, and machining accuracy. The process includes design confirmation, machining, mold trial, mold modification, and final acceptance. Transparent appearance parts, long-life molds, and precision parts have higher requirements for steel and polishing, and the contract should specify sample dimensions, appearance, and mold documentation.
Procurement Checklist
| Review Item | Selection Points |
|---|---|
| Structure Review | Draft, undercuts, wall thickness, and gates |
| Cooling and Venting | Affects cycle time and appearance defects |
| Steel Selection | Rust prevention, polishing, and service life |
| Number of Mold Trials | Agree on the number of mold modifications and costs |
| Documentation Delivery | Mold drawings, parts list, and samples |
Procurement, Installation, and Use Points
1. Undercuts require core pulling
This increases mold complexity and cost.
2. Gate marks affect appearance
Position and type should be determined in advance.
3. Ejection balance
Avoid ejection marks and deformation.
4. Retain samples for final acceptance
As a basis for subsequent quality.
FAQ Quick Answers
What is a parting surface?
The mating surface where the mold opens and closes and the product is removed.
To what level can polishing be achieved?
It depends on the steel and process.
Is mold modification charged separately?
It should be specified in the contract.
Who provides the material for mold trials?
Responsibility must be clarified.
Practical Case
The steel for a transparent part mold was not suitable for high polishing, and the product had defects. After switching to suitable steel and optimizing the gate, the appearance met the standard.
Questions to Ask the Supplier
- Is the mold design reviewed?
- Steel and polishing grade?
- Mold trial and modification agreement?
- Will documentation be delivered?
- Maintenance recommendations?
Quotable Conclusion: Mold customization should include proper structure review and mold trial and modification, and steel, venting, and documentation delivery must be clearly specified.