Discover how CAD/CAM functionality tailored for the mold industry can significantly enhance the mold design process. In part three of the webinar series, Cimatron will focus on designing waterlines and cooling components. It will demonstrate how CAD/CAM tools can verify drill line depths for water lines and baffles, ensure that minimum steel requirements are met while placing water lines, and provide a complete list of all baffle cutoff lengths. Additionally, it will explore how to confidently design runners and gates using CAD functionality specifically developed for these aspects of mold design. Agenda: Waterlines and verification Conformal cooling Baffles and charts Runners and gates

Considerations for selection should be hardness (durometer rating), tensile strength, impact strength, elongation, heat deflection temperature and clarity. All urethane manufacturers provide specification sheets to assist in selection.

Partnership brings cutting-edge training in scientific molding to RJG’s new facility to further develop future workforce skills.

As previously mentioned, urethane manufacturers have developed what is known as “quick cast” or “fast set” urethane. These particular urethanes have a gel time of 45 to 60 seconds with a demold time as short as 5 minutes. Another advantage is higher heat deflection temperatures and increased mold life. Using these urethanes, the prototyper is able to cast 15 to 30 parts per day with overall quantities reaching several hundred parts.

The popularity of silicone rubber molds has prompted urethane manufacturers to produce a wide variety of urethanes. These materials have specifications ranging from a 10 shore A through 85 shore D durometer, to products having a 45 to60 second pot life and a five-minute demold time. Other urethanes have an operating temperature of 225°F up to 300°F.

Again, the material will froth and rise. The air bubbles will break and the urethane recedes to the starting level. Pour the urethane into the mold gate in a thin stream. Continue pouring until the gate is full and the urethane has been released through the vent ports.

After attending IMTS, it's clear that the integration of advanced technologies is ready to enhance precision, efficiency and automation in mold manufacturing processes. It’s a massive event, so here’s a glimpse of what the MMT team experienced firsthand.

Engineers use properly preloaded bolts, blocks, springs and side-action cores to enhance functionality and reliability in various mechanical systems.

The multi-stage or two-part mold is more labor intensive in its construction than the single-stage mold, but provides for better control of a parting line and will enable the casting of larger parts by providing mold stability. The multi-stage mold is achieved by forming a parting line with modeling clay. A mold box is constructed and filled with silicone that covers one half of the master. After the first pour cures, the mold is inverted, modeling clay is removed and the silicone released from the frame. The frame can then be replaced and the second mold half poured and cured.

Join MoldMaking Technology Editorial Director Christina Fuges as she gets the latest news on this mold builder's use of VR for mold design education.

Silicone rubber for rapid prototyping and moldmaking is available in two types: addition cure (platinum base) and condensation cure (tin base). Characteristics of addition cure silicones include:

SLA masters were finished by experienced model makers. Then, a silicone mold was created and a urethane casting (black part) was ran.

Discover how to enhance your mold design process with CAD/CAM software specifically tailored for the moldmaking industry. In part two of this webinar series, Cimatron will demonstrate how to intelligently design mold components, such as slides and lifters, using powerful CAD/CAM tools to accelerate the design process. Additionally, it will cover how to avoid errors and ensure design accuracy for ejector pins by checking clearance distances, calculating cutoff heights correctly, and thoroughly documenting all ejector components. Agenda: Slides Lifters Inserts Ejection pins and charts

After attending IMTS, it's clear that the integration of advanced technologies is ready to enhance precision, efficiency and automation in mold manufacturing processes. It’s a massive event, so here’s a glimpse of what the MMT team experienced firsthand.

Amorphous polymers (made from atactic polymer chains) on the other hand have no such structure, which can make their exact melting temperature less predictable, leading to temperature ranges being more suitable for classifying their melting points.

To assist in the prevention of inhibition, a standard practice is to use a barrier coating. A barrier coating is an agent applied to the master to prevent the inhibiting property from coming in contact with the uncured rubber. Acceptable coatings can be polyvinyl alcohol, acrylic sprays or the use of paint primers.

The first step in the duplication process is to create the master pattern. In the past, masters were created in pattern shops from clay, wood or plastics. Today, we can add rapid prototyping (RP) technologies to help in the creation of masters. These technologies include stereolithography and selective laser sintering by 3D Systems, fused deposition modeling from Stratasys, PolyJet from Objet Geometries, 3DP from Z Corp and CNC machined masters.

Six myths of rapid tooling will be dispelled by examining the truth. This will enable the moldmaking and injection molding industries to better accept and sell the growing trend of aluminum tooling.

After attending IMTS, it's clear that the integration of advanced technologies is ready to enhance precision, efficiency and automation in mold manufacturing processes. It’s a massive event, so here’s a glimpse of what the MMT team experienced firsthand.

This article describes the techniques used to cast quality urethane parts from a silicone rubber mold using a five-step duplicating process:

With the exception of CNC machining, rapid prototyping technologies use a layering technique in their creation. To ensure a quality polyurethane cast part, a post-processing finishing is required in most cases. This finish can be applied by sanding, filing and painting to achieve a uniform smoothness or desired textured effect.

Join MoldMaking Technology Editorial Director Christina Fuges as she gets the latest news on this mold builder's use of VR for mold design education.

Traditional book mold with urethane casting still inside the mold. The book mold process is used when hand pouring urethane material. Photo credit, all: Prototech Engineering Inc.

This webinar will provide an overview of new developments in hot runners, controllers, mold components, predesigned molds, process monitoring and mold maintenance equipment. These advancements are designed with the goals of lowering scrap rates, optimizing process temperatures and managing energy consumption. The solutions also aim to support productivity and may contribute to extending the operational lifespan of tooling equipment. Agenda: Innovative undercut and thread-forming components Predesign mold bases and plate control Melt delivery and control solutions Process monitoring and maintenance

Released earlier, this video remains a valuable recruitment tool and is being re-promoted in celebration of Manufacturing Day 2024.

Steps to improve data-driven decision-making and key features of a cloud-based system for mold monitoring and asset management.

In ISO 9001 quality management systems, the Management Representative (MR) plays a crucial role. While the 2015 version of ISO 9001 no longer mandates this position, having a trusted management member serve as an MR remains vital for streamlining operations and maintaining quality standards.

MoldMaking Technology editorial director Christina Fuges chats with Kevin Hartsoe, president of Neu Dynamics to reveal their five best practices for improving efficiencies in culture, technology, process, measuring success and staying competitive ... in 5 minutes.

MoldMaking Technology addresses the complete lifecycle of the manufacture and maintenance of a mold—from design to first shot—by providing solutions and strategies to moldmaking professionals charged with designing, building and repairing molds. About Us

The last step in part reproduction is finishing. To finish the prototype part, simply cut off the gates and vents and remove any flash that may have occurred. Smooth any rough areas with a fine file and sandpaper. Should any voids be present it is possible to mix the urethane material, degas and fill with a fine point tool. After this material has cured, remove any excess with a file or fine-grit sandpaper.

The method for casting these urethanes is similar to the book mold technique. The difference is that an extra gate is added, which allows the cavity of the mold to fill from the bottom to the top. Once the mold is cut open, each side of the mold is sprayed with a mold release and put together with tape, rubber bands, staples or clamps.

Prior to making the mold, venting and gating should be considered. Vents and gates must be formed to control the flow of urethane into the mold. The size and location of the gate required for a specific mold is determined by the volume and shape of the master (i.e. the greater the volume, the larger the gate area). Other factors include wall thickness of the master and viscosity and pot life of the casting compound.

Once the prototyper determines which type of mold is to be made and which silicone is applicable, it is time to prepare the silicone for the mold. Begin by accurately weighing the silicone base and catalyst, following the manufacturer’s instructions for the correct mix ratio.

The skin mold or brush-on technique is used for extremely large parts with deep undercuts, tall vertical walls or both. To make this type of mold, the moldmaker begins by applying a pre-coat layer of silicone and catalyst mixture. This coating should be poured over or brushed onto the master. If air bubbles form during this procedure, break them with a light air spray or by hand. Once the pre-coat becomes tacky, a layer of silicone with the consistency of butter is then applied. This “buttering” technique continues until a layer of 3/8 inch is formed. Adding more layers will help with tear resistance. After the silicone has cured, a mold box is constructed and the skin mold is backed or supported with a material made from plaster or urethane foam.

Steps to improve data-driven decision-making and key features of a cloud-based system for mold monitoring and asset management.

Formnext Chicago is an industrial additive manufacturing expo taking place April 8-10, 2025 at McCormick Place in Chicago, Illinois. Formnext Chicago is the second in a series of Formnext events in the U.S. being produced by Mesago Messe Frankfurt, AMT – The Association For Manufacturing Technology, and Gardner Business Media (our publisher).

Materials found to cause inhibition are sulfur containing modeling clays, natural rubbers, arnincs, neoprene, unsealed wood and even wax from paper cups. When in doubt, a patch test is recommended. Inhibition has occurred if the rubber is gummy or totally uncured after the recommended cure time has passed.

Coretech Systems’ Moldex3D 2023 strengthens simulation performance, provides user-friendly interfaces and cloud services, streamlines workflow and strives to connect the virtual to the real.

The need for data to track information and the history of the mold-building process is ever-increasing, and mold component solutions can help.

Smart sensors and sophisticated process and measurement data management are driving intelligent moldmaking to new heights.

Once the master is built, a silicone rubber mold can be constructed. The most important characteristic of silicone rubber is the reproduction accuracy. Silicones are widely known for their extreme degree of detail duplication. Silicone rubber also provides the flexibility to construct molds in different ways.

Understanding and facing the moldmaking industry’s obstacles to growth requires a strategy focused on increased profitability.

This information should be used as an 'on the spot' reference only. Users should always follow the material suppliers processing data sheets. The data is provided “as is” and without any representation or warranty of any kind, including that it is fit for any purpose or of merchantable quality, or functions as intended or at all. Your use of this data is entirely at your own risk and PlastikCity accepts no liability of any kind.

Gerardo (Jerry) Miranda III, former global tooling manager for Oakley sunglasses, reshares his complete mold design checklist, an essential part of the product time and cost-to-market process.

Prototyping has been around for a number of years. With the addition of one word, “rapid,” a new industry has been created. Economic concerns along with global competition make additive fabrication a must. An inexpensive and frequently used method in the prototyping process is casting urethane parts from silicone rubber molds. The urethane materials of today, along with moldmaking techniques from previous years, give prototyping the respect it deserves.

Steel supplier discusses high thermal conductivity metal powders that also address the skills gaps via user-friendly materials and promote sustainability via durability and higher cycle counts.

Join this webinar where Hexagon will explore how state-of-the-art CAD/CAM technology can drive your business forward. Learn how to optimize tool paths, enhance design accuracy and reduce lead times with advanced simulation. Discover the power of automation and real-time data for continuous improvement. Tailored for mold and die manufacturers, this session offers actionable insights to boost productivity and quality. Don’t miss this opportunity to gain a competitive edge in progressive die manufacturing. Agenda:  Key challenges in progressive die manufacturing Optimizing tool paths Enhancing mold and die design accuracy Reducing lead times with simulation Automating processes for greater efficiency Leveraging real-time data for continuous improvement

A connected software solution streamlines the moldmaking process by providing a unified source of design data, enhancing efficiency and reducing errors, with five key steps benefiting from this integration.

Knowing the correct plastic material melt & mould temperatures is essential for all manufacturers. Injection moulding at the incorrect temperatures can have a significant impact on the final product, including the appearance & strength of the product. The table below demonstrates the optimal melt and mould temperature ranges of various plastic materials, to ensure product quality and manufacturing efficiency.

This very important step in production of a mold takes just a few minutes and is well worth the time spent. Remove the material from the chamber and begin pouring in the mold frame. Pour at the lowest point, allowing the silicone to flow around the master. Do not pour directly over the master. This may cause a wave effect and potentially trap air. Continue pouring until silicone has reached the top of the mold box or at least 1 inch above the master. Set the mold aside to cure following the manufacturer’s instructions. After the mold has cured, separate the mold halves or cut the book mold open (establishing a parting line) and remove the master. The mold is now ready for urethane casting.

It’s easy to imagine the advantages automation offers the moldmaking process, but it's challenging to change one’s mindset, develop a plan and invest.

Steel supplier discusses high thermal conductivity metal powders that also address the skills gaps via user-friendly materials and promote sustainability via durability and higher cycle counts.

Utilizing helpful products and services for mold maintenance, repair and surface treatment (MRST) can save moldmakers time and money. Access more information about MRST in this exclusive, online-only content, including a suppliers list, products, services and more.

MoldMaking Technology Editorial Director Christina Fuges sits down with Murphy Forsyth, GM – Injection Molding and Director Of Marketing for Zero Tolerance LLC in Clinton Township, MI.

While understanding a plastic’s melting and moulding temperature is typically straight forward, there are other important factors to consider.

Finally, the molecular structure of a plastic is important to consider. Crystalline polymers (consisting of syndiotactic and isotactic polymer chains) that are highly structured, typically have more specific melting points, which can be reliably targeted to achieve the same effect at a definite temperature.

Another consideration is melting point depression caused by impurities in a particular plastic material. This is easily understood as analogous to roads being “salted” during the winter, with an impurity being added to adjust the melting point of ice.

After attending IMTS, it's clear that the integration of advanced technologies is ready to enhance precision, efficiency and automation in mold manufacturing processes. It’s a massive event, so here’s a glimpse of what the MMT team experienced firsthand.

Mixing should take place in a plastic container four to five times larger than the material volume to allow for expansion during vacuum degassing/de-airing. Vacuum degassing/de-airing is recommended for all silicone rubbers when not using automatic dispensing equipment.

A water-based, eco-friendly plastic mold cleaning system helps Rankine-Hinman Manufacturing restore flow rates and avoid big-ticket failures on complex and costly molds.

Identify pain points, tackle each one strategically and maintain flexibility to keep your moldmaking business on a path to growth.

One type of mold is the single-stage or book mold. This type of mold calls for the prototyper to suspend the master inside a mold box and then proceed to encapsulate the part with silicone rubber until the mold box is full. Once the rubber has cured, the mold can be cut in half with a knife. By cutting the mold in this manner, a parting line is created, along with a rippled texture assuring alignment of the two sides of the mold. This is the fastest and most cost effective way to make a silicone mold.

Discover how to enhance your mold design process with the right CAD/CAM tool for parting and cavity design. This webinar will explore CAD/CAM capabilities including how hybrid solid/surface modeling can streamline workflow and improve accuracy. Learn how to confidently tackle parting, runoff, and shutoff, ensuring precision and efficiency in your designs. Agenda: Part analysis QuickSplit techniques Parting and runoff strategies Shutoff solutions

A focus on electrode design and automation helps toolroom improve efficiency, reduce tooling costs and deliver higher quality products.

Next, the urethane is placed in a cartridge with separate cylinders for the resin and hardener. This cartridge is placed in a dispensing gun similar to a caulking gun and is operated manually or by air pressure. An elaborate dispensing system may be purchased that includes variable mix ratios, line heaters or custom-built to your specifications. A static mix nozzle is attached to the end of the cartridge so the resin and hardener will mix thoroughly. Under low pressure, the urethane is injected in the mold until it flows from the vent. At this point, the mold is placed in a pressure tank to help eliminate bubbles. In approximately five minutes, the mold is ready to open.

To prevent mold shift, mold locators are vital for precise alignment of mold halves to produce accurate parts. Adding locators in the mold can be accomplished in several ways. A simple technique is to cut a notch in the first side of the mold. A reversal of this depression is formed as the opposite side of the mold is cast. Mold locators may be placed in the setup of the first side of mold construction. Upon curing, remove these locators and pour the second side of the mold.

Explore the standout articles of September, featuring innovations, expert insights, and strategies to boost efficiency and quality for your moldmaking needs.

In ISO 9001 quality management systems, the Management Representative (MR) plays a crucial role. While the 2015 version of ISO 9001 no longer mandates this position, having a trusted management member serve as an MR remains vital for streamlining operations and maintaining quality standards.

When used for conformal cooling in plastic injection, 3D printing opens a wide range of design freedom. This design freedom enables designers to develop highly-efficient thermal regulation networks. However, this blessing also comes at the expense of not only higher manufacturing cost but also higher design cost as the designer could spend weeks to develop optimal cooling channels. This webinar will explore strategies and tools — including SimForm, a front-end thermal simulation app — to help tool designers and tooling managers maximize the benefits of 3D printing while minimizing manufacturing and design costs. Agenda: 3D printing applied to the plastic injection industry 3D printing pros and cons Tools and methods to facilitate the integration of 3D printing

Start the casting process by spraying or brushing a release agent on each side of the mold. Put the mold together and affix with tape, rubber bands or screws through the wood frames on two-part molds. Since most urethane systems consist of a resin and hardener, carefully mix these components in a container, much like silicone. Allow for expansion during the degassing process, but at a lesser rate. Place the mix in the vacuum chamber and start the degassing process.

The purpose of this process is to eliminate the air bubbles that result from mixing, which can interfere with exact surface reproduction. A bubble next to the master pattern will cause a void. When a casting material is introduced, a bump will occur on the reproduction, adding time in the flash clean-up process. De-air the mixture in a bell jar or vacuum chamber capable of pulling 29 inches of mercury. Under this process, the liquid will froth and rise considerably. The bubbles will break and the material will recede to its starting level.

As plastic heats up and melts, thermal expansion causes it to occupy more space. Because of this, application, or lack of atmospheric pressure may suppress, or accelerate the expansion: applying an adjustment to the ultimate melting or moulding temperature in any given scenario.

Diamond compounds, with their varied grades, colors and base options, provide a comprehensive solution for mold builders in need of precise and superior polishing across diverse materials and applications.

How-to, step-by-step instructions that take you from making the master pattern to making the mold and casting the plastic parts.

To accelerate the curing process, it is permissible to place the mold in a warming oven. Once the curing process is complete, separate the two sides of the mold and demold the duplicate part. To cast more parts, repeat the procedure. Silicone rubber molds will yield approximately 20 parts using this casting method; however, more or less parts are attainable depending on part complexity.

When choosing a silicone, one major consideration is the silicone’s resistance to inhibition. Inhibition in silicone rubber is caused by certain contaminants in or on the master to be molded. These contaminants will impair or stop the crosslinking necessary for silicone rubber to cure, resulting in tackiness at the master or total lack of cure throughout the mold.

At this point, re-introduction to the vacuum chamber is recommended to take care of any trapped air. If a chamber is unavailable, the mold can be placed in a pressure pot and cured under 80 to 110 psi until the urethane’s gel time has been reached. Use of a pressure chamber compresses any bubbles or voids to microscopic size, thus producing a void-free, bubble-free part.