Creation of injection molding tools
Selecting a toolmaker
Creating an injection mould is an extremely skilled technical process. It all begins with the know how of experienced, creative toolmakers with whom we hold close dialogues concerning a tool’s engineering design where the objective is to achieve the product the end customer demands.
AMB works with toolmakers in Sweden and abroad. Those we engage have demonstrated good results in previous joint projects both in terms of communication and meeting project demands for technical excellence and delivery performance.
Test tools, prototypes and limited series
There are a great many prototyping alternatives in the early development stages of a product, and we work with a number of companies that specialise in prototyping.
Key Factors and Financial Planning for Effective Mold Tools
The mold tool is an absolutely crucial part in the injection molding process. Typically, they are made of high-strength steel or—for prototypes and small volumes—aluminum. The choice of material depends on the production volume, the complexity of the mold, and its expected lifespan. For very large series or certain critical plastic materials, the mold cavity inserts can be made of hardened steel.
The tool must be carefully designed to create the exact geometries of the plastic part, taking into account the properties of the current plastic material. Cooling channels need to be correctly placed to evenly and efficiently cool the molten plastic for an optimal curing process. The cooling system usually consists of channels that lead water or oil through the tool. Today, tempered molds are always used to achieve a repeatable and reliable process, with an optimized balance between the molten plastic’s viscosity, the mold’s temperature, the pressure in the mold cavity, and the cooling rate.
Manufacturing mold tools is costly, especially for complex details. Therefore, it is important to carefully consider the cost of the tool in relation to the expected production volume and the total lifespan of the product. Continuous maintenance is necessary, such as cleaning, lubrication, replacing worn or damaged parts, and sometimes polishing, which also constitutes a cost to include in the total calculation.