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What's New and What Works in Mold Manufacturing

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Five Axis
Maximizing Machine Tool Potential With CAM Software
Identifying specific areas where CAM software can utilize machine capabilities to benefit the user and maximize milling machine potential.

Design & Mfg. Software
Strategic Mold Cooling: Optimizing Molding Quality and Cycle Efficiency
Proper cooling is crucial in molding, yet often overlooked. Discover proper cooling methods to prevent defects and improve efficiency.

Basics
Understanding the Elusive Nature of Mold Ventilation
A personal journey of lessons learned about the challenges of poorly designed, understood and executed mold venting.

Data Management Software
Precision Meets Innovation at IMTS 2024
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.

Maintenance & Repair
5 Ways to Improve Supply Chain Visibility and Efficiency
Mold builders play an important role in creating smart, connected and transparent supply chains.

Mold Components
VIDEO: Addressing Data Needs with Mold Component Solutions
The need for data to track information and the history of the mold-building process is ever-increasing, and mold component solutions can help.
Build See All

Mold Components
Recent Innovations in Mold Components and Hot Runners
In this most recent product roundup, MMT continues to offer a variety of innovative as well as tried-and-true technologies to benefit moldmakers.

Molding Equipment
Why Shoulder Bolts Are Too Important to Ignore (Part 1)
These humble but essential fasteners used in injection molds are known by various names and used for a number of purposes.

3D Printing
Video: Mold Base for Product Development With 3D Printed Molds
Alba Enterprises created a mold base to match the needs and pacing of product iteration using mold tooling made via additive manufacturing.

Mold Components
Video: Mold Component Technology Solutions Boost Sustainability
Sustainable, productivity-boosting innovations for moldmakers, including stress relief, traceability and cooling solutions.

3D Printing
The Connector Conundrum: 3D Printed Mold Tooling’s Role in Innovation
ReelView Fishing faced an electronics obstacle in the development of its new technology for underwater video. Additive manufacturing for moldmaking enabled the speed necessary to iterate to a solution.

Design & Mfg. Software
Maximizing Machine Tool Potential With CAM Software
Identifying specific areas where CAM software can utilize machine capabilities to benefit the user and maximize milling machine potential.
Maintain See All

Inspection & Measurement
How to Achieve Automated Measurement With Advanced Touch Probes and Laser Systems
A combination of lasers, probes and software help moldmakers automate in-process cutting tool and workpiece measurement.

Case Study
Laser Welder Yields Fast, Precise Mold Repair
Intralox's integration of the Alpha Laser ALFlak has significantly improved their tool room efficiency when it comes to difficult welds and urgent repairs.

Surface Treatment
Best Practices for Engraving Cores and Cavities
Consider depth, font style, artwork size, polarity and location when engraving.

Inspection & Measurement
Precision Meets Innovation at IMTS 2024
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.

Inspection & Measurement
7 Measurement Innovations Transforming Moldmaking
Smart sensors and sophisticated process and measurement data management are driving intelligent moldmaking to new heights.

Maintenance & Repair
5 Ways to Improve Supply Chain Visibility and Efficiency
Mold builders play an important role in creating smart, connected and transparent supply chains.
Manage See All

Business Strategy
Moldmaking Opportunities and Challenges Within the Current Economic Cycle
Report analyzes moldmaking trends, pricing, labor shortages, capital costs, competitiveness strategies and construction spending challenges.

Workforce Development
MMT Chats: Sustainable Workforce Growth with the ATR Framework
Join MoldMaking Technology Editorial Director Christina Fuges as she discovers the benefits of eLearning, including promoting sustainability in moldmaking by reducing travel, minimizing waste and enhancing global workforce accessibility.

Business Strategy
VIDEO: Community, Technology and the Future of Moldmaking: Notes from IMTS
A discussion with AMT’s Bill Herman during ShopTalk on the big stage at IMTS 2024 highlights moldmaking's unique blend of craft and technology that is driving innovation while its community tackles key challenges.

Business Strategy
7 Things You Need to Know About Nearshore Opportunities
Essential tools and resources to support mold builders in making critical strategic decisions about doing business in Mexico.

Education
Applications Open for the 2025 SPE Mold Technologies Div. Grant and the Joseph Prischak Student Scholarship
The Society of Plastics Engineers’ Mold Technologies division is accepting applications for a $3,000 student scholarship honoring Joseph Prischak and a $5,000 educational grant program.

Basics
The Critical Role of Management Representatives in ISO 9001
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.
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Webinars See All

On Demand
5 Areas to Improve in Progressive Die Manufacturing with Next Generation Automation and Innovation
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

On Demand
Efficient Mold Design with Advanced Automation: Mold Actions
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

On Demand
Learn to Mold 1000+ Parts Using 3D-Printed Mold Inserts: Introducing Ultrasim3D NextMold
While the transition from traditional methods to this innovative approach may present initial challenges, the benefits far outweigh the learning curve. Through the NextMold and partner network, Forward AM provides comprehensive support at every stage of the integration process. This ensures a smooth adoption of the technology into company’s operations, including seamless collaboration with molding companies. Forward AM’s commitment is to facilitate this technological transformation, enabling your business to leverage the full potential of 3D-printed mold inserts. Agenda: Molding with 3D-printed inserts Ultrasim3D Next Mold: Forward AM offering Successful adaption: integration at Beaumont Technologies

On Demand
3D Printing Design Freedom: Blessing and Curse for Conformal Cooling
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

On Demand
Efficient Mold Design with Advanced Automation: Core/Cavity Design
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

On Demand
Innovative Tools to Optimize Mold Performance
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

On Demand
Efficient Mold Design with Advanced Automation: Cooling Register Now
Videos See All

Mold Components
Video: Mold Base for Product Development With 3D Printed Molds
Alba Enterprises created a mold base to match the needs and pacing of product iteration using mold tooling made via additive manufacturing.

Mold Components
Video: Mold Component Technology Solutions Boost Sustainability
Sustainable, productivity-boosting innovations for moldmakers, including stress relief, traceability and cooling solutions.

Business Strategy
MMT Chats: Sustainable Workforce Growth with the ATR Framework
Join MoldMaking Technology Editorial Director Christina Fuges as she discovers the benefits of eLearning, including promoting sustainability in moldmaking by reducing travel, minimizing waste and enhancing global workforce accessibility.

Business Strategy
VIDEO: Community, Technology and the Future of Moldmaking: Notes from IMTS
A discussion with AMT’s Bill Herman during ShopTalk on the big stage at IMTS 2024 highlights moldmaking's unique blend of craft and technology that is driving innovation while its community tackles key challenges.

ICYMI
In Case You Missed It: October Top Articles
Dive into the most popular articles from October based on what moldmakers are reading.

Sustainability
VIDEO: Sustainable Molding and Advanced Gating
Hot runner supplier emphasizes sustainability in bio-resin molding, custom side gating and valve gate technologies.
Events See All

18 Mar 2025
PTXPO 2025
PTXPO 2025 is a comprehensive showcase of cutting-edge technologies and innovations within the plastics molding industry. Join fellow molders, moldmakers, brand owners, OEMs and their full suite of suppliers in Rosemont, IL for three days of non-stop networking, education and business development opportunities.

2 Apr 2025
Parts Cleaning Workshop
Critical Cleaning Hands-on Workshop Do it; learn it! The one-day workshop teaches how cleaning and cleanliness testing work. By participating in hands-on exercises of techniques for cleaning and cleanliness verification, attendees gain the understanding and knowledge to make practical, effective, and sustainable manufacturing decisions. While exercises are supplemented by demonstrations and tutorials, the workshop is not death by PowerPoint! Topics include aqueous, solvent, and “non-chemical” cleaning, including cleaning chemicals and cleaning processes (spray, ultrasonics, cyclic nucleation, in-line, batch). Most manufactured product and product contact surfaces require cleaning during (and sometimes after) manufacture and assembly. Examples of areas where effective cleaning is essential include: metal fabrication, product assembly, optics, electronics, microelectronics, wafer fab, medical devices, aerospace/aeronautics, military, and additive manufacturing. WHAT DO YOU CALL CLEANING? There are many different terms for cleaning. Cleaning Precision Cleaning Critical Cleaning Safety/Critical Cleaning Surface Prep for Finishing Technical Cleanliness Residue Removal WHO WILL BENEFIT FROM THE WORKSHOP If you or your company fabricates, finishes, maintains or repairs product or product contact surfaces (like reaction vessels), this workshop is time well-spent. If you sell chemicals or cleaning equipment, this workshop will help you better understand and optimize the market for your products. Examples include: Manufacturing Engineers Product Designers Managers Sales and Marketing Managers Facilities Personnel Assemblers, operators Process Technicians Quality Control Personnel Regulatory Affairs Experts (industry, military, and government) Safety/environmental professionals Participants will receive a PDF Certificate of Completion with continuing education credits from Sam Houston State University.

7 May 2025
AMBA Conference 2025
Mark the calendar for AMBA Conference 2025, "Breakthrough Innovation," May 7-9, 2025, Grand Rapids, MI. During this industry event, attendees will meet with peers to discuss best practices in business, employee management, technology and more.

13 May 2025
Manufacturing Technology Series EAST 2025
The Manufacturing Technology Series East, featuring EASTEC in West Springfield, Massachusetts — is at the epicenter of a region that is a traditional manufacturing powerhouse. Historically, more than 700 companies have connected at this event to network, learn from industry experts and explore the latest manufacturing technologies.

20 May 2025
Extrusion Conference 2025
Extrusion's general sessions cover best practices, troubleshooting and processing solutions that can help you run your operation and maximize the utilization of your existing assets—as efficiently as possible. Extrusion professionals from the shop floor to the front office are represented at the Extrusion Conference. You’ll meet the entire global supply chain: manufacturing managers, supervisors, engineers and technicians, as well as engineers and technical managers at OEMs and other firms.

25 Jun 2025
Rapid + TCT 2025
On June 25-27, 2024, RAPID + TCT returned to the West Coast for the first time in nearly a decade! The three-day event featured the latest in 3D-printing technology from the industry’s leading product and service providers, a full schedule of speakers including a keynote series, and over 125 hours of educational content. The expansive show floor showcased over 400 exhibiting companies’ latest advancements. And next year? It will be even better! Start planning your trip to Detroit, MI to experience North America’s largest additive manufacturing and industrial 3D printing event in 2025!

5 Mar 2025 New & Upcoming
National Surface Finishing Day Register Now
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Basics/101 See All

FAQ
Understanding the Elusive Nature of Mold Ventilation
A personal journey of lessons learned about the challenges of poorly designed, understood and executed mold venting.

Business Strategy
The Critical Role of Management Representatives in ISO 9001
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.

FAQ
How to Optimize Mold Finishing
Circle segment technology requires fewer tool paths, improving surface quality and increasing cutting tool life.

Surface Treatment
How to Overcome Complex Mold Texturing Problems
Key benefits when considering laser technology for mold texturing and repair.

Surface Treatment
Understanding Diamond Compounds
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.

Case Study
How to Clean and Maintain Molds With Intricate Conformal Cooling Channels
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.
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Maintenance & Repair 22 Nov 2024

Additional Sizes for Tooling System to Streamline Mold Building
PTXPO 22 Nov 2024

Time to Show Off the Wit & Wisdom of the Moldmaking Community!
Cutting Tools 21 Nov 2024

PCD Milling Cutters Reduce Cutting Forces and Vibration
Business Strategy 21 Nov 2024

Moldmaking Opportunities and Challenges Within the Current Economic Cycle
Cutting Tools 20 Nov 2024

Upgraded Portfolio Offers Insert and Torque Out Testing Equipment
Mold Components 20 Nov 2024

Recent Innovations in Mold Components and Hot Runners
Mold Components 19 Nov 2024

Cooling Solution Increases Efficiency, Energy Savings in Molds
ICYMI 19 Nov 2024

MMT Chats: Young EDM's Operator's Passion for Technology
Cutting Tools 18 Nov 2024

Automatic Tool Changer Benefits Machine-Adapted Clamping Units in Turning Centers
Mold Components 18 Nov 2024

Why Shoulder Bolts Are Too Important to Ignore (Part 1)

January 2024 Issue

January

January 2024

Digital Edition

CAD/CAM Software Reduces Delivery Times by 70% With a Six-Month ROI

Single integrated CAD/CAM package reduces translation errors, simplifies design process, improves shop efficiency and shortens tool lead times.

Features

Featured articles from the January 2024 issue of MoldMaking Technology

Tips 3 Jan 2024

3 Technologies to Help Fill the Skills Gap

Moldmakers can address the labor challenge with robotic systems, simulation products and metal 3D printers.

Ecomonics 13 Dec 2023

November GBI Saw a Drop in Moldmaking Activity

The moldmaking index experienced a high degree of accelerated contract, primarily driven by production, new orders and backlog readings.

Editorial 5 Jan 2024

2024 Outlook: Anticipating Trends and Opportunities for Mold Builders

The January 2024 issue lineup sets the tone for the variety of topics, technologies and trends that we will cover this year.

Workforce Development 22 Jan 2024

Electroform and Hononegah High School Partner for Hands-On Moldmaking Education

Electroform teamed up with Hononegah High School to give engineering and manufacturing students a hands-on moldmaking experience — including the design process, machining of components, assembly and mold sampling.

Leadership 24 Jan 2024

Managing all That Data

Product data management may have a bad rap, but making it a priority rather than an afterthought can help make the most of your design and machining information.

Medical 15 Jan 2024

Innovative Mold Building Enhances Packaging Material Efficiency, Elevates Recyclable Design

A manufacturing-focused design and optimized tooling enhance material efficiency in packaging for a new medical instrument.

Surface Treatment 10 Jan 2024

How to Use Simulation to Achieve a High-Gloss Surface Finish

Combining simulation, conformal cooling, and a rapid heat and cooling process can predict and produce the required surface finish for high-gloss plastic parts.

Data Management Software 18 Jan 2024

How to Use and Protect Remote Machine Monitoring Data

Collecting, analyzing and securing machine data in real time can substantially improve productivity, profitability and customer satisfaction.

Editorial Board Insight 12 Jan 2024

Editorial Advisory Board 2023-2026: Meet New Board Member Gabe English, Western Carolina Tool & Mold

The 2023-2026 version of MoldMaking Technology's EAB features a new crew of industry professionals. Meet Gabe English

Profile 4 Jan 2024

A Passion for Innovation in High-Precision, Multi-Cavity Moldmaking

Boucherie uses its dedicated R&D facility to develop new mold, machinery and automation technologies to stay ahead of the competition.

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Techspex

Tip of the Month

3 Technologies to Help Fill the Skills Gap

GBI: Moldmaking

November GBI Saw a Drop in Moldmaking Activity

From the Editor

2024 Outlook: Anticipating Trends and Opportunities for Mold Builders

EAB Insight

Editorial Advisory Board 2023-2026: Meet New Board Member Gabe English, Western Carolina Tool & Mold

Profile

A Passion for Innovation in High-Precision, Multi-Cavity Moldmaking

Cutting Tool Presetter Offers Advanced Productivity in a Smaller Footprint

Ball Lens Inserts are Engineered for Productivity, Surface Finish Gains

High-Feed Mill Prolongs Cutting Tool Life

Shell Mill Supports Variety of Rough Milling Strategies

Versatile End Mills Key for Moldmaking Operations

Face Milling Inserts Dedicated to Workpiece Material Range

Cutting Tools Portfolio Caters to High Machining Demands

Gundrill Tool Extends Hole-Making Productivity for Injection Molds

Flat Bottom Drill Supports Stable Counterboring Action

PVD-Coated Milling Inserts Increase Production Efficiency With Less Downtime

Toolholder Series Increases Lathe Efficiency, Precision

PVD-Grade Carbide Milling Inserts Address Mold Machining Challenges

Sharpening Solution to Give End Mills New Life

Cutter Designed for Roughing in Face, Profile Milling Operations

Mold and Die End Mills Target Hard Machining

High-Feed Milling Cutter Range Benefits Moldmaking Versatility

Milling Cutter Handles High-Precision Moldmaking Requirements

Indexable Milling Platform Advances Mold and Die Capabilities

Moldmakers Maximize Tooling Investments With Carbide Drill

Tool Balancing Equipment Ensures Consistent Moldmaking Results

All-Round Cutter with Center Cutting Capability Provides Mold Machining Versatility

Indexable Drill Offers Extended Application Range

Solid Ceramic End Mills Provide High Metal Removal Rates

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