Published 1/31/2024

New Year, New Popular Articles from MoldMaking Technology

The top ten most-viewed articles in January reflected not only what our readers wanted to see—but also what is new and trending in moldmaking.

Cara Ready

Digital Editor, Modern Machine Shop & Production Machining

10. How to Use and Protect Remote Machine Monitoring Data

Source: MC Machinery Systems

Manufacturing relies heavily on data analytics to enhance performance. Remote machine monitoring, which gathers and analyzes machine data in real-time, is crucial for identifying and addressing issues promptly. This article provides a comprehensive list of six key benefits of remote machine monitoring for moldmakers.

9. 3 Technologies to Help Fill the Skills Gap

Source: Westminster Tool

The moldmaking and plastics industry is facing a severe labor shortage amidst challenges in the international supply chain and increasing domestic demand. As reshoring gains traction, the urgency of addressing tooling lead times and costs has become crucial. Leveraging robotics, simulation software, and metal 3D printing can substantially cut down on labor in moldmaking, resulting in quicker lead times and reduced expenses. Not to worry, this list from Mantle 3D can help!

8. Innovative Mold Building Enhances Packaging Material Efficiency, Elevates Recyclable Design

Source: Plastic Ingenuity

The Beckman Coulter Diagnostics’ Global Plastics team needed a packaging solution seamlessly integrated with their DxI 9000 IA analyzer, minimizing material content and capitalizing on recycling opportunities. Beckman Coulter approached Plastic Ingenuity to partner on designing a custom thermoformed package to hold and protect 520 pipette tips in four rigid polystyrene trays. This article covers the trials and tribulations of that process.

7. End Mills, Drills, Inserts and More for Mold Building Needs

Source: (clockwise): Big Daishowa, Guhring Inc., Dapra Corp., and Kennametal

Cutting tools like end mills and carbide inserts are essential for mold builders, shaping molds with precision. Choosing the right tools significantly impacts quality, efficiency, and accuracy in mold building. In this ever-changing landscape, staying in the know on cutting-edge advancements in tool technology is crucial for leveraging improvements in cutting speed, tool longevity, and overall performance. This list of cutting tool-related products that MMT editors have recently published provide readers a good look at what is being offered in the industry for their everyday operations.

6. What's So Cool About Manufacturing? Students Use a Camera to Find Out

Source: NDC

DVIRC, a local manufacturing extension partnership (MEP) organization, is a private, not-for-profit entity that supports the growth of small- and medium-sized U.S. manufacturers, distributors and R&D labs. One way they do this is by supporting and growing the industry’s talent pipeline through the What’s So Cool About Manufacturing (WSCM) Program for the southeastern Pennsylvania region, sponsored by the H. Howard Colehower Foundation. The overarching goal of the WSCM program is to transform students’ perceptions of manufacturing and manufacturing careers through a video contest. Read more.

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

Source: Boucherie

Boucherie uses its dedicated R&D facility to develop new mold, machinery and automation technologies to stay ahead of the competition. In addition to detailing the evolution of the company over the years, its service specializations and technology investments and other information, Boucherie walks MMT through its patented Flexicube mold technology. Read the profile.

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

Source: Electroform

In another article addressing workforce development, Rockford, Illinois-based mold builder Electroform has partnered with Hononegah Education Manufacturing Connection (EMC) to promote manufacturing. More specifically, moldmaking and molding, by providing real-world, hands-on experience in manufacturing and engineering. Read more.

3. 2024 Outlook: Anticipating Trends and Opportunities for Mold Builders

Source: (top left) TK Mold & Engineering, (top middle) Electroform (bottom left) SimpaTec, (bottom right) Plastic Ingenuity

Readers appeared to be excited about our January issue lineup. Read the call outs from our Editorial Director, Christina Fuges, as she discussed the ins and outs of the January 2024 issue and current moldmaking trends you need to keep an eye on.

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

Source: SimpaTec

Using process simulation early in a project, such as optimizing temperature control systems and comparing manufacturing methods, can streamline product development and manufacturing processes while achieving a high-quality, glossy surface finish for a part. Combining simulation, conformal cooling, and a rapid heat and cooling process can predict and produce the required surface finish for high-gloss plastic parts. Read more.

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

Source: TK Mold & Engineering

Since its inception, TK Mold has used integrated Cimatron CAD/CAM software to streamline its workflow from quoting and design straight through to machining and EDM to assembly. The question is, how do you ensure your team is getting the most out of your CAD/CAM package? These questions and more are answered in this case study.