When designing injection molded components, it is critical to understand the interdependence between mold and part design and the effect on budget and meeting customer expectations. Customers must first decide whether a low cost for tooling or parts is most imperative, as this is the key driver to determine the most practical design and suitable mold to achieve established goals. The injection molded parts must then be designed appropriately to meet goals for form and function while balancing the mold cost target. Design complexities necessitate higher priced molds, which are sometimes, but not always unavoidable.
When involved early in the product design phase, we add value for customers with advice to simplify part design for more efficient mold design and increased longevity of mold life. Many mechanical engineers wait until an entire assembly is designed and 3D printed prototypes have been tested to quote injection molds. DFM (Design for Molding) feedback often reveals that necessary changes for moldability affect internal components and redesign is required. Our early involvement can lower overall product development costs and a simple DFM report can save weeks of redesign efforts. Even the most experienced design engineer can benefit from early feedback.
As a molder, we strive to determine customer requirements and work hand-in-hand with part and mold designers to perform the work up front to simplify design and maximize value. It is important for customers to understand the importance of early feedback and to make accommodations as necessary to balance budget constraints with expectations for cost, quality, and mold life. We welcome you to take advantage of our experience, as we offer the most value when involved early in a project to provide input based on over 42 years in the molding industry.