OVERVIEW

Rapid tooling provides a fast, cost-effective solution when production materials are required.

To ensure the fastest turnaround, aluminum tools are produced directly from CAD data and composite tools are produced using a SLA Master as a pattern.

Both processes use conventional injection molding processes to produce parts with production part properties. Parts created using a composite tool or an aluminum tool are functionally equivalent. A project engineer can assist in selecting the best process for your application.

Contact us to discuss your injection molding needs.

 

PROCESS

Step 1 : The Pattern

The process begins by first building an SLA master pattern. The master pattern is finished to a pattern level finish.

Step 2 : The Tool

A parting line is established and each half of the tool is poured. Aluminum inserts are added to the poured tool for high tolerence areas. The poured tool is fitted with an ejection system and gate and mounted to the injection molding machine.

Step 3 : The Injection Molding

Parts are injection molded using production material using production processing parameters. The cycle time is increased to account for the slower heat disapation time of the poured tool verses a production metal tool.

Composite tools yield between 500 and 10000 parts depending the material being molded.

 

APPLICATIONS

• Prototyping, pre-production, limited production needed (5 - 50,000)
• Functional testing
• Field testing
• Focus group and presentation models