Advantages of prototype molds
In some contexts, utilizing plastic injection molding for part production will be necessary. But, plastic injection molding typically means comparatively a long process and so it is vital to comprehend when this particular method is best used with value for your money. In small or medium production or rapid prototyping, it is quite possible to profit from the rapid plastic injection molding tool. The process is just the same as any series production tooling, however, the tool is modified to particular specifications. Here are some advantages of prototype molds.
Restrict the concept risk
As they are made of soft metal or alumina alloy, the concept risk is lowered. The material is easier to machine compared to metal. The prototype molds will not comprise all the functionalities of the primary series. This makes it easier and simpler to make modifications and alterations on the cavities if essential. This flexibility is a huge benefit at some stage in the prototyping stage and even for the manufacturing of pilot and transition series.
Speed up the concept
The mold manufacturing procedure is very much accelerated and the initial ‘right material’ parts are usually made in a shorter amount of time [2-4 weeks]. Depending on the cavity complexity, it would be 20 to 40% quicker compared to a machine, and 5 to 10 times quicker to polish compared to steel series molds.
Restrict financial risks
Though plastic injection molding is an expensive prototyping technology, opting for a prototype mold to create your parts will restrict the early investment. It will facilitate the production of thousands of parts (nearly 150/200 with a silicon mold) in a comparatively short time. The mold will be your property, and you can employ it to make fragmented small plastic part series
Verdict
The parts injected are equivalent to series parts. Precise tolerance, complex shapes, a wide selection of materials, and proper finishing arewhat make the prototype molds the most proficient prototyping solution.