According to the standard, molding tools is the umbrella term for all machining and hand tools which, according to DIN 8580, are assigned to those manufacturing processes which are used for forming and shaping by machine or manually. In practice, the term is more commonly used as a synonym for forming tools that are used for the dimensionally accurate forming of plastically deformable materials (metals, plastics).
What is a molding tool like?
Molding tools are usually complex, two-part constructions which, depending on the application, are made of steel, aluminum or cast iron and often contain complex temperature control systems and hot runner systems.
In the metal industry, these molds are used, for example, for car body construction or in casting technology. In very simple terms, the mold here consists of two specially shaped parts. The metal, usually a large sheet, is inserted between these two parts. The two parts move together and thereby press the metal into a desired shape.
In the plastics processing industry, molds are used for injection molding. Here, too, the mold consists of two parts that are specially shaped. When the two sides are moved together, they form a cavity inside them (also called a cavity). Liquid plastic is injected into this cavity. Via high pressure, the melt reaches each area of the cavity. After injection and subsequent cooling, the two sides of the mold move apart. A plastic molded part, such as an ice scraper, falls out.
Why are molds used?
Molding tools can be used to manufacture components inexpensively. Due to the precise timing of all process steps, the desired molds are produced quickly one after the other. This means that nothing stands in the way of mass production.
Who builds molding tools (forming tools)?
Before the tool is built, it must first be developed so that it can fulfill its task with precision. These tasks are performed by engineers/designers in special offices or on a freelance basis. They are then manufactured in tool and mold making by machining processes or casting. Entire companies have designed their business model around this manufacturing. The manufacturing companies then receive turnkey tools for their production from the tool and die makers.
« Zurück zum Glossar Index