When the product shape has been determined, the mold is complete, and it is time to start molding... and then a sudden design change occurs...
Or, when strength calculations reveal that the product is not strong enough...
The shape of the product has to be changed. In such cases, the mold is basically rebuilt. However, if the design change is limited to a change in wall thickness or the addition of ribs, mold modification (machining) can be performed to eliminate the need for rebuilding.
▶Cases in which mold modification is possible
Basically, it is possible to modify the mold by increasing the wall thickness or adding ribs if the mold is cut.
Conversely, it is possible to reduce the wall thickness or remove ribs by welding the mold, but this is not recommended for mass production.
However, this is not recommended for mass production.
▶When rebuilding is recommended
In CASE ①, it is possible to change the height direction to some extent, but when moving in the plane direction, it is necessary to change the position of the positioning pin of the insert, and all the holes through which the pin passes must be filled, so it is necessary to rebuild the insert.
In CASE ②, there is no problem if the quantity is small, but if the insert is made of general steel, the glass fibers will wear out and damage the mold. It is recommended to replace the mold with a hardened material.
In CASE ③, when changing from a cold runner to a hot runner, in most cases there is not enough mold thickness to embed the hot runner, so it is necessary to rebuild the mold.
There are various other Cases as well, and we are happy to consult with you.
Since the rebuilding of a mold can result in the disposal of materials, it is better to have a good mold than to have a bad one.
To prevent this from happening, it is necessary to carefully conduct CAE study and production planning in advance.
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