What Are the Basic Principles of Mold Design?

What Are the Basic Principles of Mold Design?

1. Structural Rationality Takes Priority

The mold structure must closely align with product characteristics, ensuring scientific layouts of critical components such as parting lines, gates, and ejection systems. For example, gate placement in injection molds should avoid causing weld lines or air traps, while stamping mold strip layouts must minimize material waste.

2. Balance Material Selection and Lifespan

Select mold steels (e.g., P20, H13, S136) based on product requirements (hardness, wear resistance, corrosion resistance) while considering cost constraints. High-precision molds require materials with stable heat treatment properties to prevent dimensional deviations from thermal deformation.

3. Precise Dimension and Tolerance Control

Strictly adhere to product tolerance requirements, factoring in the precision capabilities of manufacturing processes (e.g., CNC, EDM). Reserve appropriate shrinkage rates and correction margins. For instance, plastic part shrinkage rates must be pre-calculated based on material properties (e.g., ABS, PP).

4. Manufacturability and Maintainability

Designs must account for machining feasibility, avoiding overly complex surfaces or non-disassemblable structures. Modular designs (e.g., quick-change inserts or standardized mold bases) simplify maintenance and reduce repair complexity.