After attending IMTS, it's clear that the integration of advanced technologies is ready to enhance precision, efficiency and automation in mold manufacturing processes. It’s a massive event, so here’s a glimpse of what the MMT team experienced firsthand.

Turning insertchart

With greater emphasis on fluid longevity and fluid recycling, it is important to remember that water-based metalworking fluids are “consumable” and have a finite life.

Identifying specific areas where CAM software can utilize machine capabilities to benefit the user and maximize milling machine potential.

To achieve the ultimate capability and level of productivity from your wire EDM on a consistent, repeatable and reliable basis, regular maintenance is a required task.

Millinginserttypes

Stainless steel is unique due to its high resistance to corrosion, which is primarily attributed to the presence of chromium. The addition of chromium forms a passive layer of chromium oxide on the surface, preventing rust and making the steel “stainless.” This property is why stainless steel is commonly used in environments where corrosion resistance is crucial, such as in kitchens, hospitals, and marine applications.

Insertclearance angle

While the transition from traditional methods to this innovative approach may present initial challenges, the benefits far outweigh the learning curve. Through the NextMold and partner network, Forward AM provides comprehensive support at every stage of the integration process. This ensures a smooth adoption of the technology into company’s operations, including seamless collaboration with molding companies. Forward AM’s commitment is to facilitate this technological transformation, enabling your business to leverage the full potential of 3D-printed mold inserts. Agenda:  Molding with 3D-printed inserts Ultrasim3D Next Mold: Forward AM offering Successful adaption: integration at Beaumont Technologies

Intralox's integration of the Alpha Laser ALFlak has significantly improved their tool room efficiency when it comes to difficult welds and urgent repairs.

Looking to master the art of ripping boards with a circular saw? Our detailed guide, “Guide to Ripping Boards Safely with a Circular Saw,” covers everything you need to know to perform this essential woodworking task with confidence and precision. From selecting the right blade to setting up your workspace and executing the perfect cut, our article provides step-by-step instructions and valuable safety tips to ensure you get the best results. Don’t miss out on these expert insights that can help you improve your woodworking skills and keep you safe on the job. Read the full guide now!

Sustainable, productivity-boosting innovations for moldmakers, including stress relief, traceability and cooling solutions.

Alba Enterprises created a mold base to match the needs and pacing of product iteration using mold tooling made via additive manufacturing.

Diamond compounds, with their varied grades, colors and base options, provide a comprehensive solution for mold builders in need of precise and superior polishing across diverse materials and applications.

Alba Enterprises created a mold base to match the needs and pacing of product iteration using mold tooling made via additive manufacturing.

When used for conformal cooling in plastic injection, 3D printing opens a wide range of design freedom. This design freedom enables designers to develop highly-efficient thermal regulation networks. However, this blessing also comes at the expense of not only higher manufacturing cost but also higher design cost as the designer could spend weeks to develop optimal cooling channels. This webinar will explore strategies and tools — including SimForm, a front-end thermal simulation app — to help tool designers and tooling managers maximize the benefits of 3D printing while minimizing manufacturing and design costs. Agenda: 3D printing applied to the plastic injection industry 3D printing pros and cons Tools and methods to facilitate the integration of 3D printing

Report analyzes moldmaking trends, pricing, labor shortages, capital costs, competitiveness strategies and construction spending challenges.

MoldMaking Technology addresses the complete lifecycle of the manufacture and maintenance of a mold—from design to first shot—by providing solutions and strategies to moldmaking professionals charged with designing, building and repairing molds. About Us

In ISO 9001 quality management systems, the Management Representative (MR) plays a crucial role. While the 2015 version of ISO 9001 no longer mandates this position, having a trusted management member serve as an MR remains vital for streamlining operations and maintaining quality standards.

Essential tools and resources to support mold builders in making critical strategic decisions about doing business in Mexico.

Each year Products Finishing partners with thousands of finishing operations in the U.S. to celebrate National Surface Finishing Day (NSFD) on the first Wednesday in March. NSFD is designed to celebrate and showcase the industry to trade schools, businesses, officials and media, as well as to celebrate employees and staff. The overarching goal of NSFD is to bring further awareness to the important roles plating and coating facilities play in their communities. Facilities are encouraged to host events and work with local media to build awareness about the contributions made by the surface finishing industry. For a helpful guide to reaching out to media outlets, download the NSFD toolkit here. How can you celebrate? Share your company’s story Hold an open house where the public can check out your facility –— either in person or virtual Offer student shop tours to local trade schools Invite local elected officials to visit and get to know your staff Celebrate your employees Share news about what you’re doing on social media and use the hashtag #NationalSurfaceFinishingDay or #NSFD

This webinar will provide an overview of new developments in hot runners, controllers, mold components, predesigned molds, process monitoring and mold maintenance equipment. These advancements are designed with the goals of lowering scrap rates, optimizing process temperatures and managing energy consumption. The solutions also aim to support productivity and may contribute to extending the operational lifespan of tooling equipment. Agenda: Innovative undercut and thread-forming components Predesign mold bases and plate control Melt delivery and control solutions Process monitoring and maintenance

Proper cooling is crucial in molding, yet often overlooked. Discover proper cooling methods to prevent defects and improve efficiency.

To cover the widest possible range of applications, Walter offers the MP6 geometry in CCMT, DCMT, TCMT and VBMT basic shapes. Its short protective chamfer, which is characteristic of roughing inserts, is said to ensures a high strength of cutting edge, even in challenging conditions; for example, when machining forged parts or components with interrupted cuts. The 18° positive rake angle ensures excellent chip control during medium machining.

Insert geometrychart

Join MoldMaking Technology Editorial Director Christina Fuges as she discovers the benefits of eLearning, including promoting sustainability in moldmaking by reducing travel, minimizing waste and enhancing global workforce accessibility.

A water-based, eco-friendly plastic mold cleaning system helps Rankine-Hinman Manufacturing restore flow rates and avoid big-ticket failures on complex and costly molds.

A discussion with AMT’s Bill Herman during ShopTalk on the big stage at IMTS 2024 highlights moldmaking's unique blend of craft and technology that is driving innovation while its community tackles key challenges.

Insertnose radius chart

Walter USA introduces the MP6 geometry for turning operations. With the MP6, Walter rounds off its range for medium machining of steel (ISO P). The geometry also has secondary applications in stainless steels, cast iron and super alloys (ISO M, K, S). The MP6 combines features for medium machining, such as a positive rake angle, with those of roughing inserts; for example, a strong cutting edge. According to Walter, this makes it the perfect link between the existing MP4 geometry for medium machining (with optimized chipbreaking on soft steels) and the RP4 for roughing operations (with tough cutting edge for high feeds). The straight cutting edge of MP6 also makes it an ideal geometry for internal boring operations.

These humble but essential fasteners used in injection molds are known by various names and used for a number of purposes.

Identifying specific areas where CAM software can utilize machine capabilities to benefit the user and maximize milling machine potential.

Sustainable, productivity-boosting innovations for moldmakers, including stress relief, traceability and cooling solutions.

What exactly does a hot runner do? If you’ve been in the injection molding industry for any length of time, you might think the answer is obvious, but it is not.

A discussion with AMT’s Bill Herman during ShopTalk on the big stage at IMTS 2024 highlights moldmaking's unique blend of craft and technology that is driving innovation while its community tackles key challenges.

PTXPO 2025 is a comprehensive showcase of cutting-edge technologies and innovations within the plastics molding industry. Join fellow molders, moldmakers, brand owners, OEMs and their full suite of suppliers in Rosemont, IL for three days of non-stop networking, education and business development opportunities.

The Society of Plastics Engineers’ Mold Technologies division is accepting applications for a $3,000 student scholarship honoring Joseph Prischak and a $5,000 educational grant program.

Discover how to enhance your mold design process with CAD/CAM software specifically tailored for the moldmaking industry. In part two of this webinar series, Cimatron will demonstrate how to intelligently design mold components, such as slides and lifters, using powerful CAD/CAM tools to accelerate the design process. Additionally, it will cover how to avoid errors and ensure design accuracy for ejector pins by checking clearance distances, calculating cutoff heights correctly, and thoroughly documenting all ejector components. Agenda: Slides Lifters Inserts Ejection pins and charts

Discover how to enhance your mold design process with the right CAD/CAM tool for parting and cavity design. This webinar will explore CAD/CAM capabilities including how hybrid solid/surface modeling can streamline workflow and improve accuracy. Learn how to confidently tackle parting, runoff, and shutoff, ensuring precision and efficiency in your designs. Agenda: Part analysis QuickSplit techniques Parting and runoff strategies Shutoff solutions

Turninginserts types

Smart sensors and sophisticated process and measurement data management are driving intelligent moldmaking to new heights.

The need for data to track information and the history of the mold-building process is ever-increasing, and mold component solutions can help.

After attending IMTS, it's clear that the integration of advanced technologies is ready to enhance precision, efficiency and automation in mold manufacturing processes. It’s a massive event, so here’s a glimpse of what the MMT team experienced firsthand.

Cutting stainless steel can be challenging due to its durability and resistance to corrosion. These properties make it an ideal choice for various applications, from kitchenware to industrial machinery. However, these same qualities can also make it difficult to cut without the right tools and techniques. Whether you’re a professional fabricator or a DIY enthusiast, understanding the best practices for cutting stainless steel will help you achieve clean, precise cuts and extend the life of your tools.

Curious about the diverse applications of stainless steels and tool steels? Head over to SawbladeUniversity on YouTube to watch our informative video, “Uses of Stainless Steels and Tool Steels.” This video dives into the unique properties and advantages of these metals, explaining why they are essential in various industries, from manufacturing and construction to medical and culinary fields. Learn how to choose the right type of steel for your projects and understand the best practices for utilizing these materials. Don’t miss this opportunity to expand your knowledge watch the video now!

CNMGInsert

The goal of National Composites Week is to celebrate and bring attention to the myriad ways that composite materials and composites manufacturing contributes to the products and structures that shape the American manufacturing landscape today. Learn how you can participate in this year's National Composites Week on NationalCompositesWeek.com.

To prevent vibration, such as when machining thin-walled components, Walter has given the MP6 geometry an open chipbreaker groove. This reduces the cutting pressure even when cutting at a higher depth of cut. This also makes the MP6 ideal for an unstable workholding setup and components with long overhangs, such as during internal turning. The new Tiger-tec Gold grades also have a positive impact on tool life. The WPP10G, WPP20G and WPP30G grades are adapted to different operating conditions, thereby improving tool life and performance across a broad range. Walter specifies feeds from 0.004-0.014". and depths of cut from 0.016-0.157" as the range for the machining parameters.

In this most recent product roundup, MMT continues to offer a variety of innovative as well as tried-and-true technologies to benefit moldmakers.

Carbideinsertidentification chart PDF

Join this webinar where Hexagon will explore how state-of-the-art CAD/CAM technology can drive your business forward. Learn how to optimize tool paths, enhance design accuracy and reduce lead times with advanced simulation. Discover the power of automation and real-time data for continuous improvement. Tailored for mold and die manufacturers, this session offers actionable insights to boost productivity and quality. Don’t miss this opportunity to gain a competitive edge in progressive die manufacturing. Agenda:  Key challenges in progressive die manufacturing Optimizing tool paths Enhancing mold and die design accuracy Reducing lead times with simulation Automating processes for greater efficiency Leveraging real-time data for continuous improvement

When cutting stainless steel, the right tool can make a significant difference in the quality of the cut and the efficiency of the process. Here are some recommended tools:

Cutting stainless steel requires the right tools, techniques, and precautions. By understanding the properties of stainless steel and using the best practices outlined in this guide, you can achieve precise cuts and maintain your tools’ longevity. Whether you’re working on a small DIY project or a large industrial job, following these guidelines will help you handle stainless steel confidently and efficiently.

In ISO 9001 quality management systems, the Management Representative (MR) plays a crucial role. While the 2015 version of ISO 9001 no longer mandates this position, having a trusted management member serve as an MR remains vital for streamlining operations and maintaining quality standards.

A combination of lasers, probes and software help moldmakers automate in-process cutting tool and workpiece measurement.

Join MoldMaking Technology Editorial Director Christina Fuges as she discovers the benefits of eLearning, including promoting sustainability in moldmaking by reducing travel, minimizing waste and enhancing global workforce accessibility.

Choosing the right blade for cutting stainless steel is crucial for efficiency and safety. Using blades not designed for stainless steel can lead to premature wear, overheating, and even blade failure, potentially causing injury. Always select a blade specifically engineered for stainless steel to ensure clean cuts and maximize the blade’s lifespan.

ReelView Fishing faced an electronics obstacle in the development of its new technology for underwater video. Additive manufacturing for moldmaking enabled the speed necessary to iterate to a solution.