Injection Molding & Mold Making
Everything your molder needs to deliver an accurate quote. Prepare your details in advance and move faster.
Section 01
Essential Information Required
3D CAD Files
- STEP files preferred
- Solid model format
- Complete geometry
Material Specifications
- Resin type (ABS, PP, PC, etc.)
- Specific grade if known
- Additives and colorants
Dimensions & Tolerances
- Overall part dimensions
- Critical tolerances
- 2D drawings with GD&T
Production Volume
- Estimated Annual Usage
- Initial Order Quantity
- Projected Lifetime Volume
Application Details
- End-use application
- Performance requirements
- Environmental conditions
Cosmetic Requirements
- Surface finish specifications
- Gate location preferences
- Aesthetic requirements
Section 02
Mold-Only vs Full Service
| # | Requirement | Mold Building Only | Mold Building & Injection Molding |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Cavity count | ✦ Required | |
| 2 | Plastic resin | ✦ Required | Resin + weight (unless 3D model provided) |
| 3 | Mold steel & hardness | ✦ Required | |
| 4 | Molding quantity | ✦ Required | ✦ Required |
| 5 | Surface & gate requirements | Mold finish + gate location | Color, finish, gate & more |
| 6 | Hot runner drops | ✦ Required | |
| 7 | Critical sizes & assembly | ✦ Required | ✦ Required |
| 8 | Packaging | ✦ Required | |
| 9 | Secondary operations | Paint, print, assembly, etc. |
Section 03
Accepted File Formats
Most Preferred
Reliable solid geometry
Also Acceptable
Native CAD & Parasolid
Reference Only
2D drawings for reference only
Runner System Options
Section 04
Machine Specifications Needed
Clamping Force
- Tonnage requirements
- Mold holding power
Shot Size
- Injection volume capacity
- Part and runner system volume
Mold Space
- Tie bar distance
- Mold height limits
- Maximum daylight opening
Section 05
Additional Services
DFM Analysis
Design optimization for manufacturability and cost reduction before tooling begins.
Part Design
Complete 3D CAD model creation from concepts, sketches, or physical samples.
3D Printing
SLA, SLS, and FDM prototyping for rapid design validation before committing to tooling.
CNC Prototypes
Production-intent material prototypes for robust functional and fit testing.
Soft Tooling
Aluminum or P20 steel molds for low-volume production and bridge tooling.
Vacuum Casting
Silicone mold casting for small pre-production runs with good surface quality.
Section 06
Project Timeline
From initial design to mass production — typical project stages and durations.
- 01Design of Components ~7 DaysOptimize design for cost savings and manufacturability.
- 02Parts Prototyping 2–3 DaysCNC machined prototypes or 3D printing for design validation.
- 03Tool Design 3–7 DaysTooling Information Worksheet used to design the mold tool accurately.
- 04Tool Design Check 2–3 DaysValidation of tool design accuracy before fabrication begins.
- 05Tool Fabrication 3–8 WeeksPrecise fabrication using CNC and EDM machining.
- 06First Shots to Client (T1) 2–5 DaysFirst test shots sent via courier after molds are completed.
- 07Tool Modifications & Texturing 3–7 DaysChanges for compliance and texturing — final step before mass production.
- 08Mass Production / Tool Export ReadyReady for full-scale production runs or tool export.
Approximate total for typical projects
Including modifications and approval cycles
From design to mass production
Section 07
Quote Timelines
How long to expect a quote depending on part complexity and information provided.
- 01Simple Parts — Complete Information 24–72 hrsWhen all required details are provided upfront, including 3D files, material, quantity, and tolerances.
- 02Complex Parts — Analysis Required 3–10 DaysFor parts with undercuts, complex geometry, tight tolerances, or multi-cavity requirements.
Section 08
Tips to Simplify the Mold Buying Process
Detailed RFQs Get Accurate Quotes
Submit an RFQ that leaves no room for guessing. Include mold type, cavity count, steel preference, expected mold life, and warranty expectations.
Be Transparent in Your Request
Be clear about the reason for quoting. Don’t ask for a full engineering analysis for a project years down the road.
Respect Intellectual Property
Be discreet when requesting quotes. Do not share ideas from competing mold makers.
Partner with Your Moldmaker Early
Discuss costs and timelines before you’re locked into a design. Effective early collaboration avoids costly revisions.
Keep Communication Ongoing
Ask for regular updates. Many mold makers use Gantt charts or project portals to keep clients informed.
Agree on Payment Terms
Plan for down payments and milestone-based payments, with final payment on approved samples and mold shipment.
Minimize Design Changes
Part design changes after tooling begins delay lead times and increase cost significantly.
Define Completion Criteria
A mold is complete when it produces parts meeting print specifications. All changes after approval require ECOs.
Beware of Unrealistic Deals
If an offer seems too good to be true, it usually is. Mold quality directly affects part quality for millions of cycles.
