Mold Classification Terms
Molds are essential components of many manufacturing processes, and come in a variety of different shapes, sizes, and types. Different mold classification terms are used in the industry to help categorize and – most importantly – identify molds. This article provides an overview of the classification terms commonly used by mold makers and manufacturers.
1. Injection Mold: An injection mold is used to form plastic parts or components by injecting molten plastic into a cavity using pressure. They are used for a wide variety of products, from toys and electronic components to automobile parts and medical devices.
2. Blow Mold: A blow mold is used when blow molding, which is a process used to form hollow components from plastic resin or powders. It is performed by injecting a molten plastic into a mold cavity, and then expanding it to take on the shape of the cavity by applying pressure with a plunger.
3. Compression Mold: Compression molds are used to form thermoplastics, thermosets and elastomers by applying pressure against the mold surface during the curing process. They are typically used for complex parts with tight tolerances, as they provide excellent surface finish and repeatability.
4. Transfer Mold: Transfer molds are typically used for high production runs of small, intricate parts. The process involves pushing a piston through the mold cavity, pushing the plastic into the mold cavity while simultaneously cooling the molten plastic.
5. Rotational Mold: Rotational molds are used when shaping components from a single material, such as plastic or metal. The process involves rotating the mold on multiple axes at different speeds to shape the material.
6. Extrusion Mold: An extrusion mold is used to create continuous linear shapes from a heated blank of material which is squeezed through a specialized die and molded into the desired shape. This process is commonly used for items such as window frames and pipe fittings.
7. Casting Mold: Casting molds are used when casting metals and plastics. The process involves pouring a liquid material into a two-part mold and then allowing the material to cool and set.
8. Forging Mold: Forging molds are used when forging a part. The process involves hammering a heated metal blank into a two-part mold to form the desired shape.
9. Vacuum Mold: A vacuum mold is a two-part mold that is used when vacuum forming. This is a process which involves heating a plastic material and then stretching it over an open two-part mold under a vacuum.
10. Pressure Die-casting Mold: Pressure die-casting is the process of injecting molten metal into a mold cavity under high pressure. The mold forms the part and is used for complex parts in large production runs.
These are the most common mold classification terms used in the industry. Each term describes the process by which the mold is produced and identifies the parts it is used to create. Knowing the classification terms helps you understand the differences between types of molds and can aid in selecting the right mold for your application.
