Here are Ten Factors You Must Consider

Material Specification

We need to consider the application requirements in terms of mechanical, thermal, environmental, electrical, chemical, cosmetic, cost and availability.

Wall Thickness

Designing the part with correct and consistent wall thicknesses will avoid many defects that can occur during the manufacturing process.

Draft Angles

Draft angles are required on the vertical faces of the plastic part to avoid ejection problems when releasing the part from the tool. Without draft the part may also sustain damage to these faces.

Feed/Gate Placement

This is critical to ensure the plastic flows properly into the mould tool. Type of gate and positioning has an important influence on the part quality and viability.

Venting

Proper mould venting is essential to produce quality parts. Trapped air needs to be released from the tool to prevent damage to the moulding faces.

Weld Lines/Sink Marks

Main causes of weld lines are incorrect gate positions and poor part design. Sink marks are caused by insufficient cooling time or differential wall sections.

Rib Design

A thin-walled part may need the inclusion of ribs to reinforce its strength. There is a standard formula to design the height, draft, and thickness of these

Boss Design

A boss is essentially a circular rib and the thickness should be no more than 60% of the thickness of the wall it sits on. It will also need draft and venting.

Corner Transitions

If possible, all corners should be radiused and not sharp. These should be added keeping a consistent wall section.

Tool Configuration

There are various options when considering tool design. The most important are product life, annual quantities, material (if abrasive) and cost.This may seem challenging but if you work closely with a knowledgeable manufacturing partner this process will go quickly and smoothly.

Be clear, be confident and don’t overthink it. The beauty of your story is that it’s going to continue to evolve and your site can evolve with it. Your goal should be to make it feel right for right now. Later will take care of itself. It always does.