What To Do After Mold Manufacturing: Essential Post-Production Steps

1. Mold Inspection & Testing

Before putting the mold into production, thorough inspection and testing are necessary.

Key Checks:

• Dimensional Verification – Use CMM (Coordinate Measuring Machine), micrometers, or optical comparators to confirm accuracy.

• Surface Quality Check – Inspect for scratches, burrs, or excessive roughness in the cavity and core.

• Trial Run (Test Molding) – Conduct initial test shots on an injection molding, die-casting, or stamping machine to verify functionality.

Common Defects to Look For:

• Flash (excess material)

• Sink marks

• Short shots (incomplete filling)

• Ejection marks

2. Mold Adjustment & Optimization

Based on the trial results, fine-tuning may be required:

• Process Parameter Adjustment – Modify injection speed, pressure, cooling time, etc.

• Mold Modification – Polish surfaces, adjust gate sizes, or modify ejection systems if issues persist.

• Multiple Test Runs – Repeat trials until the part meets quality standards.

3. Documentation & Standardization

Proper documentation ensures consistency and traceability:

• Mold Records – Keep design drawings, machining reports, and trial data.

• Process Sheets – Define standard operating procedures (SOPs) for mold setup and production parameters.

4. Mold Maintenance & Preservation

To extend mold life and prevent downtime:

Daily Maintenance:

• Clean the mold cavity after use.

• Apply rust-preventive oil.

• Check lubrication of guide pins, ejector pins, and sliders.

Periodic Maintenance:

• Replace worn components (springs, seals, bushings).

• Repair minor damages (scratches, dents).

5. Small-Batch Production Validation

Before full-scale production, run a small batch to:

• Verify mold stability.

• Confirm part consistency.

• Identify potential issues in a real production environment.

6. Mass Production & Monitoring

Once approved, the mold enters mass production:

• Proper Installation – Ensure correct alignment and clamping.

• Process Control – Monitor part quality with regular inspections.

• Issue Response – If defects appear (e.g., flash, sticking), stop production and troubleshoot.

7. Continuous Improvement

• Collect production feedback for future mold design enhancements.

• Track mold lifespan and schedule refurbishment when needed.

Key Takeaways

• Inspection & testing prevent costly errors.

• Proper maintenance extends mold life.

• Documentation ensures repeatable quality.

• Continuous optimization improves efficiency.