The Hard Questions You Have to Ask When you are Hunting for a Quote on a Finished Mold

Posted On May 27, 2019

A mold is one of the most significant expenses on the production costs of any product. They have to be paid up front, and even with technology backing you up, you need to keep a heavy eye when you deal with your manufacturer of choice. The professional you choose to work with should be able to offer a full break down of the costs depending on what they have to work with, such as designs or specs for engineering. The less you know about your idea, the more expensive it will be to create it.

To help you with this process, these are the hard questions you have to ask before engaging with a manufacturing company.

• Will you need CAD drawings, prints, and samples of the product?

Every mold manufacturer needs something to work with to offer a quote; after all, they need every scrap of information to get a better hold of your idea. Most of these manufacturers can create very detailed 3D drawings based on the information you offer on your project. If you have a rough idea of how to work with these programs, you can try your shot at them, but having them create from scratch will work for the best, even if it will cost more money.

• Do you know the full range of applications for your part?

The mold manufacturer needs to understand the applications for the part you are creating. This information will help them improve the design and take notice on features such as sturdiness, resistance, and the lasting repercussions of wear and tear over time.  All the data you offer about your project is essential for the mold maker to offer his expertise regarding the use of resins or additives for the success of your project.

• How many units will you need?

Every mold manufacturer knows that all injection molds are not created alike.  If your goals are to create a small production run of your product, the manufacturer will recommend using lighter metals or the mold. If you plan to make your mark on your niche market, you probably are planning to stay in the game for a long time and restock as much as you need of your product. You will be asked to choose stronger metals to keep going for a while.

• What size is your part, and how complex it is?

Plastic parts are created using injection molding procedures, but there are other means to develop products given the complexity of its design. Smaller pieces with complex shapes are handled best using regular injection molding procedures, but larger parts can be created using compression molding. Ask your manufacturer about this. He will know the best way to go with this