Introduction
Injection molds are critical tools in the production of various industrial products. With the rapid growth of the plastics industry and the increasing application of plastic components in sectors such as aerospace, electronics, machinery, shipbuilding, and automotive, the demand for high-quality molds has surged. Traditional mold design methods are no longer sufficient to meet modern requirements. Compared to conventional approaches, Computer-Aided Engineering (CAE) technology offers significant advantages in enhancing productivity, ensuring product quality, reducing costs, and minimizing labor intensity.
CNC Machining in Injection Mold Processing
In the manufacturing of injection molds, various CNC machining techniques are employed, with CNC milling and machining centers being the most widely used. CNC wire-cutting and electrical discharge machining (EDM) are also prevalent. Wire-cutting is commonly applied in processing molds with straight walls, such as stamping dies, inserts, and sliders for injection molds, as well as electrodes used in EDM. For high-hardness mold components that are challenging to machine conventionally, EDM is often the preferred method, particularly for sharp corners, deep cavities, and narrow slots in mold cavities. Additionally, CNC lathes are utilized for producing standard mold components like rods or rotational mold cavities and cores, such as those found in bottle or basin injection molds and forging dies for shaft or disc parts. The use of CNC drilling machines further enhances machining precision and shortens production cycles.
Importance of Injection Molds in Modern Manufacturing
Molds are indispensable in modern manufacturing, as nearly all product component forming processes rely on them. The mold industry is a vital part of a nation’s high-tech industrial framework and represents a valuable technical resource. To remain competitive, manufacturers must focus on optimizing mold system design and integrating CAD/CAE/CAM technologies to achieve intelligent mold production. Key objectives include improving forming processes, enhancing mold standardization, increasing manufacturing precision and quality, and reducing surface grinding and polishing efforts to shorten production cycles.
Future Trends in Injection Mold Manufacturing
To meet the demands of market diversification and rapid product prototyping, the adoption of advanced materials and manufacturing techniques is essential. Research and application of high-performance, easy-to-cut materials tailored for specific mold types can significantly improve mold durability and performance. Additionally, technologies such as rapid prototyping and rapid tooling are expected to shape the future of mold production over the next 5 to 20 years. These advancements enable the swift creation of forming dies, plastic injection molds, and die-casting molds, aligning with the industry’s need for flexibility and efficiency.