Abstract:Using Additive Manufacturing (AM) to produce inserts for injection molding of parts used for rapid quote can drastically reduce costs and time frame. Prototype injection molding currently can take weeks and thousands of dollars to develop and manufacture, making AM as a very viable option. Functional prototypes of mold inserts were developed and analyzed with CAD software, then printed on a 3D printer, and tested using industrial plastic injection molding equipment. Calculations for cooling and mold compression were used to develop guidelines for future parts. Measurements were taken on the molded parts in order to validate calculations and dimensions. This methodology is beneficial to industry because a company can rapidly and efficiently produce functional parts for quoting for prospective clients. |
