What is a Mold? Popular Types of Molds

A mold is a metal tool (or device) used to shape products through the forming method. Each mold is typically designed and utilized for a certain number of casting/injection cycles, which can range from a single use to multiple uses. The structure and size of the mold depend on the dimensions, shape, quality, and quantity of the desired products.

Molding is based on pre-existing templates, and the mold manufacturing process involves producing molds for products according to customer requirements. From the predefined shapes and dimensions, the molds create products identical to the sample while ensuring their functionality and usability, without compromising the product’s efficiency.

The Mold Manufacturing Process

Similar to general mechanical products, the mold manufacturing process is based on five main technological steps: design, machining, heat treatment, inspection, and assembly. Companies may undertake one or more of these steps, or even the entire process, to produce the final product.

In a complete closed-loop cycle—from receiving orders, analyzing requirements, machining, delivering products, to providing repair and replacement services for mold components—Vietnamese mold companies are involved in every stage.

Some large companies have the capability to operate in a fully integrated process, from design to inspection and assembly. These companies can even directly use the molds they produce to manufacture and commercialize the final products.

Molds are categorized as single-unit production products. This characteristic minimizes the impact of economies of scale on mold production, which is an advantage for Vietnam in maintaining competitiveness against other countries, especially China.

The mold market in Vietnam, as well as globally, is growing rapidly and has significant potential. Vietnam’s technological level in the mold industry is not too low and has the capacity to develop further to reach the global average standard.

This positions Vietnam as a promising player in the global mold manufacturing industry, capable of leveraging its strengths to compete effectively and meet the growing demand in both domestic and international markets.

Common Types of Molds

Compression molds are widely used in industries to produce components made from various materials, including plastic, metal, rubber, glass, and other inorganic substances. Molded products span a diverse range, such as metal and plastic parts for automobiles, aircraft, household appliances, electrical and electronic devices, consumer goods, furniture, military equipment, and medical products.

For plastic manufacturing, there are numerous types of molds, including:

1. Injection Molds
2. Compression Molds
3. Blow Molds
4. Reinforced Molds
5. Transfer Molds
6. Casting Molds
7. Extrusion Molds
8. Rotational Molds

Among these, injection molds are the most commonly used due to their versatility, precision, and efficiency in mass production.

Stamping Molds and Their Applications

Stamping molds are used to manufacture a wide variety of metal products through processes such as stamping, extrusion, forging, and drawing. Stamped products are highly versatile and find applications in numerous industries, including automotive, aerospace, furniture, construction equipment, agricultural machinery, household appliances, electronics, and many other areas.

The above information about plastic injection molds has been compiled and shared by ATT. We hope this article provides valuable insights into the structure, applications, and manufacturing processes of plastic injection molds.

ATT Vietnam is also a leading supplier of high-quality plastic injection products at competitive prices. For detailed information about the plastic injection molding process or to receive further consultation, please feel free to contact us:

Address: Lot 32 Bai Say, Zone Cau Do 5, Ha Cau Ward, Ha Dong District, Ha Noi, Vietnam.

Factory: Lot CN6, Thach That – Quoc Oai Industrial Zone, Thach That District, Hanoi, Vietnam.

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