Tooling
Precision Tooling for Injection Molding
Proper tooling is essential to producing consistent, repeatable injection molded parts. IMS works with customers to develop tooling based on part design, material, production volume, and project requirements, helping create molds built for reliable performance throughout production.
IMS Injection Molding Tooling Services
IMS offers both domestic and international tooling options to meet a range of project and production requirements. Our tooling capabilities include mold design, fixtures and jigs, tool repairs, preventative maintenance, and inspections. Our tooling department also utilizes lathes, milling machines, and precision cutting equipment to support the development and maintenance of injection molds.
Before tooling begins, IMS can provide 3D-printed prototypes to help customers evaluate the design, fit, and function of their part. This allows potential modifications to be identified and addressed before moving forward with tooling and production.
Expertise Before Tooling Begins
Experienced guidance early in the tooling process can help identify potential design and manufacturing challenges before the mold is completed. IMS works with customers and tooling partners to evaluate part designs, address necessary adjustments, and prepare projects for successful production. Identifying changes early can help avoid costly tooling modifications later and ensure important design considerations are addressed before the mold moves into production.
Designed with Production in Mind
Successful tooling requires careful consideration of the part design, material, and production requirements. Factors such as temperature, material flow, cooling, and shrinkage can all affect the molding process and the performance of the finished part.
IMS evaluates these factors early in the tooling process to help identify potential issues, reduce the risk of defects such as warping or excessive shrinkage, and prepare the mold for consistent production.
Tooling Options for Your Project
The right tooling approach depends on your part design, production volume, material requirements, and project goals. Options such as aluminum molds, MUD inserts, printed inserts, and family molds may provide different advantages depending on the application.
IMS works with customers to evaluate available tooling options and determine an approach that balances performance, production requirements, and cost.
Flexible Throughout the Manufacturing Process
Every project comes with different requirements, and IMS works closely with customers throughout the manufacturing process to adapt as those needs evolve. Our experienced team can help evaluate designs, recommend adjustments, and identify opportunities to improve manufacturability, efficiency, and the finished part.
From initial design decisions to final production, IMS takes a collaborative approach to help keep projects moving forward and ensure each part is developed around the customer’s specific requirements.
CAD Design & Prototyping
Computer-aided design (CAD) provides detailed digital models and specifications that help prepare a part for manufacturing. CAD allows designs to be developed and evaluated in 3D, helping define dimensions, features, and other important details before tooling begins.
CAD models can also be used to create 3D-printed prototypes and support the development of injection mold tooling. This helps improve design accuracy, identify potential adjustments, and ensure important specifications are established before moving into production.
