A general description of the part features required to select a mold will be discussed in this lesson. Also, specific product examples will be identified for each mold type.
A-Series Part Descriptions
Products made with A-series molds use conventional (cold) runners and tend to be simple in design, requiring large gates (although submarine gates are often used). The core and cavity “set” are often inserted into the mold base.
Typical products:
- Computer housings
- Eyeglass lenses
- Toothbrushes
- Combs
- Plastics cutlery
B-Series Part Descriptions
Products made with B-series molds use conventional (cold) runners and tend to be very simple in design, requiring large gates. The core and cavity are often machined directly into the A and B plates of the mold.
Typical products:
- Key chain medallions
- Test samples (coupons)
- Kitchen appliance products
- Lawn mower products
T-Series Part Descriptions
Three plate molds have two parting lines that automatically degate and allow separation of the runner and the part. Also, gating can be placed anywhere on the A surface and can be centrally located. Parts are of moderate complexity.
Typical products:
- Spray paint covers
- Lipstick caps
- Disposable (Crystal polystyrene) cups
- Golf tees
- Magic marker caps
- Lipstick tubes
- Medical syringes
Shuttle Mold Base Part Description
Shuttle molds are similar in design and function to B-series molds, except the two B halves of the mold “shuttle” back and forth. While one half of the mold is being filled, the other half is ejecting and being inserted. Inserts consist of “non-host” plastic material or items that are introduced into the mold prior to injection.
Typical products:
- Electrical wire connectors
- Handles on metallic utensils
- Distributor caps
Unit Dies Mold Base Part Description
Unit dies produce products similar to those described for A and B series molds. Unit dies are best used for short-run production or when fast turn-around times are required. Cores and cavities can either be machined directly into the plates or inserted.
Typical products:
- Test samples (bars)
- Simple novelty items
- Prototype products
Stack Molds Part Description
Stack molds have multiple parting lines. Each parting line in this mold type produces product (and often a runner). Typically, products manufactured in stack molds are consumer oriented (high volume), thinner walled, and of simple geometry. These product types do not require tight tolerances.
Typical products:
- Food packaging bowls
- Plastic dinnerware
- Cosmetic cases and covers
- Thin wall drinking cups
X-Series Part Descriptions
Products made in X-series molds (a/k/a Stripper Plate Molds) use conventional (cold) runners and tend to be simple, thin-walled designs, requiring large gates. The core and cavity “set” are often inserted into the mold base and the stripper plate forms the “bottom” of the part. The stripper plate is located on the B side of the mold in X-series molds.
Typical products:
- Simple packaging covers
- Sockets for light bulbs
- Bottle caps
AX-Series Part Descriptions
Products made in AX-series molds use conventional (cold) runners and tend to be simple, thin-walled designs, requiring large gates. The core and cavity “set” are often inserted into the mold base and the stripper plate forms the “top” of the part. The stripper plate is located on the A side of the mold in AX-series molds.
Typical product:
- Electrical bobbins
Summary
In this lesson we learned how to match the appropriate mold type to the part features to be produced. Additionally, we reviewed specific product examples best suited for each mold type.
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