Molds, masters & patterns

Cost & setup

Upfront tooling investment

Model and mold preparation are paid before the finished parts. Cost per part can fall with repetition, but the break-even quantity depends on the geometry and production route.

Detail & surface

The master surface is carried into the mold and then the part. Tolerance, shrinkage, draft and parting lines must be planned together.

Strength & stiffness

Tools are designed for demolding, handling, pressure or vacuum and the agreed cycle count. This is different from the strength requirement of the final part.

Weight

Tool stiffness, dimensional stability and handling usually matter more than minimizing weight alone.

Use & exposure

Resin compatibility and actual cure temperature determine the tooling system. A room-temperature mold is not automatically suitable for heated curing.

One-off & repeated production

A key route for repeated parts. A temporary prototype tool and a production tool have different life and cost expectations.

Delivered finish

A sealed, prepared master and a specified mold surface. Polishing and visible split lines affect the final result.

How we make it

• Review the model, tolerances, quantity and production resin.
• Produce and finish the master; build or machine the agreed mold.
• Prepare release surfaces and check the tool and first-part requirements.

What can be made?

• Molds for fiberglass and carbon parts
• Silicone molds for suitable casting systems
• CNC or printed masters and plugs

What affects the price?

• Master development and geometry
• Number of mold sections
• Temperature and cycle requirements
• Surface finish and first-part checks

Limitations

• Tool life and dimensional tolerance need a project-specific agreement.
• A mold for carbon parts does not necessarily need to be made of carbon.