Tool Steel
MMT's May Digital Edition Is Now Available
This month we look at how simulation of both the induction heating and injection molding processes can optimize cycle time and final part results; how normal vectors are not always the best choice for milling complex mold surfaces; how hard-coating provides benefits that make aluminum tooling an attractive alternative to steel, how tool center point management streamlines five-axis programming and setup, and much more.
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Expanding Aluminum’s Potential
Hard-coating provides a number of benefits that make aluminum tooling an attractive alternative to steel.
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"Think in Plastic, Not Steel" Presentation Challenges Moldmakers
This “townhall” presentation, based on MoldMaking Technology’s monthly Pellet-2-Part (P2P) article series, challenged attendees to consider modernizing their current approach to mold manufacturing by gaining a greater understanding of the plastic injection molding process.
Read MoreToroidal Tools for Tight Areas
Toroidal end mill in hardened steel mold machining of helical bores in 54 HRc H13 steel.
Watch
VIDEO: Space-Saving Lifter Design
This lifter is designed to reduce the size of the overall tool as well as the overall ejection stroke while maintaining stability.
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Specialized Apprenticeship Training
We hear plenty about the lack of skilled workers within our mold building facilities, but we can't ignore the fact that that same problem plagues our technology suppliers. Here is one steel producer's take on this challenge.
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Reconsidering Aluminum
One mold maker sheds light on the advantages of this material from a machining and handling standpoint. Another argues that it can indeed be a viable alternative to tool steel beyond just prototyping and short-run applications.
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Let’s Be Clear About Aluminum
Within the injection molding industry, a negative perception of aluminum for anything but prototype plastic parts persists, despite aluminum tooling being able to produce and run almost any resin that steel can, as well as produce millions of shots with unfilled resin with uniform results.
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Busting Another Myth of Conformal Cooling
Several years ago, I traveled around the midwest giving talks on the merits of aluminum molds. Aluminum has much to offer over steel, yet I’m willing to bet that there have been few aluminum conformal molds made. I just came across an investigative study and it confirms what I have said about aluminum molds in the past.
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Moldmakers Deserve a Total Production Solution
Stability, spindle speed and software are essential consideration for your moldmaking machine tool.
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