Shenzhen Alu Rapid Prototype Precision Co., Ltd.

The cost of a die cast mold (also called a die or tooling in high-pressure die casting) varies significantly depending on several key factors:

1.Part complexity — Simple designs with no undercuts or slides are cheaper; intricate features, thin walls, multiple cavities, or tight tolerances drive up costs.

2.Mold size and number of cavities — Larger molds or multi-cavity designs (for higher production rates) increase expenses.

3.Material cast — Aluminum and magnesium often require more robust (and expensive) molds than zinc due to higher temperatures and pressures.

4.Expected production volume/lifespan — Molds built for high-volume runs (100,000+ shots) use premium steels and cost more upfront but last longer.

5.Manufacturer location and quality — Costs are often lower in China compared to the US or Europe, but quality and lead times vary.

Typical Cost Ranges (as of 2025-2026 data)

1.Simple, small molds (e.g., basic single-cavity for small zinc or aluminum parts) — $3,000 to $15,000.

2.Medium complexity molds (e.g., with some slides or moderate size) — $15,000 to $50,000–$80,000.

3.Complex or large/multi-cavity molds (e.g., automotive parts) — $80,000 to $150,000+, with some high-end tools reaching $500,000 for very large or precision applications.

These are upfront tooling costs—the mold is a one-time investment (owned by you or amortized over production). Per-part costs then drop significantly with higher volumes, often making die casting economical for 1,000+ units.

For an accurate quote, provide part drawings to manufacturers, as costs can fluctuate with raw material prices (e.g., tool steel) and design specifics. Simplifying your part design or opting for prototypes via CNC machining first can help reduce overall expenses for low-volume needs.