Shenzhen Alu Rapid Prototype Precision Co., Ltd.

Principle: Create molds quickly using cost-effective materials to minimize lead time and expense compared to production tooling.

Details:

Use soft materials like aluminum, soft steel, silicone, epoxy resin, or 3D-printed polymers instead of hardened steel.

Employ rapid prototyping techniques, such as 3D printing (e.g., SLA, FDM) or CNC machining, to produce molds or patterns in hours to days.

Design molds for low-volume runs (10–100 parts), prioritizing simplicity and ease of modification.

Why It Matters: Reduces tooling costs (e.g., $500–$5,000 vs. $20,000–$100,000 for production molds) and enables fast iterations.

Example: A 3D-printed resin mold for vacuum casting or an aluminum mold for prototype injection molding.