Tooling for metal injection molding (MIM)

Abstract: Starting with a general description of the design and function of injection molding machines, a basic understanding of the elements of the tool set and tool design is conveyed. Particular attention is given to the various options for the design and position of gates and their effect on mold filling. Molding parts with undercuts or threads requires special tool elements such as lifters, collapsible cores, and threaded cores. Hot runner molds increase the output and avoid recycling of sprues and runners. Computer software is available for mold fill studies and cost calculation.