The cost of making a mold can vary depending on factors such as the size and complexity of the mold required. On average, a single cavity custom silicone injection mold can cost anywhere from $500 to $5000. However, a two cavity mold, one with complex geometry or a mold for a large product can cost as much as $20000.
It is important to note that making the mold easier, with a longer lifespan and lower cost, can be achieved. Shorter curing times can reduce the additional cost of flash pads between the piston and the pot, and stock preparation costs can be reduced by stocking many cavities. Additionally, the mold can be filled with a piece of paper to further reduce costs.
The process of making a mold involves curing the mold, separating it, and venting the cavities. Injection molding involves forcing the rubber stock into a closed mold cavity using a nozzle. The mold is then closed and maintained at a fixed temperature for a certain period of time. Under pressure and heat, the stock flows and fills the cavity, with excess volume flowing out through special grooves, resulting in mold flash. After the curing time, the press is opened and the product is removed.
Compression molding is similar to transfer molding, where the stock is forced into the mold cavity. However, in transfer molding, the stock is transferred through holes in the mold cavity. Accurately cutting or weighing enough stock for each cavity is crucial in compression molding to avoid defects such as flow lines, blisters, or unfilled parts. Using too little or excessive amounts of rubber can cause issues as well. Transfer molding requires fixing cycles and more labor to load and unload the mold.
Another method of mold making is cold dry bag isostatic pressing. In this process, the mold is placed into a pressure chamber and filled with a room-temperature liquid. The press then applies pressure from all sides, condensing the metal powder. As a result, the powder particles mechanically bond to each other, creating a solid green body. The liquid is then removed, and the container expands to its original form, allowing the product to be retrieved.
There are two types of presses used for cold dry bag isostatic pressing: monostatic isostatic presses with single-cavity structures and densomatic isostatic presses with multi-cavity designs.
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