Is it really worth using 3D printing in plastic injection mold making?

by Arnaud Divialle

Have you heard the hype about 3D printing? Skeptical about the benefits?

If you’ve been waiting to see proof of the usefulness of 3D printing in plastic injection mold making, you’re not alone.

Nonetheless, investment in the technology is increasing rapidly. In 2020, 3D printing in the molds and tooling sector was evaluated at more than $5 billion. The investment is on track to grow to $20 billion by 2030.

Many molders and mold makers want to take advantage of 3D printing, but find it challenging to identify how best to use the technology to reap all the benefits.

What is the right way to adopt 3D printing in mold making?

Companies that want to reap all the benefits of 3D printing need to consider new approaches towards:​

  • Part Design​: 3D printing has its own set of design constraints
  • Material selection​: If you want to print your mold, several traditional mold steels are not available in 3D printing
  • Part Performance: If you were to print the plastic part, 3D printed parts have a different look and feel and come with new mechanical properties that need to be accounted for Manufacturing​: 3D printing needs a new manufacturing sequence where many steps of the traditional machining approach are no longer required
  • Supply chain: outsourced manufacturing has brought entirely new suppliers into the market What’s more, these aspects are still evolving.

Let us show you how to bring 3D printing into your plastic injection operations, in the way that is best for your business.

In this on-demand webinar, we take a detailed look at these new approaches, so you can decide how best to leverage 3D printing technology in your business, and why building a strong business case is critical to success.

Watch the 3D printing business case webinar on demand today.

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