What is a Mould?

A mould is an essential tool in the manufacturing industry, used to shape materials like plastic, metal, or rubber into desired forms. Moulds play a critical role in producing products of various shapes and sizes, ranging from simple industrial parts to complex everyday items. By utilizing a mould, raw materials can be efficiently transformed into finished products with precision and consistency.

What is a Mould Made of?

Moulds are typically made from durable and high-strength materials to withstand high temperatures, pressure, and prolonged use. Common mould materials include:

1. Mould Steel

• The most widely used material, known for its hardness, wear resistance, and corrosion resistance. It is suitable for producing both plastic and metal components.

• Common types include P20 steel, H13 steel, and 718 steel.

2. Aluminum Alloy

• Ideal for lightweight moulds, offering excellent thermal conductivity and machinability. However, it has lower wear resistance, making it suitable for short production cycles and small-batch manufacturing.

3. Copper Alloy

• Known for exceptional thermal conductivity, copper alloys help reduce cooling times in injection moulds, enhancing production efficiency.

4. Other Alloy Materials

• For specific requirements like high-temperature resistance or chemical stability, specialized materials like nickel-based alloys are also used.

Types of Moulds and Their Applications

Moulds can be categorized based on the forming process, including injection moulds, blow moulds, extrusion moulds, and die-casting moulds. They are widely applied in various industries, such as automotive parts, packaging containers, home appliances, medical supplies, toys, and more.