Mold production
What is a mold?
A mold is a special tool for making wax patterns. Molds are made of rubber, silicone, metal, plastic, and other materials. Rubber and silicone molds are made based on a master pattern. Metal, plastic, wooden, and other molds are made using a machine. Mold production is a complex and multi-stage process that includes a number of phases and requires experience and skill.
The main stages of mold production for wax
- Mold designing. The first step is to develop a mold design, including making a master pattern and determining all the necessary parameters.
- Material selection. The choice of material for making the mold plays an important role, as it must take into account the specifics of the master pattern’s shape, and be durable and resistant to loads and pressure.
- Production of the mold. This stage usually involves molding the master pattern into raw rubber or special silicone compounds. After that, rubber molds are baked, while silicone molds are left to harden.
- Cutting. This process requires high skill and experience, as the quality of the final product (wax pattern) depends on it. During the cutting process, the master also forms the sprues for the wax.
- Testing. After the mold is finished, it is checked for compliance with the specifications, trial parts are made, and, if necessary, the mold itself is cut more.
How does the mold work?
The mold has a cavity that matches the shape and size of the desired product. A molten modeling compound, usually wax, is poured into this cavity under pressure. The modeling compound completely fills the mold cavity and exactly replicates it. When cooled, the wax hardens. After that, the finished wax model is removed from the mold.
