Soft Tooling Selection and Amortization for Micro Runs
Soft tooling selection balances rapid lead times against progressive cavity wear, requiring direct NRE payment and scrap inflation modeling for micro runs.
Silicone Mold
Meaning
Elastomeric shaping device used for the reproduction of parts in low volume casting processes provides a flexible cavity for liquid resins. Operators create a silicone mold by pouring liquid silicone rubber over a master pattern and allowing it to vulcanize. The flexibility of the material allows it to be stretched around complex shapes and undercuts during part removal.
This type of tool reaches its end of life when the material loses its elasticity or the surface becomes pitted from chemical exposure.
Geometric Versatility
Complex internal structures can be produced without the need for sliding cores or complex mechanical actions. Because a silicone mold can be deformed without permanent damage, it allows for the removal of parts that would be trapped in a rigid steel tool. Designers use this freedom to create organic shapes for medical models and industrial prototypes.
This versatility reduces the need for assembly by allowing more features to be integrated into a single part.
Elastic Recovery
Ability of the mold material to return to its original shape after being stretched ensures the dimensional accuracy of subsequent parts. High quality silicone mold materials are formulated to resist permanent set over dozens of cycles. Proper storage and handling are necessary to maintain this property over several weeks of production.
If the mold is stretched beyond its limit, the resulting parts will show signs of distortion.
Chemical Safety
Regulations regarding the handling of raw silicone components focus on the prevention of environmental contamination. Manufacturing facilities must follow the GB 28401 standard for the safety of auxiliary materials used in the production of consumer goods. Uncured silicone must be disposed of as hazardous waste according to local municipal guidelines.
Ensuring a clean workspace prevents the contamination of the cast parts and protects the health of the staff.