Mold TexturingTrevor ThorwartAndrew MeierJosh Hoover

Introduction• Mold Texturing

– Flexibility– Pleasing Look– Aesthetic feel

Types of Mold Texturing

• Mechanical– Computer Numerical Control (CNC)– Abrasive Blasting

• Electrical– Electrical Discharge Machining (EDM)

• Chemical Engraving

CNC Engraved

• Areas of use– Logos and Patterns

CNC Engraved• Basic Milling Operation• Work-piece clamped

down• Tool path computer

generated • Drill follows and cuts

path

Abrasive Blasting Method

• Abrasive particles etch tool– Commonly sand– High Velocity

• Matte, decorative, and textured finish

Abrasive Blasting

• Advantages– Cheap– Quick

• Disadvantages– Good for matte surface textures– Inconsistent surface finish

Abrasive Blasting

Electrical Discharge Machining (EDM)

• Created using electrodes– Shaped tool or wire graphite

• Plasma Etched in CNC pattern

EDM Procedure

• Placed in dielectric fluid• Discharge created• Plasma erodes surface

– Follows CNC path• Dielectric fluid washes

debris away

EDM

• Advantages– Complex and simple surfaces– Dimensional Accuracy (+/- .0005 in)– High Range of Materials

• Soft and Hard Mold Steels– Can be fully automated

EDM

• Disadvantages– Low production volume

• Slow cutting– EDM scale

• Must be post-polished– Blind holes

• Difficult Debris Removal

EDM

Chemical Engraving

• Patterning Process using a acid bath

Chemical Engraving Procedure

• Stencil• Mold Masked• Acid Bath• Tooling Dissolves

Chemically Textured Surface

Details Masked

Chemical Engraving• Advantages

– Dimensional– Cost– Tooling

• Disadvantages– Surface Types– Secondary cleaning

operation– Masking

Mold Texturing Areas of Use

• Injection Molding• Blow Molding• Compression Molding• Thermoforming• Rotational Molding

Other Issues

• Guidelines– Mold Preparation

• Costs– Surface– Tooling– Mold material

• Mold Repair

Conclusion