Design Tip: Look Sharp

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By Protomold - Nobody’s Faster In The Short Run.®

For several years Protomold has been expanding their range of prototypes and production parts they can make by increasing their mold bases and press sizes. At the same time they've been aware of the demand for thinner features and Protomold has begun to incorporate additional technology in their mold making process to allow your parts to be taller and narrower.

For example, Protomod now offers:

Thinner ribs with less draft
Smaller, more complex features atop tall walls
V-ribs for ultrasonic welding

In the past, taller ribs have required more draft than shorter ones, but with the new technology, this is no longer always the case. On small parts, they now have the ability to consider less draft on deep ribs and sharp corners on outside edges.

These new capabilities do not apply to all parts. Initially, they will be limited to relatively small parts, approximately 3" by 3", and 1" above or below the parting line of the mold. Within a few months, they will expand the footprint of parts to which the new technology can be applied. As with many of their capabilities, the applicability will vary based on a number of factors. The best way to know whether they apply to your parts is to submit your design to ProtoQuote®, which will evaluate your model against their most current capabilities.

Once you have received your ProtoQuote, you can discuss your project with their Customer Service Engineers by calling them at (763) 479-3680. Their CSE's can help you understand how your part is going to be affected by their process and if there are alternatives within the Protomolds process to manufacture your part.

Bottom line: if you want thinner less drafted features on relatively small parts, give them a try. As always, you can upload 3D CAD models to ProtoQuote at www.protomold.com/PartUpload.aspx.

Speaking of "bottom line", this technology does add some cost to the mold. They do add a mold advisory to your ProtoQuote under their "Other Info" column. You can still design to the "old" Protomold rules for draft, and avoid the added expense. Give their CSE's a call at (763) 479-3680, and they can help you out!