3D-CAM also produces injection molded parts using steel, aluminum or other metal CNC-machined or cast tools.

CNC (Computerized Numerically Controlled) machining centers employ multiple-tool mills which are used to machine both plastic and metal prototypes as well as aluminum or steel molds for plastic injection-molded parts. The total turnaround time is 3 to 6 weeks.

EDM (Electric Discharge Machine) stations employ a high voltage electric scalpel for creating small, difficult shapes in metal tools.

MUD (Master Unit Die) Insert Tooling: MUD Frame is a system that utilizes die frames that accept aluminum die inserts. The use of inserts provides many advantages including reduced tooling costs and quicker turn-around times.

Metal Tool Highlights

Metal Tools are the ideal choice for:

• Injection Mold Tooling – especially high production tooling requirements where many thousands of parts must be delivered from the mold tool.
• Investment Casting Wax Tools using aluminum tooling – for short or full production runs of aluminum or steel cast parts.
• MUD Insert Tooling – for injection molded parts requiring quick turn-around time and reduced mold costs.

Material choices include:

• Steel
• Aluminum
• Zinc

Dimensional tolerances:

• CNC / EDM = +/- 0.001” or less

Quantities: (Typical Numbers are):

• Steel Tools: 500,000 parts
• Aluminum Tools: 100,000 parts

Finishing types:

• Custom surface and texturing finishes available