Custom Die-Casting Mold Manufacturing

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ISO 13485: 2016 Medical Device

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In-Process Inspection with CMM

Die-Casting Mold Overview

A die casting mold is a specialized tool designed to shape molten metal into precise components through the die casting process. The mold consists of two main sections—the fixed half (attached to the stationary platen of the die casting machine) and the ejector half (attached to the moving platen). When closed, these halves form a cavity that defines the shape of the final part.

Die casting molds are engineered to withstand extreme conditions, including high temperatures, pressures, and repeated use cycles. They must maintain dimensional stability while facilitating proper metal flow, cooling, and part ejection. The quality and precision of the mold directly impact the characteristics of the final product, making mold design and manufacturing critical factors in die casting success.

Primary Advantages

✔️ High-volume production capability; ✔️ Excellent dimensional accuracy and repeatability; ✔️ Ability to create complex geometries and thin walls;
✔️ Superior surface finish requiring minimal post-processing; ✔️ Cost-effective for medium to large production runs

Die Casting Mold Structure

The structure of a die casting mold is designed to withstand high pressures and temperatures while producing precise parts. Understanding the core components and their functions is essential for proper mold design and maintenance.

Fixed Half (Stationary Die)

The fixed half remains stationary during operation and contains:

✔️ Sprue or shot sleeve entrance where molten metal enters
✔️ Part of the cavity that forms the casting
✔️ Locating rings that align with the die casting machine
✔️ Runner system that guides metal flow

Ejector Half (Moving Die)

The ejector half moves during the casting process and includes:

✔️ Ejector pins and plate system
✔️ Remainder of the cavity that forms the casting
✔️ Guide pins and bushings for alignment
✔️ Core pulls and slides for forming internal features

Parting Line

The parting line is where the fixed and ejector halves meet. Its design is critical for:

✔️ Preventing flash (excess metal at the seam)
✔️Facilitating proper mold closing
✔️Enabling efficient part ejection

Core Components

  • Cavity Inserts: Replaceable inserts that form the external shape of the casting
  • Core Inserts: Removable components that form internal features
  • Sliders and Lifters: Mechanical components that create undercuts and side features
  • Ejector System: Pins, sleeves, and plates that push the solidified casting out of the mold
  • Guide Pillars and Bushings: Ensure precise alignment between mold halves

Each component must be precisely engineered and manufactured to ensure proper function and longevity of the die casting mold. The integration of these elements determines the mold's performance, maintenance requirements, and the quality of the final castings produced.

Die-Casting Mold Components We Process

Our die-casting mold parts are typically manufactured using methods like CNC machining, EDM (Electrical Discharge Machining), and precision grinding for high accuracy and durability.

Functional Systems

  • Cooling Channels: Internal passages for temperature control fluid
  • Venting System: Pathways that allow air and gases to escape
  • Runner System: Channels that direct molten metal to the cavity
  • Overflow Wells: Reservoirs that collect excess metal and trapped gases
  • Locking Mechanisms: Components that secure slides and cores in position
Movable Mold
Fixed mold base plate
Screws and Springs
Cores and Pins
Wedge Block
Fixed Mold
Moving mold plate
Bolts and Nuts
Sliders and Inserts
Limit Block
Inclined Guide Column

Die Casting Mold Types We Manufacture

Explore the various types of die-casting molds designed to meet specific manufacturing needs.

By Mold Structure

Single-Cavity Molds

Produces one part per cycle. Ideal for large components or low-volume production. Offers simplified maintenance and troubleshooting.

Multi-Cavity Molds

Produces multiple identical parts per cycle. Increases production efficiency for high-volume manufacturing. Requires balanced runner systems.

Unit Dies

Modular design with interchangeable inserts. Allows flexibility in production and easier maintenance. Cost-effective for related part families.

By Casting Process

Types of Die Casting Molds By Casting Process

Hot Chamber Die Casting Molds

Used with low-melting-point alloys like zinc and some magnesium alloys. The injection system is immersed in the molten metal, allowing for faster cycle times. 

  • Integrated gooseneck and plunger systems
  • Specialized thermal management
  • Optimized for high-speed production

Cold Chamber Die Casting Molds

Used with higher-melting-point alloys like aluminum. Molten metal is ladled into the shot sleeve for each cycle. 

 

  • Robust shot sleeve interface
  • Enhanced cooling systems
  • Higher wear resistance componen

By Casting Material

MaterialMold CharacteristicsApplications
Aluminum AlloyH13 tool steel with thermal fatigue resistanceAutomotive components, housings, structural parts
Zinc AlloyP20 or H13 steel with good wear resistanceHardware, electronics, decorative items
Magnesium AlloyH13 with special surface treatmentsAerospace, lightweight automotive parts

Mold Materials For Die Casting

The selection of appropriate mold materials is critical for die casting success. Different materials offer varying combinations of heat resistance, wear resistance, thermal conductivity, and machinability. The right choice depends on factors including the casting alloy, production volume, part complexity, and budget considerations.

H13 Tool Steel

H13 is a chromium-molybdenum hot work tool steel known for its excellent toughness, thermal fatigue resistance, and high red hardness. It performs exceptionally well under continuous heating and cooling cycles, making it ideal for high-pressure die casting. H13 offers excellent machinability and polishability, with strong resistance to cracking and distortion.
 
Recommended for: high-volume production of aluminum and zinc die cast parts, complex mold geometries, and inserts where thermal shock is a concern.

NAK80 Tool Steel

NAK80 is a pre-hardened, high-performance plastic mold steel that’s also widely used in low- to medium-pressure die casting. It offers excellent mirror polishability and EDM machinability, with great dimensional stability and corrosion resistance. Its uniform hardness and fine microstructure make it a top choice for precision molds.
 
Recommended for: small to medium-volume production, high-precision aluminum or magnesium parts, and molds requiring excellent surface finish and minimal distortion.

8407 Tool Steel

8407 is an advanced ESR (Electro-Slag Remelted) grade hot work steel developed by Uddeholm (similar to H13 but with better isotropy and toughness). It offers outstanding thermal shock resistance, excellent toughness, and extended tool life under repeated heating/cooling cycles.
 
Recommended for: high-volume production, multi-cavity die casting molds, and applications requiring consistent part quality over long production runs.

SKD61 Tool Steel

SKD61 is the Japanese equivalent of H13, providing balanced hardness, high-temperature strength, and wear resistance. It is easy to machine, polish, and heat treat, making it a versatile and economical choice for general-purpose die casting tools.
 
Recommended for: general die casting molds for aluminum and zinc alloys, moderate production volumes, and situations requiring cost-effective performance with good durability.

8418 Tool Steel

8418 is a premium-grade hot work tool steel with superior resistance to heat checking, wear, and premature failure. Its optimized alloy composition supports excellent toughness and polishability, even under demanding die casting conditions. It is often used in high-end die casting tools that demand consistent thermal performance and extended tool life.
 
Recommended for: high-precision, high-volume aluminum die casting; complex geometries with deep cavities; and molds requiring excellent surface finish.

Aluminum

Aluminum is increasingly used in die casting mold bases, prototype inserts, and short-run tooling. While it cannot withstand the same thermal and pressure loads as tool steel, it offers superior thermal conductivity and lightweight performance. Its fast machining speeds reduce lead time and cost for trial molds or low-pressure casting.
 
Recommended for: prototyping, small-batch production, short-run dies, or mold bases that prioritize weight reduction and heat transfer.

★ Material selection must balance initial cost against long-term performance. While premium materials may have higher upfront costs, they often deliver better part quality, longer mold life, and reduced maintenance requirements—resulting in lower total cost of ownership for high-volume production.

Fecision's Mold Production Capabilities

Our advanced manufacturing facility is equipped with the latest technology and staffed by experienced toolmakers to deliver exceptional die casting molds.
We maintain strict quality control standards throughout the production process, ensuring that every mold meets or exceeds industry specifications.

Equipment & Technology

Machining Centers

  • 5-axis CNC machining centers
  • High-speed machining capabilities
  • Precision grinding equipment
  • Automated tool changing systems

Specialized Equipment

  • Wire and sinker EDM machines
  • Heat treatment furnaces
  • Surface finishing systems
  • Laser welding technology

Quality Control

  • CMM inspection systems
  • Optical measurement technology
  • Material testing equipment
  • 3D scanning capabilities

Technical Specifications

Dimensional Capabilities

Maximum mold size: 1000 x 800 x 600 mm
Minimum feature size: 0.2 mm
Tolerance capability: ±0.01 mm
Surface finish: Ra 0.2 μm

Production Capacity

Multiple concurrent projects
Fast-track options available
24/7 production capability
Typical lead time: 4-8 weeks

Manufacturing Process Of Die Casting Mold

The manufacturing of a die casting mold is a complex, multi-stage process requiring precision engineering and skilled craftsmanship.
Each step builds upon the previous one to create a tool that can withstand the extreme conditions of die casting while producing consistent, high-quality parts.

1

Design & Engineering

The process begins with comprehensive 3D design and engineering. Our team analyzes part geometry, material requirements, and production parameters to create an optimized mold design. This phase includes flow simulation, thermal analysis, and structural validation to identify and address potential issues before manufacturing begins.

2

Material Selection & Preparation

Based on the application requirements, appropriate tool steel or other materials are selected. The raw material is then cut to size, stress-relieved, and prepared for machining. Quality certification and material testing ensure that only premium materials enter the production process.

3

Rough Machining

CNC machining centers perform initial rough cutting operations to remove excess material and establish the basic form of the mold components. This stage focuses on efficient material removal while leaving appropriate machining allowances for subsequent operations.

4

Heat Treatment

Mold components undergo precise heat treatment processes to achieve the required hardness, toughness, and dimensional stability. This critical step establishes the mechanical properties that will determine the mold's performance and longevity in production.

5

Precision Machining

After heat treatment, components receive precision machining to establish critical dimensions, features, and fitting surfaces. High-speed CNC machining centers with advanced tooling create the complex geometries required for the mold cavity, cores, and functional components.

6

EDM Processing

Electrical Discharge Machining (EDM) creates precise features that cannot be achieved through conventional machining. This includes deep ribs, sharp corners, and intricate details that define the final part geometry.

7

Surface Finishing

Cavity surfaces receive specialized finishing treatments to achieve the required surface quality. This may include precision grinding, polishing, texturing, or coating applications depending on the part requirements.

8

Assembly & Fitting

Individual components are carefully assembled and fitted to ensure proper alignment, function, and clearances. Slides, ejectors, cooling channels, and other systems are integrated and tested for smooth operation.

9

Quality Inspection

Comprehensive dimensional inspection using CMM and other advanced measurement technologies verifies that all specifications are met. Every critical feature is checked against design requirements to ensure accuracy.

Testing & Validation

The completed die-casting molds will undergo testing and validation, including trial runs to verify performance under actual production conditions. Any necessary adjustments are made before final approval and delivery.

Factors to Consider for Making Perfect Die Casting Tooling

Creating the perfect die casting mold requires careful consideration of numerous factors that affect performance, part quality, and production efficiency.
Our engineering team evaluates these critical elements during the design phase to ensure optimal results for your specific application.

Design Accuracy

  • Consistent positioning: Eliminates human error in component placement
  • Tight tolerances: Maintains critical assembly dimensions
  • Reduced defects: Minimizes rework and scrap rates
  • Quality documentation: Traceable assembly processes
  • Statistical process control: Data collection for quality monitoring

Thermal Management

  • Cooling Channel Design: Optimized for uniform temperature control
  • Heat Balance: Even heat distribution throughout the mold
  • Thermal Expansion: Accounting for dimensional changes during operation
  • Cycle Time Optimization: Balanced cooling for maximum efficiency

Operational Considerations

  • Venting System: Proper gas evacuation prevents defects
  • Ejection Mechanism: Reliable part removal without damage
  • Runner & Gate Design: Optimized metal flow and pressure distribution
  • Maintenance Access: Easy access for cleaning and repairs

★ Beyond these technical factors, we also consider practical aspects such as production volume requirements, budget constraints, and long-term maintenance needs. Our goal is to deliver a mold solution that balances performance, longevity, and cost-effectiveness for your specific application.

Why Fecision for Die-Casting Mold Tooling?

Technical Expertise

Our engineering team averages 15+ years of experience in die casting mold design and manufacturing

Advanced Technology

State-of-the-art equipment and software for precision manufacturing

Quality Assurance

Rigorous inspection and testing protocols ensure mold performance

Comprehensive Service

From design consultation to ongoing maintenance support

Competitive Pricing

Excellent value without compromising on quality

On-time Delivery

Reliable project management and production scheduling

Mold Construction Workflow

Production mold making is a highly intricate process that demands the skill and expertise of seasoned technicians and engineers.
The typical workflow for creating a production mold involves the following key steps:

Feasibility Assessment

The initial step involves assessing the manufacturablity of the mold. If it's deemed feasible, we proceed with production immediately. If not, we will provide a detailed DFM (Design for Manufacturability) report to the customer.

Design & Flow Analysis

Utilize advanced predictive modeling software to analyze the mold’s performance, ensuring it meets all required specifications. If any issues are identified, we make the necessary adjustments and improvements to guarantee optimal functionality.

Mold Manufacturing & Sampling

The next step is to manufacture the mold using the specified material requested by the customer. Samples are created from the mold to verify that the final product meets the customer's specifications, or to determine if any further adjustments are necessary.

Shipping

Once our engineers confirm the product meets all requirements, it is shipped to the customer. We maintain ongoing communication to ensure the customer is fully satisfied with the product they receive.

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Die-Casting Mold FAQs

Factors to consider include the type of metal being cast, the desired surface finish of the final product, the production volume and cycle time, and the expected tool life.
The mold material can affect the surface finish, dimensional accuracy, and mechanical properties of the final product. Different materials have different thermal properties, which can affect the cooling rate and shrinkage of the metal during the casting process.
Three main types of die casting molds: single-cavity dies, multi-cavity dies, and combination molds. Single-cavity dies produce only one part per cycle and are commonly used for simple designs. Multi-cavity dies can produce multiple identical parts in a single cycle, increasing production efficiency. Combination molds produce multiple different parts in one cycle, ensuring balanced inventories of parts typically used together.
It includes machining (milling, turning, drilling, etc.) to shape the mold, heat treatment to improve material properties, EDM (Electrical Discharge Machining) for creating complex shapes and cavities, and surface treatment such as nitriding or PVD (Physical Vapor Deposition) to enhance wear and corrosion resistance.

The lifespan of a die-casting mold depends on factors like the material being cast, the mold design, the number of parts produced, and maintenance practices. A well-maintained mold can last from several hundred thousand to a few million shots, although molds used for high-volume production typically require regular repairs and refurbishing to maintain quality.

At Fecision, we understand the importance of safeguarding your design IP, particularly when dealing with high-value projects. That’s why our platform is built with top-tier security and confidentiality at its core. From login to file upload to part delivery, you can trust that your intellectual property is protected within our secure Digital Manufacturing Ecosystem.

Other Types of Mold

Injection Mold

Thermoforming Mold

Stamping Die

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