Rapid Tooling Flashcards
(12 cards)
What is rapid tooling
The use of additive manufacturing processes to quickly produce tools like molds and cores for casting and injection molding
What are the main application areas of rapid tooling
Casting technology for molds and cores and plastic injection molding for mold inserts
How are sand molds and cores made using rapid tooling
With 3D printing a bonding agent is sprayed onto each sand layer to create molds and cores used in casting
How are metal mold inserts made for plastic injection molding
By using selective laser melting SLM to produce detailed metal inserts with internal cooling channels
Why are internal cooling channels beneficial in rapid tooling
They improve cooling efficiency reduce cycle times and enhance component quality by lowering thermal distortion
What are key benefits of rapid tooling
Fast production of tools
Short tool development times
Use of original plastic grades
Low-cost toolmaking alternative
Ideal for small and medium production runs
What is the difference between indirect and direct rapid tooling
Indirect: A master pattern is 3D printed then used to make molds Direct: Molds and cores are printed directly from materials like sand
How is rapid tooling used in early engine and transmission design
It produces visual and functional aluminum models early on to test under real loads
What role does stereolithography play in rapid tooling
Used to create high-temperature-resistant plastic inserts for injection molding of early test models
Why are conventional molds expensive and hard to modify
They are made from wear-resistant steels and require high investment making later changes difficult
Why use aluminum molds in rapid tooling
They are cost effective for up to 30000 units and suitable for reinforced plastics using SLS or SLM
How does rapid tooling impact development and production
It shortens development time and time to market by enabling quick tool production and adjustments
