Editorial, News, and Products
Moldmaking, the Relentless Pursuit of Innovation … Oh Yeah!
Innovation was at the root of the presentation lineup for the 2023 MoldMaking Conference, which included a heavy focus on automation, collaboration and communication, as well as mold design, talent development, reshoring and sustainability.
Up Close and Personal With Precision Molds and Molding
MoldMaking Technology's Christina Fuges and Tony Deligio with Plastics Technology were onsite together at the Dynamic Group in Ramsey, Minnesota, to see how its moldmaking and molding capabilities come together to grow the business as part of an AMBA Facility Tour.
Last Chance to Get Your Seat at MoldMaking Conference 2023!
Next week the moldmaking community comes together in Minneapolis for two full days of learning. It’s not too late to register to reserve your seat!
MoldMaking Conference Right Around the Corner!
This year features a dynamic lineup of experts focused on technical innovations, business strategies and workplace development initiatives for mold manufacturers. See the full agenda and register today!
5 Ways to Make Your Tooling Assets Smarter
Global mold monitoring and asset management solutions can maximize productivity and efficiency.
Let Go! Leverage Your Mindset, Elevate Yourself as a Leader, Drive Organizational Purpose
AMBA Conference 2023 motivates me (and moldmakers) to let go of traditional mindsets to move (the industry) forward.
MoldMaking Conference Session Spotlight: Tooling Success
Want to learn about best practices in program management or the mold builder's role in new product development or a remote validation process?
MoldMaking Conference Session Spotlight: Software
Want to learn how to leverage CAD/CAM to streamline your moldmaking process or how to engineer cooling efficiency?
MoldMaking Conference Session Spotlight: Data
Want to learn about digital workflows in mold design or ERP or global mold monitoring and asset management or the impact of tooling digitalization?
MoldMaking Conference 2023: Education, Collaboration, Innovation, Discussion - Early Bird Discount Ends July 31st!
The moldmaking community will gather on August 29-30 in Minneapolis, Minnesota for a two-day technical program co-located with the Molding Conference. Here is a sneak peek at the sessions.
MoldMaking Conference Session Spotlight: Workforce Development & People Operating Systems
Want to learn what a people operating system is and what's really holding manufacturing back?
MoldMaking Conference Session Spotlight: Mold Design
Want to learn about collaborative mold design or a plan to reduce back-end troubleshooting?
MoldMaking Conference Session Spotlight: 3D Printing
Want to learn about hybrid tooling inserts or the current state of 3D metal printing?
Tolerancing in Mold Design, Overcoming Cutting Tool Vibration, SPE MTD Updates & More Most-Viewed May Content
Every month, MMT draws inspiration from its diverse readership's wide-ranging interests, from mold design tolerancing to cutting tools and beyond. Here are May’s top 10 most-viewed articles, based on Google Analytics.
MoldMaking Conference Session Spotlight: Automation
Want to learn how to use automation to solve the "productivity puzzle" or how to choose between “lights out” or “unmanned” automation or how to implement a three-phased automation approach?
Tech Roundup: Making Sure Your Moldmaking Needs Are Met
This month’s roundup features products, processes and services involved with additive manufacturing, maintenance and repair, mold components and more. To learn more about the products, read on.
MoldMaking Conference Session Spotlight: HOT TOPICS
Want to learn how to successfully reshore tooling or how to play a part in sustainability or how to take advantage of the changes to the R&D Tax Credit?
MoldMaking Conference Session Spotlight: Presenters Return to Give Progress Report
Want to learn about a strategy to create a highly effective and scalable moldmaking business or the impact of mold digitalization?
New Alignment Options Machined From Parting Line
Progressive’s expanded Z-Series Alignment Lock options provide precision alignment of mold halves to protect shut-offs and to ensure parting line match.
Mold Ejector Accelerators Achieve Second-Stage Ejection
Progressive Components says its Ejector Accelerators can be used when additional pin travel is required to release molded parts from lifters, stripper plates or deep core features, without the need for a second set of ejector plates.
Slide Components Can Run Greaseless, Provide New Side Actions
Progressive Components says the Z-Series proprietary treatment guarantees long-term operation and durability, while there are also new side-action options for greaseless applications.
AMBA Announces 2023 Mold Award Recipients
Justin McPhee from Mold Craft and TK Mold and Engineering were awarded the 2023 Mold Builder and Tooling Trailblazer of the Year awards, respectively, at this year’s AMBA Conference in Detroit, Michigan.
VIDEO: Maintaining a Customer-Centric Culture
Progressive Components President Glenn Starkey talks about the importance of the customer and culture when developing technology solutions for the moldmaking industry.
MMT Chats: SPE MTD 2023 Mold Designer of the Year
MoldMaking Technology Editorial Director Christina Fuges sits down with the newly named SPE Mold Technologies Division 2023 Mold Designer of the Year to learn about his passion for mold design. This episode is brought to you by ISCAR with New Ideas for Machining Intelligently.
SPE Mold Technologies Division Presents Moldmaking Award Winners
At PTXPO, the 2023 Mold Designer of the Year, Mold Maker of the Year and Mold Repair Technician of the Year were awarded to Chuck Heitmeyer, Pat Roussey II and John Demakis Sr., respectively.
2023 SPE MTD Mold Maker, Designer and Repair Technician of the Year Announced!
Mark your calendars for the official announcement of these awards at PTXPO on Wednesday, March 29th at 2:30 PM at the Mold Technologies Division Booth 1614.
PTXPO 2023 Preview: Advancing the Mold With Featured Mold Component, Hot Runner Technology
There’s no doubt mold components and hot runners are important parts of the moldmaking industry. This preview gives mold buyers, mold builders and injection molders a look into PTXPO exhibitors displaying these technologies at the show.
Bar Locks for Optimal Mold, Sequencing Tools Alignment
Progressive Component’s off-the-shelf Z-Series patented technology is available in a wide variety of sizes, configurations and plate thicknesses.
Nominations Open for 2023 Mold Maker, Designer and Repair of Person of the Year Awards
SPE Mold Technologies Division is seeking potential nominees for its three annual awards, which will be presented at this year’s PTXPO event. Nomination deadline is Feb. 28.
Next-Level Mold Manufacturing Highlighted at MoldMaking Conference: Data, Communication, Collaboration
Owners, engineers, operations managers, toolroom managers, apprentices and more left the MoldMaking Conference with a list of real-world tips, fresh ideas and new connections to bring back to their teams.
Most-Viewed Content of 2022
The most popular MoldMaking Technology content according to analytics reports over the past 12 months.
Cloud-Based Asset Management System Attains Next-Level Mold Monitoring
Progressive Components’ ProFile v4 acts as a simplified tracking system to organize, maintain and track global molds and equipment to for complete real-time monitoring.
Are You a Next-Level Mold Manufacturer?
Introducing the MoldMaking Conference for the next-level mold manufacturer because moldmaking has moved beyond art and craft to science with technology advancements aimed at engineering and building a better, more cost-effective mold.
The MoldMaking Conference: General Sessions on Tooling Digitization and Design Apprenticeships
Here we spotlight the General Sessions of the MoldMaking Conference on November 8 & 9 in Charlotte, North Carolina.
The MoldMaking Conference — All About Next-Level Mold Management
Here we spotlight the Manage block of sessions of the MoldMaking Conference on November 8 & 9 in Charlotte, North Carolina.
Component Innovations, Real-Time Tooling Tracking
OEMs, molders and mold builders can benefit from Progressive Component’s mold monitoring innovations and new component additions at K 2022.
The MoldMaking Conference: All About Next-Level Mold Maintenance
Here we spotlight the Maintenance block of sessions of the MoldMaking Conference – for the next-level mold manufacturer – November 8 & 9 in Charlotte, North Carolina.
Tooling for Tomorrow Hits $500,000
What does this organization actually do and how can you be a part of it to help tool up the moldmaking industry?
The MoldMaking Conference: All About Next-Level Mold Building
Here we spotlight the Build block of sessions of the MoldMaking Conference on November 8 & 9 in Charlotte, North Carolina.
Check Out MoldMaking Technology's Most-Viewed August Content
Here is a list of the most-viewed August content based on analytics – from high-speed machining, 3D printing and simulation to a moldmaking scholarship prize, standardization and circle segment milling. Take a look at what you may have missed.
MoldMaking Conference: All About Next-Level Mold Manufacturing
Next-level mold manufacturing is dependent upon accurate, repeatable and efficient technologies, processes and talent when it comes to designing, building, maintaining, repairing and managing molds. It is with this focus in mind that we are launching The MoldMaking Conference on November 8-9 in Charlotte, NC.
VIDEO: Standardization and the Future of Moldmaking
Progressive Components President Glenn Starkey discusses their focus on standardization and the future of moldmaking (it’s here to stay!).
If You're Reading This Then, You Already Know ...
… that a mold matters. You know that a mold is the heart of the injection molding process. You know that a mold is not just a piece of steel; it’s a machine. That is why we launched MMT and now the MoldMaking Conference!
VIDEO: Simplify Mold Management of Your Tooling Fleet
In this digital demo, Progressive Components explains its basic asset management and mold monitoring system, ProFile, where it is possible to monitor all your assets in one place.
Time for Tooling to Get in the Game: Submit to Hot Shots Today
MoldMaking Technology joins Plastics Technology in calling all molders and mold builders to enter the injection-molded parts competition to be held at their co-located events in November 2022.
Have You Heard of iWarriors?
iWarriors has been honoring severely injured soldiers since 2011. Check out all the fun and fraternity at the 2021 annual iWarriors Golf Outing and mark your calendars for the 2022 event.
Configurable CAD Ordering System Reduces Redundant Mold Design Tasks
The release of Progressive Components’ CADalog v14 is geared towards simplifying custom component creation and ordering Mold-Ready components.
“Molds Make a Difference” at the Plastics Technology Expo
That was the sentiment of every person who came up to the MoldMaking Technology booth during last week’s Plastics Technology Expo to grab their giveaway “Molds Make” t-shirt after working the aisles seeking technology and process solutions and making new business connections.
SPE MTD Names Its Mold Maker, Designer of the Year
The Mold Technologies Division of the Society of Plastics Engineers (SPE MTD) presents both awards each year, honoring individuals who has made a worthwhile contribution to the SPE or the industry.
SPE Mold Technologies Division Seeks Nominations for Mold Maker, Mold Designer of the Year Award 2022
For consideration, nominees should demonstrate strong technical expertise, a reputation for conducting fair, honest business and have made contributions to SPE and/or industry. Deadline to submit is Feb. 15, 2022.
Amerimold 2021 Post-Show Flashback: Build
MMT looks back on the return of an in-person Amerimold in September after a year-long pandemic.
Plate Retainer Offers Compact, Simple-to-Install Plate Sequencing Control
Introduction of Progressive’s Plate Retainer helps to eliminate stuck parts and mold damage as a result of plate drift when the mold machine vibrates.
VIDEO: Two Impassioned Speeches Made for One Incredible Leadtime Leader Awards Ceremony at Amerimold 2021
The Leadtime Leader Award handoff is an honored part of Amerimold and this year was no different (albeit a bit more humor;-). Congratulations once more to our 2021 Leadtime Leader Award winner Westminster Tool.
Angle Pin Holder Simplifies Installation and Removal from Parting Line
Progressive Component’s angle pin holder is designed to avoid angled machining, eliminates the need for long angle pins or bored holes and does not require the mold to be removed from the press.
Back Together Again at Amerimold 2021: Quality Conversations and Connections
The mold manufacturing community came together last week after a long two years apart, and it felt great! This slideshow is a very quick glimpse of everything from the show floor and technical presentations to the awards ceremony and networking party.
Snapshot of Why Westminster Tool is MMT's 2021 Leadtime Leader Winner
Here is a quick look at some of the reasons this small advanced manufacturer took the title this year.
Seeking Your Help! Moldmaking Customs and Practices Guide
The mold manufacturing industry is continually improving by joining forces on a variety of issues, challenges, technologies and trends. This time it’s updating the industry’s guidelines and practices to standardize and streamline the mold procurement process, and you can help.
2021 Leadtime Leader Award Winner: Westminster Tool—Perseverance with a Plan
Westminster Tool’s latest commitment to the plan—investment in new technologies, processes and capabilities, workforce development/training and sales & marketing—helped them edge out this year’s competition.
Advancing the Mold with Amerimold 2021 Education Sessions
With an expanded three day schedule, more free educational sessions are being offered than ever before, including a range of sessions from Amerimold exhibitors.
Up Close and Personal Education and Engagement at Amerimold 2021
The Amerimold show floor features exhibits and educational programming over three days focused on new and proven technologies, processes and strategies that are advancing mold manufacturing.
Westminster Tool President Earns the 2021 AMBA Mold Builder of the Year Award
Westminster Tool President, Ray Coombs, is the recipient of the AMBA Mold Builder of the Year award, which recognizes an individual who makes major strides for the moldmaking industry.
AMBA Announces 2021 Mold Builder and Tooling Trailblazer of the Year Award Recipients
Westminster Tool and Wepco Plastics were presented with the Mold Builder of the Year Award and Tooling Trailblazer of the Year Award respectively, at the AMBA 2021 conference June 21-24.
Amerimold 2021 Education Sessions Are Here!
Gain expert insight and advice from 24 unique sessions that touch on all things related to the design, manufacture, maintenance and management of molds.
Booming Mold Manufacturing, Plastics Purchases Pave Way For Successful Amerimold, Extrusion and Molding Shows
Illinois’ transition into Phase 5 of its ‘Restore Illinois’ plan, which lifts all restrictions on gathering size, and favorable market news promises an unforgettable in-person plastics conference Sept. 21-23.
Surging North American Plastics Market Bodes Well for Amerimold 2021
If you’re still not sure why the Amerimold Expo is THE event to be at this September, maybe these recent market reports and COVID-19 restriction updates will help guide your decision.
Networking at Amerimold 2021: Receptions, Happy Hour and Leadtime Leader Awards
Networking and making lasting connections doesn’t just happen on the show floor. That’s why Amerimold is bringing exhibitors and attendees three informal events for drinks, food and additional networking opportunities.
Progressive Components Delivers C-Series UniLifter Mold Undercut Release System
Cylindrical Unilifter C-Gib from Progressive Components is redesigned for smooth X- and Y-axis rotational adjustment, improved wear resistance, compatibility and new core blade offerings.
AMBA Award Nominations Are Now Being Accepted
Mold Builder of the Year and Tooling Trailblazer of the Year awards, sponsored by Progressive Components, will address educational outreach initiatives. Deadline is May 21.
Think Safety: Eliminate Hazards Throughout the Shop
The tooling community is taking advantage of new products for safer mold shops and molding facilities.
Mold and Plate Supports Enhance Shop Floor Safety
Progressive Components offers RhinoFeet and RhinoToes, support pads that eliminate trip hazards, elevate molds and hot runner systems and can be easily stored.
Mold Components Target Route Cooling Lines
Progressive Components offers mold designers more route cooling line options within the tool with Diverting Rods, Seal Cores and O-Rings.
How to Extend the Life of Die-Cast Die Components with Proprietary Black Nitride Treatment
Proprietary black nitride treatment significantly increases strength, hardness, wear and soldering resistance of steel die-cast die and mold components.
Cavity Interlocks Offer Precise Alignment of Small Molds
Progressive Components expands alignment lock product line with the Cavity, Flat Cavity and Round Cavity Interlocks for precise alignment.
Expanded CounterView Product Line Offers Exclusive Mold Monitoring Accessories
Progressive Components’ widened mold counting and monitoring products range includes a High Temp CounterView, Retrofit Bracket and CAD geometry availability.
They May Not Be Making Headlines These Days, But They Are VERY Important!
With COVID, unrest and an upcoming election, nobody is talking about our wounded veterans in need … except iWarriors. What is iWarriors, you ask?
Try Something New: Launching a Virtual Event During COVID-19
Trying something new and producing a remote event experience taught the MoldMaking Technology team so much and reinforced what we already know—the mold manufacturing community is committed to coming together to learn, share, and get better.
Ejector Sleeves Extend to Greaseless Applications and Larger Size Range
From black nitride (BN) ejector sleeves, to 300 new sizes in its H-13 ejector sleeve range, Progressive Components has expanded its ejector sleeve offerings for customers.
Amerimold Connects Goes Live Today!
Sessions for Amerimold Connects start today at 9:00 AM (EST)!Make sure you're registered to join in on all the great content this virtual event has to offer.
Cloud-Based Asset Management System Provides Online Filing Cabinet
To reduce tooling managers from using multiple systems to keep track of tools, Progressive Components has developed ProFile, a cloud-based asset tracking program.
VIDEO: Official Announcement of MoldMaking Technology's 2020 Leadtime Leader Award Winner!
Each year, the moldmaking industry recognizes excellence in mold manufacturing with MoldMaking Technology’s, Leadtime Leader Award. It’s not just about being the shop with the shortest delivery times. It’s about what you do with what you have. Meet this year’s winning shop!
Bar Locks Series Expand for Alignment of Large Molds
Progressive Components introduces an expansion of its Z-Series bar locks for alignment of large molds and multi-plate sequencing tools.
Remote Validation Kit Expedites Qualifying Process
Progressive Components announces its remote validation kit, which enables tooling engineers to validate their tools remotely.
Being Connected to Community and Customers during COVID-19
Mold manufacturers and technology suppliers across North America have day jobs and night jobs when it comes to doing more to help both their customers and local communities during the coronavirus pandemic. Here is one mold component supplier’s story.
Connect & Learn at Molding 2020
With Molding 2020 only a couple weeks away, catch up on who will be attending and what you can learn from this educational conference.
VISI CAD Library Offers Complete Catalog
Progressive Components and Tooling Software Technology, LLC (TST) announce the complete Progressive catalog is available within the VISI CAD libraries and available to download via the companies’ websites.
When It Comes to Shop Safety, Think Beyond Pallets and Blocks
More often than not when touring a shop I see a unique approach to solving an everyday problem. This time it was a shop full of big, heavy molds that were not sitting on pallets or blocks across the the floor. Instead, they were sitting on top of small, plastic feet.
Rhino Feet Support Massive Weight Loads
Rhino Feet from Rhino Products, LLC, are especially designed, patent-pending support pads that stick to a wide variety of items and keep them elevated.
Moldmaking Community Keeps iWarriors Going Strong
Since 2011 iWarriors has provided fully-loaded tablets to more than 900 combat wounded service members for their rehab and recovery, and although founders Kim and Tim Bartz are retiring, the program will continue on under STAR Charities.
PODCAST: Falling into Moldmaking and Falling in Love with its People and Possibilities
A conversation with a mold component OEM sales manager chronicles a journey that started with a job in accounting and ended up in a career in moldmaking sales that required hard work, loyalty, integrity, curiosity, openness to change and a lot of fun along the way.
Editorial Advisory Board: Favorite Videos of 2019
MoldMaking Technology’s editorial advisors weigh in on top video picks from the MMT online archives.
K Show Report: Next-Level Efficiency and Control
With a show as big as K 2019 with more than 3,000 exhibitors from 63 nations, you may think that identifying a theme among all the technology would be difficult, but after all is said and done, two words come to mind: efficiency and control.
Insulator Block Protects Monitoring Devices in High Temperatures
Progressive Components announces the release of its insulator block, which installs on the outside of the mold and is used to protect the company’s CounterView and CVe monitor from temperatures when molding high-temperature resins.
Noteworthy News: Helping Hands
As we hear so often in moldmaking, building relationships is one of the keys to a business’s success. So, here’s a look at some recent new releases detailing partnerships within the industry!
CAD Library Offers Mold Designers Convenience and Selection
Progressive Components announces significant advancements to an already extensive CAD Library that includes new file formats and download options with the introductiuon of its new CADalog.
Amerimold Action 2019
Amerimold celebrated 20 years in Rosemont, Illinois, and offered attendees a wide variety of products, programs and pomp.
Live Show Floor Recap from Amerimold 2019
In the midst of exhibitors breaking down at the close of Amerimold 2019, the MoldMaking Technology editorial team set up shop at the MMT booth to do a live Manufacturing Alliance Podcast, sharing some immediate insight and feedback on this annual event.
Progressive and VISI CAD Announce Alliance
Progressive Components and Tooling Software Technology, LLC (TST) have announced an alliance, bringing Progressive's library of parts to VISI CAD, exclusively distributed in North America by TST.
Fun, Games and Celebrations at Amerimold 2019
Let it be known that at Amerimold, no one ever goes home without a smile and some fun memories after the Networking Party!
2019 Technology Review: Mold Components
MoldMaking Technology’s 2019 Technology Review and Sourcing Guide offers some of the latest highlighted products and services from supplier companies from a variety of categories, including mold components.
PODCAST: Mold Maintenance-No Longer an Afterthought
After attending an intensive three-day mold maintenance workshop earlier this year, it was a real pleasure to sit down with two of the workshop’s mold maintenance educators to learn more about what makes them tick both personally and professionally.
Incoe Celebrates Its New Global Headquarters
Hot runner supplier hosts open house in Auburn Hills, Michigan.
Three Ways That Standard Components Make Mold Building More Profitable
Instead of making them in house, moldmakers can reduce costs and liability by using standardized components.
Amerimold 2019 Update: Tool Shop Live!
Mold maintenance and repair is a team effort. It involves communication and collaboration among suppliers, mold manufacturers and customers to ensure that the appropriate people, technologies and processes are put in place to keep a mold running. That is the motivation behind Tool Shop Live! at Amerimold next week.
Hands-on Workshop Teaches Mold Maintenance Process
Intensive workshop teaches the process of mold maintenance to help put an end to the firefighting culture of many toolrooms.
WEBINAR: Remote Standardization, Validation, and Monitoring of Injection Molds
Register for a free webinar hosted by Progressive Components to be held tomorrow, Wednesday, May 15, at 2:00 p.m EST. Take an in-depth look into a proven system for monitoring mold performance and maintenance.
System Cooling Platform Validates Pressure, Temperature and Flow
Progressive Components’s System Cooling platform offers validation of pressure, temperature and flow in a mold’s cooling circuits.
VIDEO: How Monitoring A Mold's Activity Helps Improve Mold Performance
MoldMaking Technology Editorial Director Christina Fuges interviews Lorena Fisher of Progressive Components to learn why mold monitoring is so critical for optimizing a mold's productivity.
VIDEO: How Water Flow Monitoring Optimizes Mold Production
MoldMaking Technology Editorial Director Christina Fuges and Progressive Components' Rebecca Hamstra discuss why monitoring water flow in injection molds is important.
Redefining Learning Labs
Training facility partners with a local North Carolina community college to challenge advanced manufacturing students to design parts, which will then be converted into mold designs for the training facility.
The Most Viewed Products of 2018
MoldMaking Technology wraps up the year by showcasing the most-viewed products of 2018.
Blazing Multiple Trails to Successful Recruitment and Training
Several mold manufacturing companies have shared how their workforce development strategies have evolved to meet the needs of today’s industry. Here, MSI Mold Builders describes its apprenticeship program, its collaboration with nearby schools and its approach to generating interest in the industry and then in MSI Mold Builders as a place to foster a career.
AMBA Chicago Gets the Word Out at Student Summit
Eight schools were granted a $250 travel grant to help offset the cost of attending SmartForce Student Summit.
Scenes from Amerimold 2018 in Novi, Michigan
From technology demos and tech talks to awards and arcade games, Amerimold had much to offer industry this year.
2018 Technology Review and Sourcing Guide: Mold Components
MoldMaking Technology’s annual Technology Review and Sourcing Guide is an accurate, comprehensive, easy-to-read and easy-to-use use guide for researching today’s technology, equipment, products and services. The year’s latest moldmaking product developments within mold engineering/design, build and maintenance/repair are broken down into 10 sections, including mold components.
Scenes from Amerimold 2018, Part 3—Leadtime Leader, Networking and Fun!
Each year, Amerimold 2018 provides an excellent forum for the moldmaking industry to connect—but not just on the show floor. Here are more scenes from the lighter side.
Components Catalog Reveals Extended Components Line
Progressive Components is expanding its components offering. At Amerimold 2018, Progressive Components introduces its new v12 Catalog.
Connecting Mold Builders and Buyers at Amerimold 2018
Mold buyers and builders experience many of the same challenges for which they are each seeking solutions and that is where Amerimold comes into play.
NPE2018 Video Recap: Exhilaration, Innovation and Inspiration
MoldMaking Technology’s editorial team recaps some highlights from the show floor at NPE2018, including a technology slideshow, seven podcasts recorded live from the event and a video.
Get Up Close and Personal with Technology Demos at Amerimold
On top of our show floor Tech Talks, the event offers attendees the opportunity to see live presentations at select exhibitor booths on a specific technology or process, while demonstrating how it works live on the show floor.
Demonstrations Highlight Course Opportunities and More
RJG Inc. holds multiple live demonstrations of its products on an injection molding machine in its booth.
Successful Supplier Nights Help "Mold" Careers
The Chicago Chapter of the American Mold Builders Association (AMBA) recently hosted its fourth successful supplier night fundraiser that continues to provide much-needed support for promoting careers in moldmaking.
Standardization Solutions Drive Mold Component Innovations
Mold component suppliers continue to standardize products that speed mold building while also developing technology that addresses design, cooling, release and other challenges.
How MoldMaking Technology Magazine Came to Be
Twenty years ago a moldmaker launched this magazine, legitimizing an industry and then passed it on to a passionate media company, which took it to the next level.
Tradeshow Tuesday: Gearing Up for NPE2018
Cruise through this week’s slideshow for a peek at some of what will be on display at NPE2018.
Components Catalog Reveals Expanded Components Line
Progressive Components is expanding its components offering. At NPE2018, Progressive Components introduces its new v12 Catalog.
Collaborate to Educate on Plastics Technologies
Moldmakers, industry consultants and technology suppliers collaborate to educate on plastics technologies.
Improved Mold Monitoring System Technology Eases Data Monitoring
Improvements to Progressive Components and AST Technology’s CVe Live Technology, which works with the CVe Mould Monitoring System, are designed to improve user convenience.
Engage the Next Generation – Sponsor the Plastics Race
Sponsor The Plastics Race. Engage the next generation workforce by promoting our industry and your company. Participate in The Race and build relationships!
Putting the Wow Factor into a Moldmaking Career Display
The Chicago Chapter of the American Mold Builders Association added more visually-enticing items that teach about, and promote, moldmaking as a high-tech career option.
Fun Friday: The Moldmaking Community Shows Patriotism, Heart and More
On September 15, 2017 our team at Alliance Specialties and Laser Sales partnered with our friends Tim and Kim Bartz from iWarriors and Mold Craft to host the inaugural Alliance iWarriors Charity Golf Outing.
Collaboration Key to Completing Puzzle Mold for Training
Collaborative manufacturing is what helped make an apprenticeship training program and a scientific molding training program come together in the form of a puzzle mold on July 21.
Amerimold 2017: Multitudes of Metalworking Materials and Machines
Amerimold proved once again that it is THE event for moldmaking.
SLIDESHOW: Technology Showcase, Amerimold Product Showcase
This is our industry’s show, and this week we bring you yet more previews of what you can expect to find as you walk the aisles of the biggest Amerimold Expo yet.
Throwback Thursday: Run Clean, Run Efficient
If you or your customer is concerned with achieving faster cycle times (and who isn't?) plus cleanroom-caliber mold function and lower maintenance, here's a throwback case study about better undercut release for small medical, or similar, parts using expandable cavities.
In Memory of Donald Starkey Sr., D&L/Progressive Components
It is with a sad heart that I submit this blog. The industry has lost yet another gem of a person in Don Starkey Sr.
What You Put Out There Comes Back to You
Surely there is truth in this headline. I’ve seen it happen with my own eyes and recently witnessed it again when I participated with the Society of Plastics Engineers (SPE) Mold Technologies Division as its Mold Maker of the Year Award was presented to Geoff Luther, owner and president of A-1 Tool Corporation in Melrose Park, Illinois. The award was well-deserved.
SPE Mold Technologies Division Seeks Nominees
Hundreds of attendees from all over the world, including members of the Mold Technologies Division, attended ANTEC in Indianapolis to share knowledge and research, to network, and to learn.
Let the Games and Trash Talk Begin!
Like the Chicago Chapter of the AMBA, the West Michigan Chapter is stepping up its game and will hold its first Supplier Night in Grand Rapids, Michigan, on June 29.
In Winter or Spring, iSledders Warms the Heart
I know spring has sprung, and the snow is a faint memory (at least for the majority of us), but now is as good a time as any to applaud and share some great news from iWarriors, which held its second annual iSledders Charity Snowmobile Ride in February, raising $5,500.
Seeing the Industry with a New Perspective
Last week I attended Plastec West in Anaheim, California (what a nice break from frigid temps in Chicago!). It was my first trade show as senior editor of MoldMaking Technology versus attending as a public relations manager for plastics industry suppliers, and I enjoyed seeing everything with a new perspective.
"Rule of Thumb" vs. Engineered Lock Selection
A guide that applies engineering principles is designed to help engineers select properly sized alignment components.
Mold Maker, Designer Recognized at Amerimold
SPE presented its moldmaker and mold designer of the year awards to Harry Raimondi of Bales Metal Surface Solutions (Downer’s Grove, Illinois) and Chris Hanes of Micro Mold Company Inc. and Plastikos Inc. (Erie, Pennsylvania).
CVe Monitor v2 and OnDemand Software Upgraded with More New Features
Monitoring Mold Activity has Never Been Easier
Innovative Solutions, Proven Performance at NPE
Progressive Components introduced its Lifetime Guarantee for its patent pending Z-Series Alignment Locks at NPE2015.
Snowmobiling for a Good Cause
Not only did the snow bring together some of the mold building community for a little snowmobiling, it also helped raise money for a good cause. Proceeds from this inaugural I-Sledders 2015 Charity Snowmobile Ride on February 20-22 benefit iWarriors, which provides technology and assistance for wounded service members to help with rehabilitation and recovery from physical injuries, post traumatic stress and traumatic brain injuries.
On Display at the Windsor Mold Expo
Here is a small sampling of technology that caught my eye.
Testing Engineered Options for Mold Alignment
Performance data on alignment components helps select the best treatment, improve the design and chart more precise application recommendations.
MoldMakers Giving Back
Since I began covering moldmaking 15 years ago, I've discovered two very important characteristics of the men and women who make up this industry--besides their craftsmanship and technology know-how--passion and generosity. And here is just one current example of those qualities. Westminster Tool has contributed $30,000 to fund and support the new Manufacturing Technology Center at Quinebaug Valley Community College.
Mold Designer and Moldmaker of the Year Awards at NPE2012
The Society of Plastic Engineers/Mold Making and Mold Design Division honored two of its members during the Division’s Annual Business Meeting at ANTEC 2012, which was held in conjunction with NPE2012. 2012 Mold Designer of the Year: Barbara Arnold – Feret from Fort Worth, TX.
MMT in Rushour at NPE2012
Longtime MoldMaking Technology supporter, Progressive Components--led by Glenn and Don Starkey--had Rushour performing in their booth at the close of each day during NPE2012.
Simplify and Streamline
Technology suppliers discuss how equipment speeds time-to-market.
An Array of Components
Collapsible cores, expandable cavities, monitors, tooling systems, and more.
Driving Maintenance Forward
Many who build production molds are increasingly making recommendations to those running their tools, and providing the means to monitor and track that activity to get the most out of their initial investment.
Run Clean, Run Efficient
Better undercut release for small medical parts.
ToolTalk
Part development included throughout tooling and production.
New CVe Monitor for Tracking Mold Activity
This device monitors more than just mold cycles completed.
U.S. Molds: The Value Advantage
U.S. moldmakers are increasingly noticing projects coming back from offshore. But it’s not happening because of some wave of patriotism from their customers. Instead, it just increasingly makes more dollars and more sense.
More Complex Tooling Solutions Yield Significant Cost Savings
Real-life scenarios describing how to make the optimum tooling strategy decisions—including early supplier involvement.
Cost of Ownership: A Lifetime of Molding Savings
“There’s nothing more expensive than a cheap mold,” has been said by many a tooling engineer after a bargain of a mold began bleeding profits.
Designing for Downstream
Steps can be taken to deliver to your customer not only a better performing tool, but a better performing tooling investment.
Looking Back and Planning Forward
A review of a decade of global challenges and change.
Software Enhances Advancing Technologies
CAD/CAM’s improved features and new capabilities—combined with the latest in technologies like high speed and five-axis machining, new cutting tools and 3-D technologies—allow moldmakers to achieve the highest quality in the shortest time.
Lean Manufacturing Trims Leadtimes
Moldmakers aren't the only ones reducing leadtimes. Component and hot runner suppliers are delivering their equipment and supplies faster to accommodate industry demand.
Die Cast Dies: The Benefits of a Proactive Tool Build
The advantages of the two basic styles of vacuum approaches: valve and valve-less.
High Cavitation Molds Promote Economies of Scale
Toolmakers are developing increasingly complex molds for high production of thinwall parts.
Don’t Build the “Same Old Same Mold”
Steps for evaluating the latest mold innovations in order to move along the evolution process.
Advances in Hot Runner Systems Drive Innovations in Part Engineering and Styling
Design and performance capabilities of components fabricated in state-of-the-art molds enhance the appeal of new vehicles.
Packaging Molds Go High-Tech to Improve Productivity and Economy
The ability to design and build innovative molds for advanced processing needs is key to being competitive and profitable in a low-margin market.
Mold Builders Carve Lean Niche
Commodity-oriented consumer manufacturing left North America, but mold industry survivors are finding strong growth in technical market sectors.
Eliminating Contamination and Wear in Cleanroom Tooling
A review of considerations that tooling engineers will need to keep in mind to ensure success within cleanroom environments.
Medical: The Right Rx for American Tool Builders
When technology, quality and speed step to the fore in the medical world, so does the North American mold and die industry with some innovative products and processes.
It’s Gut-Check Time for Tool Builders
It’s time to adapt or die as business evolution dictates development of new business and manufacturing approaches.
Understanding the Advantages Of U.S. Molds
The key to setting your shop’s direction toward the best targets is knowing one’s advantages when it comes to a U.S.-built mold.
Ensure Component Integrity With the Right Mold Management System
How tooling engineers can avoid mold performance unknowns and surprises downstream.
How to Compete in the Global Marketplace
A new program gives moldmakers the opportunity to learn business strategies that will help their company thrive.
SPI Wraps up Mexican Trade Mission
Moldmakers travel to Mexico to learn the pros and cons of establishing operations in another country from the experts who have been through it.
Are There Mold Sales Opportunities Nearby?
Are there sales opportunities for U.S. moldmakers right here in our own backyard?
2000 Asia Trade Mission Follow-up: Lessons Learned
After doing their homework overseas, moldmakers candidly discuss the impact that last year's trade mission has had on their businesses a year later.
Mold Base Advancements Set a New Standard
Further standardization and more options allow moldmakers to concentrate on fine detail.
Moldmaking and Mexico: What Can This Market Do for Your Business?
Opening a satellite sales and service center south of the border allows moldmakers to better compete in a global marketplace.
Growth Strategies for the U.S. Moldmaker: Positioning Your Company for Growth During Challenging Times
This final part will describe how to formulate a strategy in order to position your company during challenging times.
Growth Strategies for the U.S. Moldmaker - Overseas Exploration: Moldmakers Participating in the Global Market
Part three of a four-part series that will describe the current challenges for the U.S. moldmaking industry and what strategies some companies are executing to grow their business.
Growth Strategies for the U.S. Moldmaker - Harnessing Rapid Technologies for Plastic Tooling Applications
Part two of a four part series that will discuss how integrating these rapid technologies can serve as a means of differentiating oneself from competitors, but alone does not ensure a company's security.
Growth Strategies for the U.S. Moldmaker - Understanding Your Competition - Here and Abroad
This article begins a four part series that will describe the current competitive conditions in the plastics tooling industry and what some companies are doing to grow their businesses amidst challenging conditions.