From CAD to Cavity: What Happens After You Upload a Design

Sending us your CAD file is just the start of the injection moulding journey. Behind the scenes, there’s a lot that goes into turning your 3D model into a high-quality moulded part.

Here’s what happens next.

Step 1: Design Review

As soon as we receive your CAD file, our engineers will review the design to make sure it’s DFM-suitable for injection moulding (i.e. Design for Manufacture). We’ll check for things like:

• Wall thickness
• Draft angles
• Undercuts
• Ejection feasibility
• Tooling complexity

If changes are needed, we’ll work with you to adjust the design. Our goal is always to make sure your part is functional, mouldable and cost-effective.

Step 2: Tool Design and Split

Once the design is approved, we create the mould tool in 3D CAD. This involves splitting the part into:

• Core and cavity – the main halves of the tool
• Side actions or sliding cores – for any undercuts or complex geometry
• Ejection features – pins, sleeves or plates to release the part from the tool

We also model features such as gates, runners and vents to ensure proper flow and cooling.

Step 3: Tool Manufacturing

We then move into toolmaking. Using advanced CAM software, we program our CNC machining centres to cut the various components of the tool:

• Hardened steel or aluminium cores and cavities
• Electrodes for EDM (if needed)
• Tooling plates and inserts

The tool is then assembled and tested before first shots are produced.

Step 4: Trial and Testing

We run the tool with your chosen material to produce sample parts. These are tested for:

• Dimensional accuracy
• Surface finish
• Fit and function

If tweaks are needed, we’ll make them quickly and efficiently.

Step 5: Production

Once the tool is approved, we’re ready to run production parts. Whether you need a small batch for testing or a larger volume for full-scale use, we’ll get it done.

Ready to get started?

To get a quote, upload your CAD file through our website for a fast response and expert guidance. We’ll review your design for manufacturability (DFM), help turn it into a fully mouldable part, and support you through every stage of the process.