Mold Type
Family Molds
Molds that produce related parts in one shot, useful when balanced filling and part demand fit the project.
Family Molds tooling notes
Molds that produce related parts in one shot, useful when balanced filling and part demand fit the project.
Clarify whether this mold type fits the project stageDefine mold life, sample approval and maintenance expectationsReview DFM risks that can force sliders, lifters or runner changesCompare cost assumptions before choosing a supplier
Decision notes
| Best used when | Main risk to clarify |
|---|---|
| Molds that produce related parts in one shot, useful when balanced filling and part demand fit the project. | Part volume balance and quality expectations must be realistic. |
Buyer tradeoffs
| Tradeoff | Buyer impact |
|---|---|
| Efficiency | Related parts can share one tool when demand and quality expectations fit. |
| Balance | Different part volumes and geometries can create uneven fill and quality. |
| Planning | A family tool is weak when one part changes often and the other does not. |
Acceptance signals
All parts meet fit and appearance requirements in the same shot.Demand balance supports the family route.Open design changes are low-risk.
RFQ details to prepare
3D CAD and 2D drawingPart material and surface finishExpected first order and annual volumeTarget mold lifeT1 approval and inspection requirementWhether the mold stays in China or will be exported