Khanh
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- Jan 31, 2016
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Hey peeps,
I have the 3D drawing of what I want made but now comes the part of finding who to make it for me (obv from China).
Anyone have experience finding a manufacturer that makes custom products?
What pitfalls are there to be wary of?
Hi Sebastya,
I believe I am qualified to answer your question. My credentials are that I am a US based manufacturing engineer that works in high pressure aluminum die casting . This is similar to injection molding in the basic sense but more difficult since we operate at 2x the liquid temperatures at faster speeds ~ .75 Mach. I design molds, processes, but mostly manage the engineering aspect of the project from conception (Purchase Order from client) to delivering the first articles. I contract a lot of molds to be constructed in China due to the fact that it cost 4-6 times to build it in the US. The cost of the mold will depend on the complexity, wall thickness, and dimension of your intended design. There are many US based China mold companies here in the US at will build and even run production in China (one stop shop). You asked about pitfalls:
1) Your design needs to be reviewed for DFM (design for manufacturing): Draft, geometry, tolerances, etc.
2) You need to understand the basic cost and components of a mold so you don't get ripped off, i.e. metal type of mold (H13, holder steel, Ulvar Supreme, vacuum, side action, venting, etc). A basic mold( open and close, no slides) for a 2 in x 2in part will run you around 7 grand.
3) You need to understand somewhat of the manufacturing process, ie: what other post processing is needed to get you to the final product like deburring, sand-blasting, machining, powdercoat, etc
4) I suggest arming yourself with as much knowledge as possible or seeking consultant from an manufacturing engineer before you proceed. This will greatly reduce headwind you will face in your process.
5) attend a manufacturing trade show. There will be many vendors there, but be aware that if you don't know some basic knowledge, you will get ripped off.
Good luck!