Mold Design Flashcards

What is the primary purpose of the Parting Line feature in SOLIDWORKS Mold Tools?

Answer: To define the boundary between the core and cavity halves of a mold

The Parting Line defines the edge where the core and cavity mold halves meet, which is required before generating parting and shut-off surfaces.

What does applying a draft angle to the walls of a molded part accomplish?

Answer: It allows the part to be ejected from the mold without damage

Draft angles provide a slight taper on vertical walls so the part can release cleanly from the mold during ejection without sticking or tearing.

Which SOLIDWORKS tool uses a color-coded map to identify faces with insufficient draft relative to a pull direction?

Answer: Draft Analysis

Draft Analysis uses color mapping to display positive draft, negative draft, and straddle faces, helping the designer confirm all walls will release properly.

In a standard two-part injection mold, which half typically forms the external (cosmetic) surfaces of the molded part?

Answer: The cavity (A-side)

The cavity (A-side) forms the external or cosmetic surfaces of the part, while the core (B-side) forms internal features and is usually where ejector pins are located.

What does the Scale feature in SOLIDWORKS Mold Tools compensate for during mold design?

Answer: Shrinkage of the molded material as it cools after injection

The Scale feature enlarges the mold geometry by the material's shrinkage factor so the final cooled part meets the intended design dimensions.

What does the Tooling Split feature in SOLIDWORKS generate?

Answer: Core and cavity solid bodies from the workpiece block using the parting surfaces

Tooling Split uses the defined parting surface to cut the mold workpiece block into separate core and cavity solid bodies within a single part file.

In SOLIDWORKS Mold Tools, what are shut-off surfaces used for?

Answer: To close through-holes and openings in a part that pass between both mold halves

Shut-off surfaces fill holes and windows in the part geometry where the parting surface cannot be automatically generated, bridging gaps between core and cavity.