Abstract
In this project, we would like to explore the viability of using 3D printed injection molds to cost-effectively produce low-volume production runs. These 3D printed molds are much more cost-effective than traditional methods, however, the 3D printed molds often only withstand 50–100 cycles. Research is needed to determine how to improve the durability of the molds. This can be accomplished by measuring and documenting how injection molds made from various plastics, and various 3D printing technologies, react under the stresses of an injection molding machine. We can develop a case study using 4 different types of plastics that can be used to create the 3D printed mold. The 3 plastics would be Formlabs Ridged 10k Resin, Formlabs Clear v4, and Formlabs Tough 2000 Resin. These materials will be printed using various 3D printing technologies. This paper will focus on a literature review of the positives and negatives of 3D printing additively manufactured injection molding tooling and propose potential solutions for many of the negatives of 3D printed molds. The case study portion will be based on how we are planning to perform the case study, but it has not yet been completed.
