Mastering the Mold Transfer Process

Looking to move your injection molding business to a new supplier?

This requires a physical transfer of the injection molds used for production, a complex process that involves many factors beyond shipping. There are several reasons why hiring a new injection molder might occur, whether it is cost reduction, capacity, quality improvements, the opportunity to take advantage of a strategic partnership, or to optimize the supply chain for logistical purposes.

At Ferriot, we specialize in providing the engineering expertise required for seamless mold transfers. We can ensure a successful transition.

Prior to initiating the transfer process, it is important to address several points of consideration:

• Mold compatibility: Our experienced team assesses the compatibility of your existing molds with our equipment and processes. Mold compatibility helps maintain production quality and efficiency.
• Mold maintenance and wear evaluation: Our staff will thoroughly evaluate the current condition of transferred molds, identifying wear and determining the level of preventive maintenance required. Our expertise in mold inspection and maintenance practices help promote optimal performance.
• Process qualification: Ferriot handles all process validation activities, including Design of Experiments (DOE), control plans, process Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (FMEA) and capability studies. Our team also resolves any technical challenges that arise during the mold transfer process. This can include identifying and solving issues related to mold compatibility, part quality, process optimization and any necessary tool adjustments.

There are various steps prior to, during, and after mold transfer that can help ensure a successful project outcome. Some key points to consider prior to transfer would include:

• Establish sufficient inventory buffer: Prior to the transfer, create an inventory buffer that allows the new supplier enough time to set up the necessary provisions for uninterrupted future business. Insufficient buffer time adds pressure and hampers execution.
• Allocate ample time to close out current supplier: Prior to transfer, calculate the amount of time required for the current supplier to complete remaining open orders. In addition:
  • Collect and inventory all customer-specific information and property, including
    • molds
    • unique raw materials
    • special gauges
    • fixtures
    • equipment
    • updated mold designs
    • product and process qualification information
    • mold maintenance records and
    • quality concerns
    • Records transfer: Ensure proper identification, tagging and recording based on associated part numbers.
    • Photographic record: Photograph all assets and palletize them for shipping to the new supplier.
• Establish clear deliverables for quality, delivery, service and costs.

Upon receipt, we depalletize, inspect and clean the customer’s property. Next, we verify and record receipt of parts and equipment and note any damage that might have occurred during transfer.

Our team will evaluate mold wear, develop a preventative mold maintenance schedule and ensure the mold can adapt to the processing equipment.

We love it when customers push us. In one recent example, an original equipment manufacturer (OEM) of gas pumps challenged us to convert a group of metal parts at the boot of a gasoline nozzle to engineered plastic components. Ferriot engineers helped develop a durable plastic solution that resists gas vapors, allowing the OEM to save money without sacrificing functionality.

Ferriot engineers, in this case, helped set in motion a new course for the production of gasoline pumps.

Call us with your innovative ideas for transforming — and economizing — the products and equipment of tomorrow. For years, we have been helping customers do just that and look forward to your next challenge.