TOOLING PRODUCTS

Composite tools are constructed with similar methods and materials as used in composites production. The cost of composites tools is considerably less than that of steel or aluminum molds. As an added benefit most composites shops have the technology and "know-how" to build composites tooling, whereas metal tooling usually has to be contracted to a tool and die manufacturer. There is a range of methodology for the construction for composite tools, as well as many materials options. Quality tool building is critical to the quality of the part produced, and a significant level of expertise in tooling design and manufacturing is required. Based on internal tool building capability, the appropriate decision of in-house construction or outsourcing can be determined. The most often used materials associated with composites tool building are detailed below.Composite tools are constructed with similar methods and materials as used in composites production. The cost of composites tools is considerably less than that of steel or aluminum molds. As an added benefit most composites shops have the technology and "know-how" to build composites tooling, whereas metal tooling usually has to be contracted to a tool and die manufacturer. There is a range of methodology for the construction for composite tools, as well as many materials options. Quality tool building is critical to the quality of the part produced, and a significant level of expertise in tooling design and manufacturing is required. Based on internal tool building capability, the appropriate decision of in-house construction or outsourcing can be determined. The most often used materials associated with composites tool building are detailed below.