How long does it take to make an injection mold?
Understanding the factors that drive tooling lead times helps in project planning.
The timeline for building a mold depends heavily on its complexity and size. A simple, single-cavity 'open and shut' mold for a small part can often be finished in as little as 3 weeks. However, a multi-cavity tool with complex slide actions, lifters, or hot runner systems generally requires 8 weeks or more.
We provide a detailed Gantt chart at the start of every project so you know exactly when to expect the design review, the steel cutting, and the T1 samples. If you have a critical deadline, we also offer expedited services for certain types of tooling.
Need to Know
Factors like texturing, high-polish finishes, or the need for specific imported steel grades can also influence the schedule.