Tooling Inserts

Using DMLS to produce smarter tool... short leadtimes, increased productivity

The DMLS technology was originally developed to create complex cores and cavities for the prototype tooling industry. The initial machine (EOS M250) and materials (Bronze DM20) provided significant benefits compared with other rapid prototyping technologies at this time and were the right answer for the quick production of a small series of parts. However, the ability to produce production tooling inserts has never been demonstrated with the initial machine.

With the introduction of a new machine (EOS M270) with a new type of laser and new types of materials, it is now possible to envisage the use of this technology for the manufacturing of smarter production inserts for plastic, ceramic, metal injection moulding and die casting. Not only can high strength and hardness tool steel be used, but extra features such as conformal cooling, which will enable a more uniform distribution of temperature inside the inserts, can be added in the design of the tool at no extra cost.

Shorter leadtimes, increased productivity and better part quality can now be reached with the DMLS inserts.

The design of DMLS tools is very different from the design of the same tool using conventional machining methods and 3T will give you the best advice on how to design the right DMLS inserts.

Prototype tooling	Die casting tool

Cross-section of plastic injection moulding pin showing internal features (Fig 1. CAD Image Fig 2. DMLS Insert)