MOLDMAKING : Intermediate (Book with DVD) (Workbook Included)

Mold Making: Intermediate combines many different practical and visual skills with knowledge of specialized materials and techniques. Molding is the process of manufacturing by shaping liquid or pliable raw material using a rigid frame called a mold or matrix. The manufacturer who makes the molds is called the mold maker. This book will introduce the knowledge and skills for those studying and/or working in molding industry.

About this Book

The information in this book consists of competencies that a person must achieve to be able to machine parts using a variety of machining equipment and tools on plain carbon steel, heat resistant steel and other metals and alloy using different machining processes; perform precision assembly and testing complex engineering components and mechanical assemblies in a production, manufacturing environment. It also includes minor maintenance of equipment being used.

About the Molding Industry

A mold or mould is a hollowed-out block that is filled with a liquid or pliable material like plastic, glass, metal, or ceramic raw materials. The liquid hardens or sets inside the mold, adopting its shape. A mold is the counterpart to a cast. The very common bi-valve molding process uses two molds, one for each half of the object. Piece-molding uses a number of different molds, each creating a section of a complicated object. This is generally only used for larger and more valuable objects. A Moldmaker or molder is a skilled trades worker who makes molds for use in metalworking and other manufacturing industries. It is sometimes regarded as a variety of the trade of the toolmaker. Moldmakers are generally employed in foundries, where molds are used to cast products from metals such as aluminium and cast iron. Moldmakers may also be employed in the plastics or ceramics industries. The process of manufacturing moulds is now often highly automated. Mold designers can work for many types of manufacturers. They can receive further on-the-job training to work with CAD software, read blueprints, render mold designs and devise and interpret mathematical formulas and calculations. In addition, mold designers may also work closely with customers or be responsible for quality control in the manufacturing process. Workers who gain solid experience as a mold designer and possess important qualities such as critical thinking, organizational skills, good time management, and especially math and technical skills will have the highest chance of advancing their careers.