Validate Your Product Using Fast, Production-Quality Parts | Low-Cost Tooling, A Variety Of Materials And Finishes | International Prototype Pricing Covers Tariffs | Auto-Quoted Estimates For Prototypes
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Our prototype molding services can assist you in closing the gap between initial prototypes and help validate your product for full-scale production runs. Make the most of all the technologies, materials, and finishing options that EPTAHUB provides in our plastic injection molding services to obtain parts of the same quality as you would expect from a complete production run. The price of your molded prototypes includes tariffs, which simplifies your procurement process.
Our project managers and engineers will collaborate closely with you to understand the unique requirements of your project. They will also help you make well-informed decisions to minimize costs and shorten lead times. To begin, just upload your 3D CAD file to the EPTAHUB Instant Quoting Engine®. Most projects are eligible for an auto-quoted estimate, enabling you to budget and plan your project without waiting for responses. Once you are ready, submit your request for review, and our team will work closely with you at every stage!
Sometimes, it can be difficult to decide whether to start with Prototype Molding or directly move to Production Molding. EPTAHUB recognizes that each project is unique, and our experts will work with you to make a wise decision. Prototype Molding may be the best choice for projects with the following characteristics:
When considering a prototype mold, several key factors should be taken into account. The table below can help you determine if your injection molding project is suitable for prototype tooling or if you need to consider higher-level options like our Bridge or Production Tooling services.
| Subject | Consideration |
|---|---|
| Tool Life | Prototype tooling is made of softer materials, so it will wear out more quickly. |
| Mold Texturing & Polishing | Finishes on prototype tools wear off rapidly, making them not cost - effective. B to D SPI finishes are suggested for this type of tooling. |
| Gating Methods | Gates are usually limited to edge, direct, and fan techniques. Bridge or Production tooling supports more advanced methods. |
| Mold Classes | Class 105 and 104 molds are the most common for prototyping molding runs. Higher - class molds are generally reserved for our higher volume molding services. |
| Material Selection | All the injection molding materials we offer can be used for prototype molding. However, abrasive materials (e.g., glass - filled ones) may reduce the lifespan of a prototype tool. |
| Tool Origin | EPTAHUB provides international mold manufacturing services. Customers retain full ownership of their molds regardless of where they are produced. |
We can provide millions of combinations of materials, surface treatments, tolerances, markings and certifications for your order.
Parts are directly delivered to your door, eliminating the need for you to find suppliers, manage projects, handle logistics or arrange transportation.
We hold ISO 9001:2015, ISO 13485, AS9100D and IATF 16949 certifications.
Learn how to easily obtain an instant quote for Prototype Tooling services through the EPTAHUB Instant Quoting Engine®.
Simplify your budgeting and procurement process with the EPTAHUB Instant Quoting Engine®. Upload your 3D CAD files to get an auto-quoted estimate for pricing and lead times, allowing you to plan your project without the usual delays of waiting for a manual quote. This powerful tool saves you precious time by providing the necessary information upfront. When you are ready to proceed, our team of experts will thoroughly review your project to confirm and finalize your quote. They will also offer consultation to ensure your project is set up for success.
Injection molding is utilized in a wide range of industries, including aerospace, medical devices, consumer goods, energy, electronics, automotive, robotics, toys, and many others.
3D printing is a great process for rapid prototyping! However, prototyping with injection molding offers a much wider range of materials, finishes, and textures that other processes cannot provide. Additionally, prototyping with injection molding lays the foundation for potential full-scale production in the future. You can iterate and adjust the design to fit the same process used for production quantities. Many customers start with 3D printing for initial prototyping but switch to injection molding when preparing to scale up production and turn their creation into its final form.
The SPI (Society of Plastic Engineers) developed mold classifications to standardize the definitions of mold types based on mold material, tool design, features, and production volume. Mold classes range from 101 (the most advanced, suitable for high-volume production) to 105 (for prototyping applications). This classification system simplifies the selection of the appropriate injection mold for thermoplastic molding based on production needs. It is important to note that mold classes are intended to be used as a guide.
A MUD (Master Unit Die) is a type of mold that uses a standard injection molding frame with inserts that determine the shape of the internal cavity and, consequently, the final part. You can think of it as a quick-change system similar to swapping out the head of a disposable razor. Ultimately, this type of tool helps reduce costs and lead times because most of the machining time is focused on the core and cavity work rather than all other aspects of a more complex tooling setup. MUD tooling is often used in prototype molding applications.
Eptahub can usually deliver a prototype injection mold component within 3 weeks. Depending on the specific requirements of your project, we can even deliver in as few as 5 business days!
All the injection molding materials we normally offer are available for prototype molding!
Yes, we can produce parts in multiple colors even for the same order! When producing parts in multiple colors for the same order, a purge charge will be added
After receiving your order, one of our manufacturing engineers will review the statement of work. A case manager will be assigned, and a suitable manufacturing supplier will be identified. A comprehensive DFM/PEG report will be created and provided for your approval. Once approved, the production of tooling and molds will begin. T1 samples will be produced and shipped to you for approval. After you approve the samples, the remaining parts will be manufactured.
On EPTAHUB, pricing for internationally produced prototype parts (non-commercial components or models) includes tariffs. You can learn more by reading our article on understanding international shipping costs.
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Our automated quoting system gives you instant pricing so you can quickly estimate your project costs.
For high-precision or complex parts, our senior account managers can provide more detailed quotes and help you find the best overall solution for your needs.
