Injection Mold DFM Checklist

Design for manufacturability (DFM) helps identify tooling and production risks before manufacture. Use this checklist to discuss part requirements and the decisions that need project-specific review.

1. Keep Wall Thickness Uniform

Review wall thickness and transitions against the resin, flow length and part requirements. Large local changes can affect filling, cooling and appearance; avoid treating one numerical wall rule as suitable for every resin.

2. Review Draft Requirements

Review draft with the mold opening direction, surface texture and feature depth. Agree the required draft for the selected geometry and finish before the mold design is approved.

3. Review Undercuts and Side Actions

Identify undercuts and evaluate whether a part change or a release mechanism is appropriate. Sliders, lifters and other approaches add different space, motion and maintenance requirements.

4. Use Generous Corner Radii

Review corner radii with the adjacent walls, intended load and manufacturing approach. Select radii for the specific geometry and resin rather than applying a universal minimum.

5. Proportion Ribs and Bosses Correctly

Consider rib and boss thickness with the adjacent wall, fastening needs and visible surfaces. Avoid unnecessary local material accumulation and review sink risk for the selected resin.

6. Decide the Gate Location Early

Discuss gate position during the DFM review, including filling, weld lines, visible gate marks and ejection. A later gate change may require tooling work.

7. Lock In the Right Material Up Front

Confirm the intended resin grade, fillers, color and relevant application requirements. Changes to these inputs can affect shrinkage assumptions and the tooling design.

8. Specify Tolerances Only Where They Matter

Identify critical dimensions and agree feasible tolerances and inspection methods for the part. Do not apply a universal machining tolerance to every molded feature.

9. Plan for Ejection

Review ejector contact areas, release direction and the sequence of any mechanisms. Complex geometry may require a staged release approach, which should be checked during trial.

10. Involve Your Mold Maker Early

Share the current part model and requirements early. Agree the DFM scope, open questions and design documents before committing to mold manufacture.

Request a DFM Review

Send your part drawing, material and production requirements to discuss a DFM review. The review scope and quotation depend on the project information.