STAGE 8

FINAL MOULD DESIGN

While discussing the mouldmaking general arrangement drawings, the team, particularly those representing the customer, mouldmaker and moulder, should conduct and overall evaluation in order to highlight any problem areas which might affect tool manufacture or component quality. This is the last stage before the metal is cut. Remember that close tolerance mouldings may not be achievable without prototyping moulding and / or computer analyses. Very close tolerance requirements can sometimes only be achieved by empirical development of the mould; the cost and time implications of this exercise must be fully understood.

It is important to agree achievable delivery dates and to highlight such on the project plan. Use Critical Path Analysis - if such is justified by the complexity of the project. This should be approved and endorsed by all team members. The timing of regular progress reports by the mouldmaker should be arranged and it may well be helpful to agree an appropriate format for these documents (see helpful Form MPP). It should be stressed that occurrences with cost / time implications will require immediate communication in addition to the normal progress reports.

The location, date and financial responsibility for tool trials must be agreed well in advance of the completion of the mould and the number of samples required by the moulder or customer noted. Any capability studies, piece part inspection or pre-production trial requirements must also be formalised.

Finally, any outstanding commercial negotiations on toolmaking or piece part prices should be confirmed.

"Late changes cost time, money and frayed tempers"