Mold Trial Process: What to Expect from T0 to Final Approval

The mold trial phase is critical for ensuring your production runs smoothly. Here's what to expect at each stage.

Overview of Trial Stages

T0 Trial: Initial Check

What Happens:

• First mold opening/closing
• Check all mechanical movements
• Verify cooling channels
• Basic injection test

What You Receive:

• Photos/videos of mold operation
• Initial samples (may have defects)
• Preliminary observations

Common T0 Issues:

• Flash at parting line
• Short shots
• Ejection marks
• These are normal and expected

T1 Trial: First Complete Trial

What Happens:

• Process parameter optimization
• Full production cycle test
• Dimensional measurement
• Visual quality assessment

What You Should Review:

• Dimensions: Compare to drawings
• Surface quality: Check for defects
• Structural integrity: Stress points
• Color consistency: If applicable

Sample Evaluation Checklist:

• [ ] All dimensions within tolerance
• [ ] No sink marks or voids
• [ ] Acceptable parting line witness
• [ ] Proper ejector pin marks
• [ ] Correct surface finish
• [ ] No warpage or distortion

T2 Trial: Optimization

What Happens:

• Address T1 issues
• Fine-tune process parameters
• Production speed optimization
• Cycle time verification

Common Adjustments:

• Cooling channel modifications
• Gate size adjustments
• Venting improvements
• Ejection timing changes

What to Request from Your Manufacturer

Documentation:

• Trial report with parameters
• Dimensional inspection report
• Photos of samples (multiple angles)
• Video of production cycle

Samples:

• Minimum 5-10 consecutive shots
• Samples from different cavities
• Mark cavity numbers on samples

When to Approve the Mold

Approval Criteria:

✅ All critical dimensions within spec ✅ Acceptable visual quality ✅ Cycle time meets target ✅ Consistent quality across cavities ✅ No structural concerns

Conditional Approval:

Sometimes minor issues can be accepted with:

• Documented deviation approval
• Agreement on future modification
• Price adjustment if applicable

Remote Trial Participation

If you can't attend in person:

• Request live video call during trial
• Ask for comprehensive photo documentation
• Review samples before shipping mold
• Use third-party inspection if needed

Conclusion

Don't rush the trial process. It's easier and cheaper to fix issues before shipment than after. Communicate clearly with your manufacturer about expectations and don't hesitate to request additional trials if needed.