The future of tooling

The digital part of toolmaking is playing an increasingly important role in the production process (figure 22 ).

CAD/CAM processes are already complete: from the 3D realization of the finished part, to obtaining the machining program on the NC, everything is virtual today.

Advances in rapid prototyping will lead to a new evolution in tooling, at least as far as prototypes are concerned initially. In fact, manufacturers have developed machines that enable rapid prototyping of mold elements directly from a CAD file. All you need to do is digitize the desired mold element (core or cavity, or finished part).

The machine then deposits a 280 μm thick stratum of sand (the thickness of 2 grains of sand), followed by a hardener on the...