Composites Molds/Tools
Composite parts are typically formed in molds, also known as tools (see ÂÌñÏ×ÆÞ’s introduction to fabrication methods for a primer on manufacturing methods). Tools can be made from virtually any material. For parts that will be produced in low quantities and can be cured at ambient or low temperature, or for prototype parts, where tight control of dimensional accuracy isn’t of prime importance, materials such as fiberglass, high-density foams, machinable epoxy boards or even clay or wood/plaster molds often are suitable.

Latest Molds/Tools Articles
VIEW ALLTechmer PM HiFill GF-PET material system bridges low, high-temp tooling gap
GF-PET compound delivers dimensional accuracy, thermal stability and accessible shape compensation data for high-performance 3D printed tooling applications.
Read MoreScalable automation technologies drive composites efficiency, consistency
CAMX 2025: Learn how Magnum Venus Products’ equipment portfolio is evolving, with a focus on MVP Motion line, INV3, IPD, Nitrotherm spray and Flex Molding technologies.
Read MoreDLR study considers cast PA6 molds for in situ AFP composites
3D printed thermoplastic mold was analyzed as alternative to expensive, time-consuming metallic molds and for suitability in aerospace-grade composite structure fabrication.
Read MorePrepreg innovations commit to cost, energy consumption reduction
CAMX 2025: PRF Materials is highlighting Reepreg, its novel Q.tool recycled innovation and will be providing updates on its Product Development and Innovation Centre.
Read MoreLayup molds, vacuum fixtures address aerospace tooling trends
CAMX 2025: Technical Tooling is integrating advanced materials, digital process compatibilities and automation into its low-CTE Ravin layup molds and Vacu-Grip fixture offerings to meet evolving needs.
Read MoreMokon becomes U.S. distributor for orcinus temperature, flow manifolds
Mokon will manufacture the enesty GmbH brand’s orca and smartshark touch-free temperature and flow manifold devices, for use with select water systems, at its facility in Buffalo, New York.
Read MoreLatest Molds/Tools News And Updates
Italian craftsmanship shapes RIM, RTM expertise
CAMX 2025: Lanulfi Moulds, serving a diversified portfolio, is available to discuss and demonstrate how its custom RIM/RTM molds can elevate performance, shorten cycle times and reduce overall production costs.
Read MoreLow-temp demold BMI prepreg enables low-cost master molds
CAMX 2025: Kaneka Aerospace 250°F BMI prepreg tooling, developed in collaboration with Janicki Industries, elevates composite tooling capabilities.
Read MoreHybrid mold release agent offers paste wax simplicity with semipermanent performance
CAMX 2025: Chem-Trend’s 2775W represents a solution for composites manufacturers who want high performance without the operational changes required by solvent technologies.
Read MoreEco-friendly precision tooling offers flexibility, consistency
CAMX 2025: For more than 50 years, Coastal Enterprises has supported design, prototyping and composite layup applications with its Precision Board urethane tooling board and custom bonding offerings.
Read MoreMoore Brothers Co. acquires Symmetrix Bristol in Rhode Island
Merging of the two teams, which includes the acquisition of Symmetrix’s composite tooling assets and a move to its flagship facility, will establish wide-ranging and complementary skills.
Read MoreLFAM specialization caters to 3D printed composite tooling, molds
CAMX 2025: AES is committed to driving technological advancement and application development in 3D printing, distinguishing its diverse capabilities through several tooling examples.
Read MoreFeatured Posts
Laser cleaning in composites manufacturing
Laser cleaning technologies for cleaning production molds for composites offer alternatives to harsher, less-friendly methods with features like automation and higher power cleaning.
Read MoreVIDEO: Enhancing composite tooling with additive manufacturing
At JEC World 2025, CW editor-in-chief Scott Francis explored the latest advancements in composite tooling with Massivit and Sika.
WatchModular, curved racing track design enabled by composites and adaptive molds
X-Track worked with bespline to develop an easy-to-install, reusable, customizable composite sandwich panel alternative to dirt BMX and motorcross tracks.
Read MoreBladder-assisted compression molding derivative produces complex, autoclave-quality automotive parts
HP Composites’ AirPower technology enables high-rate CFRP roof production with 50% energy savings for the Maserati MC20.
Read MoreCorebon induction heating
This sidebar to CW’s August 2024 feature article reviews this technology for more efficient composites manufacturing and why it aligns with Koridion active core molding.
WatchOptimized rib-reinforced hollow composites via printed molds
Addyx topology optimization and water-soluble mandrel enables simultaneous rib and skin layup for one-shot, high-strength, lightweight structures.
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