Diversified Plastics, Inc. (DPI) has transferred hundreds of tools over the years. Based on this experience, DPI has developed the transfer tool program to shorten the time to production while also obtaining parts of the highest quality possible.

DPI’s Transfer Tool Program provides a full review of each tool upon receipt. It incorporates a complete cleaning of the transferred tool and allowance for basic modifications. The activities below are included for each tool transferred.

  • Establish a transfer tool team that includes a project lead and individuals from engineering, tooling, production, quality and customer service.
  • Communication throughout the process, including a kickoff meeting to review the entire project and schedule the required steps.
  • A thorough review of all key mold components, including a 30-point review of every tool.
    • Mold base, cavity and core
    • Surface finish
    • Runners
    • Gate(s)
    • Ejection system
    • Temperature control system
    • Special features
  • A report generated for customer summarizing findings and assessment of meeting production and quality standards in addition to any work to the tool, if needed.
  • Once all work is done to the tool and it is ready to sample, samples and a first-article inspection report (FAIR) are prepared and submitted for customer approval. (Note: DPI provides the first $100 of resin for sampling. Resin usage beyond $100 will be quoted. The customer will also receive a quote for the FAIR.)
  • DPI allocates an investment of time and materials with each transfer tool. Our standard program includes 10 hours of review, inspection and basic modifications, including materials. This represents a value of over $1,000 per tool.

When DPI identifies issues with a tool and recommends work be done, it will be quoted at a discount from our standard engineering and tool shop rates. A quote will be provided before any additional work is done on the tool.

Our experience has shown that tool transfers happen faster, and potentially at reduced cost, when the following information is provided:

  • Part specification (3D CAD files, blueprints, material selection, part  eight and color standards)
  • Molding process sheets
  • Past approved first-article inspection reports
  • Fixtures needed for assembly, printing and testing
  • CAD of the mold design with specifications, including tool type, steel specifications, design, size and description of the tool
  • At least three to 10 shots made with the current tool
    • If current shots do not meet quality requirements, issues are to be detailed and sample parts that meet standards will be provided
    • Sample parts displaying quality issues are also needed

Contact your DPI sales engineer to discuss your transfer tool requirements and learn how our Transfer Tooling Program can support your needs.