Prototype molds are initial molds made in the pre-production phase of a product. Prototype molds manufacturers use the same process to make the production mold as they do to make the actual products. When working with prototype molds manufacturers, it's important to find a company that can make good industrial prototype molds efficiently.

Manufacturers can make prototype molds from a variety of materials, generally plastics and metals, and can range from simple to complex shapes. Since it's important to have your prototype molds made quickly and to save as much money as possible, it's a good idea to find prototype molds distributors who can work with your business to figure out what your needs are. The right kind of experience helps save you time and money.

1. You can find a manufacturer of prototype molds that specializes in the prototyping process rather than a particular kind of prototype.

2. You can find a prototype molds manufacturer who specializes in a particular material, such as plastic, aluminum or stainless steel.

3. You can find a distributor of prototype molds that does a specific kind of prototyping, such as prototype injection molding or rapid prototyping molds.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Work with a prototype molds expert

Some mold prototyping companies take a generalist approach to prototypes and make prototyping itself their specialty. You may decide you want to work with a company with expertise in prototyping a variety of materials because they know how to take a concept and efficiently create a product.

I recommend: Prototype Cast, a prototyping manufacturing company, uses a variety of processes and materials. Steinkamp Molding specializes in custom prototypes for a variety of materials and industries.

Find a prototype molds manufacturer that works with materials you use

You might need a prototype expert in the material you use in your shop's production. If so, many prototyping companies work with particular metals, plastics, composites or other materials to offer the best prototype solutions for your design.

I recommend: Marathon Mold specializes in aluminum and steel mold prototyping to test initial concepts and designs, and it can also take you through the entire molding process. Estee Mold and Die works with rubber, composites and plastics.

Use a specific type of prototype molding process

If your product requires a particular kind of industrial prototype mold, you will want to choose your prototype molds manufacturer accordingly. Some companies specialize in certain types of molding, including various rapid prototyping processes.

I recommend: Scimitar specializes in rapid prototyping molds, using urethane castings for maximum efficiency. If you need a company that works with prototype injection molding, check out Straton Industries. It transfers molds and compression molds.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Make sure the prototype mold company you work with maintains an ISO certification from the past six months, and see if it has any other quality control certifications.