DFM Report Before Injection Mold Making

A DFM Report (Design for Manufacturability Report) is a technical evaluation document created during the early stages of a mold project. It assesses whether a part design is suitable for injection molding, and recommends changes that will improve manufacturability, reduce cost, and prevent production issues.

This report bridges the communication between the part designer, mold maker, and molder, ensuring the part can be produced efficiently and with high quality.

Purpose of a DFM Report

• Identify design flaws that could affect molding or tool building.

• Recommend geometry improvements for better moldability.

• Confirm feasibility of mold design and layout.

• Reduce tooling risks, rework, and production delays.

• Improve part quality, reduce cycle time, and minimize scrap rate.

What’s Included in a Typical DFM Report?

Here’s a breakdown of the main sections:

1. Part Overview

• Basic details: part name, material, size, weight, 3D model reference

• Part function or application

• Visual reference of the 3D model

2. Parting Line & Mold Opening Direction

• Suggested mold opening direction (Z-axis)

• Recommended parting line for split between core and cavity

• Notes on undercuts or features that complicate ejection

3. Draft Angle Analysis

• Checks if vertical walls have enough draft (typically ≥ 1–2°)

• Suggests draft where missing to aid smooth ejection

4. Wall Thickness Evaluation

• Checks for consistent wall thickness

• Flags thick or thin areas that could cause sink marks or short shots

• Suggests ribbing or coring for weight reduction and uniform cooling

5. Rib and Boss Analysis

• Verifies proper rib-to-wall ratios (e.g., 0.5–0.6× wall thickness)

• Checks spacing and fillets around ribs and bosses

• Prevents sink marks, voids, and filling issues

6. Undercuts and Side Actions

• Identifies features requiring sliders, lifters, or inserts

• Suggests redesign if undercuts are not necessary

7. Gate Location Suggestions

• Proposes optimal gate location(s) based on fill balance

• Notes any cosmetic or functional restrictions

• Considers weld line and air trap positions

8. Ejection & Venting

• Suggests ejection pin locations

• Ensures venting areas for proper air escape

9. Material Flow and Fillability

• Basic flow analysis preview (if available)

• Comments on long flow lengths or filling challenges

10. Cooling Feasibility

• Review of thick areas or features that may cool unevenly

• Notes potential for hot spots or warpage

Benefits of a DFM Report

• Reduces tooling revisions by catching issues early

• Saves cost on tooling and production trials

• Accelerates project timeline by aligning expectations

• Ensures higher part quality and stable mass production

• Facilitates smooth communication between the customer and mold maker

When is a DFM Report Prepared?

• After receiving the 3D part model from the customer

• Before mold design begins

• Often presented as a first step in the mold quotation or design approval process

Example Use Case (SWY MOULD style):

At SWY MOULD, we provide a full DFM report within 1–3 working days after receiving your 3D part files. Our team evaluates parting lines, draft, wall thickness, undercuts, and gate locations to ensure the best mold design and manufacturability. This step is essential to avoid costly changes later and helps deliver a perfect mold, right from the first trial.

Welcome to contact Shine for more information (Email: shine@swymould.com or phone: +86 15757668880).