Conformal Cooling Mold Case | Cycle Time Reduction

Conformal Cooling Mold Reduces Injection Cycle 40%

SLM 3D printed MS1 tool steel conformal cooling insert reduced cycle from 18s to 11s, warpage defect rate from 8% to 1%.

Published by lantu3D Engineering & Content Team 2026-07-21 Updated 2026-07-26

Background

An injection molding factory produced thin-wall PP housings with traditional straight cooling channels causing uneven cooling, warpage, and 18s/cycle.

Solution

SLM 3D printed MS1 tool steel conformal cooling insert
Cooling channels follow cavity contour
Channel diameter 3-6mm, conformal curves
Insert surface finished to Ra 0.4μm

Results

Cycle time: 18s → 11s (40% reduction)
Part warpage: decreased 60%
Mold temperature uniformity: ±3°C (was ±15°C)
Annual capacity increase: ~400,000 pieces

Similar Project Quote Advice

Reference material

Resin, nylon, PLA/PETG, engineering plastics or metal selected by use case

Reference process

SLA / SLS / FDM / MJF / CNC combinations reviewed as needed

Quote focus

Size, quantity, tolerance, assembly, surface, finishing and delivery schedule

Recommended inputs

3D model, 2D drawing, product photo, physical sample or use-case notes

Finishing advice

Sanding, painting, dyeing, inserts, assembly or inspection based on actual use

Next Step Is this close to what you need?

Submit a model, drawing, image or written notes. Engineers will review material, process, finishing and delivery based on actual use.

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