As part of our Toolmakers Series, we talked to one of our Injection Mould Tool Designers about their journey.
Read on to learn more about their experience.
The Job Description
Injection Mould Tool Designers are experts in designing manufacturing solutions. Their extensive knowledge of engineering principles, high attention to detail and ability to work closely with the customer to determine their needs and requirements mean they are a fundamental member of the Adept in-house team.
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❓ So what does an Injection Mould Tool Designer do? Tell us in a few words.
✅ AARON:
A tool designer’s main role is to take a product design for a plastic part and design the injection mould around it, creating 3D CAD models for tool manufacture.
This involves figuring out the movements required within the mould to create the various shapes of the moulded product so that it can run effectively in a production environment.
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❓ What did you do before you were an Injection Mould Tool Designer, and what led you to this role?
✅ AARON:
After completing my apprenticeship, I worked as an engineer at a plastics manufacturing company. Part of this role involved working with the tool designer to create 3D CAD models for new products, as well as providing solutions for improving existing product and tooling. Working with toolmakers during this time was my introduction to the toolmaking industry.
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❓ What was a core experience/interest that helped you succeed at this role?
✅ AARON:
I’ve always been interested in drafting and design. I headed down the engineering path in my tertiary studies, completing a NZCE Mechanical and Diploma in Mechanical Engineering at AUT. During this time I took part in several projects at a plastics manufacturer, some with 3D modelling, so I guess that’s what got me thinking about a career in the industry. After gaining my diploma I signed up for an apprenticeship in Plastics Processing Technology.
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❓ What does a normal day look like for you?
✅ AARON:
A normal day for me is filled with problem solving, communicating answers and ideas through 3D design.
Each product comes with certain design constraints and criteria, requiring solutions that are practical, reliable, cost effective… and achievable within budget!
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❓ Any advice for people who want to get into Injection Mould Tool Design as a career?
✅ AARON:
You definitely need to be technically minded and have good problem-solving skills. My advice would be to gain the technical knowledge through some sort of engineering studies but also the hands-on experience through actually working in the plastics and toolmaking industry. A background in the plastics industry and a good understanding of toolmaking is essential, so working for a company that can provide opportunities to develop this and refine your skills is really important.
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For more information on Injection Mould Tool Design as a career, talk to your local tertiary provider.