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Mold Tryout Checklist — Complete Guide for Buyers

Mold tryout (T0/T1/T2) is the most critical milestone in any mold project. A systematic tryout process separates successful projects from those plagued by endless iterations.

Before Tryout

Material confirmed: exact grade, supplier, lot number
Material dried per spec (verify dryer temp and time)
Cooling lines tested for flow rate (L/min per circuit)
Mold dimensions vs. design verified
Machine selected: tonnage, screw, nozzle compatible
FAI report template prepared
Critical dimensions marked on drawing

T0 — Verify Mold Function

Mold Function Checks

Open/close: Smooth, no binding
Ejector system: All pins move freely
Sliders/lifters: Full travel, no interference
Cooling: Flow verified on all circuits
Hot runner: Tip temp ±5°C zone to zone
Ventilation: No burn marks

First Shot

Short shot at 50% pressure, increment
Full fill: Note pressure and speed
Ejection: All cavities cleanly
Visual: No flow marks, jetting, silver streaks

Buyer's Tip: Insist on conservative start parameters and recording every setting. Parameters at T0 become the baseline for all future sampling. Request video of mold opening/ejection — it reveals binding issues photos cannot capture.

T1 — Dimensional & Cosmetic

Measure all critical dimensions against CAD
Check shrinkage vs. expected
Check mating surfaces and assembly fit
Surface finish matches SPI grade
No sink marks on visible surfaces
Gate vestige within limit
Weld lines acceptable

T2 — Production Readiness

Run 50-100 consecutive shots
Measure every 10th for stability
CPK > 1.33 on critical dimensions
Cycle time within 10% of target
Scrap rate < 3%
Mold temp stable ±3°C over 1 hour
Documentation: FAI, process sheet, maintenance guide

What This Means for Your Project: A three-stage tryout requires 2-5 days for medium-complexity molds. Budget 2-3 tryout rounds. Chinese mold makers often quote 'one tryout included; additional ¥3,000-8,000.' Insist on a written tryout plan before the mold leaves the factory. For multi-cavity molds, verify all cavities produce identical parts.

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