Molding (process)

Molding is the process of manufacturing by shaping pliable raw material using a rigid frame or model called a mold.

A mold or mould is a hollowed-out block that is filled with a liquid like plastic, glass or metal. The liquid hardens or sets inside the mold, adopting its shape. A mold is the opposite of a cast (see casting). The manufacturer who makes the molds is called moldmaker or mouldmaker.

Types of molding include:

• Powder metallurgy
  • Compaction plus sintering
• Plastics
  • Injection molding
  • Compression molding
  • Transfer molding
  • Extrusion molding
  • Blow molding
  • Rotational molding
  • Thermoforming
  • Laminating
  • Expandable bead molding
  • Foam molding
  • Rotomolding
  • Vacuum plug assist molding
  • Pressure plug assist molding
  • Matched mold