How to move tools successfully

One person who knows this situation very well is Steffen Autenrieth, Managing Director of the southern German plastics technology specialist 1A Autenrieth. He regularly accompanies tool relocations - and knows why many companies still hesitate. "The technical and legal complexities often seem complicated to decision-makers," he says. "But with a clear structure, risks can be minimized and potential can even be leveraged." The following checklist shows what really matters when relocating an injection mold.

The suitability test

Before the mold makes its way to the new manufacturer, a reality check must be carried out: dimensions, weight, required clamping force, standard batch sizes and technical requirements determine whether it can be operated economically. Many modern injection molders cover a wide range of parts - from milligram parts to components weighing several kilograms. Nevertheless, the following applies: only when the machine environment and tool harmonize does a relocation make sense.

The older the tool, the more important the search for evidence: What data exists? Which process parameters were originally used? Today, complete 3D models can often be reconstructed from existing components - an advantage if drawings are missing. It is crucial that old process data can be transferred cleanly to modern systems.

Surprisingly often, the crucial question arises shortly before the move: Do all the tools actually belong to the customer? Invoices usually provide clues. Things get complicated when only inserts or partial components have been purchased. "Many only then realize that the ownership situation is unclear," reports Autenrieth. "But that in no way prevents the relocation." If documents are missing, a digital twin can help. The expert advises: "For future projects, it is essential that ownership rules are clearly recorded in writing."

Fine-tuning for new environment

Cooling connections, sensors, electrics or screw points - a tool rarely manages without modifications. Older tools in particular benefit from upgrades to modern standards, which increase component quality and often reduce unit costs.

A sampling of around 50 parts shows whether the transfer was successful. Are the dimensions, tolerances and surfaces correct? Often all it takes is a minimal adjustment - a hundredth of a millimeter correction here, an additional support there - and the rigidity increases noticeably, as does the component's service life.

Maintenance as an underestimated factor

A tool only produces as well as it is maintained. Professional tool mechanics, modern cleaning methods such as ultrasound or dry ice and a structured maintenance concept are mandatory. After all, professional maintenance not only guarantees consistent quality - it also determines the speed of response in an emergency if something goes wrong. Just as important: insurance and fire protection in the tool store.

Coordinate material and flow parameters

Temperature, pressure, material behavior - only the finely adjusted process ensures stable quality. "An incorrectly selected parameter can reject entire batches," emphasizes Autenrieth. Transparent parameter adjustments ensure that the tool runs at least as reliably at the new location as before.

Tool relocations are not routine jobs - but they are manageable. Specialists like 1A Autenrieth take over dozens of existing tools every year and integrate them into ongoing production. For companies, properly planned transfers not only open up stability in the supply chain, but often also real competitive advantages. "If done correctly, a tool relocation is not just damage limitation," says the plastics expert. "It can be a starting point for better quality and lower costs."