The Goal of Design for Manufacturing
In the world of plastics, Design for Manufacturing (DFM) is the combination of art, science and technologies necessary for designing a plastic part or product prior to tooling and production that will meet customer quality and cost expectations. The goal of DFM is to deliver greater levels of customer satisfaction, lower production costs and greater profits.
To achieve its objectives, DFM requires collaboration between the molder, OEM and customer. It must capitalize upon best in class manufacturing processes. Its principles drive a scientific molding process that includes materials selection. It needs to acknowledge and work within and up to the maximum performance capabilities of the molder’s manufacturing equipment. It must utilize state of the art technology like simulation and enterprise resource planning software in the design process, and robotics and process control systems for manufacturing.
Plastics manufacturing is a highly competitive, global industry where businesses are presented with both time and cost challenges. Avoiding delays and reducing risks for costly design changes can mean that your product gets to market faster than your competitors.
The sharp line that was once drawn between development and production is now, oftentimes, blurred with manufacturers leaning on industry design experts to become involved in the design for manufacturability process. In fact, manufacturers rank design as the top factor in reducing their overall manufacturing costs.
Over the years, best practices for tooling and part manufacturing have changed substantially. While production checklists are still critical components of the process, the work that happens earlier in the development cycle is what creates real efficiencies in regard to time and budget. When a tool-maker / injection molder is involved early in the development cycle, customer objectives are understood and unexpected surprises are avoided.
Are you looking for an injection molding that can provide expert consultation from design to production completion? Connect with our knowledgeable team members that focus on all areas of design for manufacturability, development, and production.
