Injection Molding Spec sheets

[wizer2000]

I build alot of injection molds in Asia, and one problem I run into is that the tool maker rushes to send me parts off of the tool (that I approved the tool design to) before some things are complete. I am sure this is for payment.
For example, the first samples from my last project the tool was ran without water lines being hooked up and a very long cycle. I have requested a video of these samples which has helped to some degree.
What I would like to know is, is there anyone that has made a tool approval spec sheet?
This would have things like cycle time and ejection methods, maybe steel temp after so long of a run, things of that nature.
I do travel to Asia freequently but I feel for the times I cant I need to make these tool shops accountable.

 

[Pud]

I'm afraid this is one of the drawbacks of having tools made a long way from where you are.

The real solution is to have your tools made locally. Or spend a lot of time attending tool trials in person.

What is the point of a tool trial sheet - anyone can put anything on it!

Is it really cheaper having tools made far away? Not in my experience after all the costs are added up.

I assume you are in the USA?

Motto: Trust no one - especially Asian toolmakers!

Cheers

Harry (Been there, done that)

http://www.tynevalleyplastics.co.uk

 

[NomLaser]

Been there and done that as well. Well not injected parts but fairly precise machined components +/-0.000X" tolerance range. Sheets were faked and bearing locking compound was used to seat the bearing on the shaft. Pretty bad when runout on a shaft was around 0.040". Inspect, inspect and inspect some more and keep records and photos of every defect. They would do it on their end and charge you for it if you were supplying them with bad parts.

 

[patprimmer]

I have had close association with a number of projects with tools made in China. Results have been variable, from excellent moulds at half local price to moulds that just did not work. One project the off tool samples to prove the mould were done in the wrong material. The spec was PC/ABS but the proof was easy flow ABS. This was not realised until the mould was delivered and paid for and the specified material could not fill the mould and the sample was then looked at more closely.

It depends on who you deal with wherever you are, but this is more critical with distance. Aus is closer to China than are most others here.

Regards
Pat
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[wizer2000]

Please understand we have great success with overseas tooling. my collegue and I have built over 200 molds this year, and we make trip often. In the times we cannot be there we get videos of the samplings. Our success is also in our tool design reviews. If you are diligent and very strict and dictate to them what you want you will get what you want. ISO is also wanting documentation of this.
Thanks for all of your input.