Bridge Molding Service
Bridge the gap between initial manufacturing steps and mass production | Get end-use parts and deliver your product to market quickly | Get an auto-quoted estimate for parts and tooling today
Bridge Tooling With Xometry
Xometry helps its customers grow by providing services that support product development at each process stage. A crucial stage in development is validating your design and getting to market while keeping timing and costs in mind. That is where Xometry's bridge tooling services come in.
Xometry will help you quickly bring your product to market and meet immediate demand needs. This service is a step up from our prototype molding services, so that you can expect expanded options such as higher lifetime tools, higher output, more advanced gating techniques, and more possibilities with family tooling. Our injection molding services offer a wide array of materials, finishes, and mold configurations with domestic and international production choices.
To get started, simply upload your 3D CAD file to the Xometry Instant Quoting Engine®. Most projects qualify for an auto-quoted estimate, allowing you to budget and plan your project accordingly without waiting for responses. Once you're ready, submit your request for review, and our team will work with you closely at every step!
Bridge Tooling Benefits
As the name implies, bridge tooling helps you "bridge the gap" between initial product development phases and high-volume production. For many customers, bridge tooling and molding offer a unique sweet spot that is beneficial when compared to other levels of production. Below are some of the key benefits of using this type of rapid production tooling:
- Speed to market: Use it as a stepping stone to quickly get your product into consumers' hands while production tools are being developed.
- Mold validation: Ensure your design's form, fit, and function are ready for high volume before investing in production tooling.
- Ideal for limited runs: Perfect for needs with low-mid volumes, such as trials or when product demand does not warrant a production tool.
- Less Investment: Bridge tooling will typically be more cost-effective than tools designed for mass production.
- Origin: Utilize domestic or international production to meet the needs of your project's requirements and targets.
Case Study: Thermaco Uses Xometry Injection Molding to Scale Global Product Line
When Should You Consider Bridge Tooling?
Sometimes, determining where your project sits in the manufacturing hierarchy can be challenging. When it comes to bridge tooling, you can make a few comparisons and considerations to help you figure out if it is the best solution for your needs. The table below can help you with this. Additionally, our industry experts are happy to discuss your project in more detail to help you make an informed decision!
Table: Considerations when exploring bridge tooling
| Subject | Consideration |
|---|---|
Subject Tool Life | Consideration Made of more robust materials than the ones used with prototype tooling molds, resulting in longer tool life. Additional maintenance may be required before 50,000 shots. |
Subject Mold Texturing & Polishing | Consideration Thanks to tougher tooling materials that retain finishes and details well over time, all of our mold finish offerings are suitable. |
Subject Gating Methods | Consideration In addition to edge, direct, and fan gating, bridge tools may also utilize hot-runners or hot manifold systems to meet the project requirements. |
Subject Mold Classes | Consideration Mold classes for bridge tools typically range from 104, 103, and 102 and are typically made of steel such as P20 Steel. |
Subject Material Selection | Consideration All injection molding materials we offer are available. Custom or specialty materials can also be explored upon request. |
Subject Tool Origin | Consideration Xometry offers both domestic (USA) and international molding options. International manufacturing will be the most economical. |
Ready to start a molding project?
Why Choose Xometry for Your Tooling Needs?
Endless Options
Choose from millions of possible combinations of materials, finishes, tolerances, markings, and certifications for your order.
Expert Help
Our experts help get your parts delivered right to your door without the hassle of sourcing, project management, logistics, or shipping.
Vetted Network
We are ISO 9001:2015, ISO 13485, IATF 16949, and AS9100D certified. Only the top shops that apply to become suppliers pass our qualification process.
Instant Pricing and Lead Time Estimates
Streamline your budgeting and procurement process with the Xometry Instant Quoting Engine®. Upload your 3D CAD files to receive an auto-quoted estimate for pricing and lead times, allowing you to plan your project without the typical delays of waiting for a manual quote. This powerful tool saves you valuable time by providing the information you need up front. When you’re ready to move forward, our team of experts will thoroughly review your project to confirm and finalize your quote and provide consultation to ensure your project is set up for success.
Injection Molding FAQ
What industries use injection molding?
Injection molding has applications across various industries, including aerospace, medical devices, consumer goods, energy, electronics, automotive, robotics, toys, and more.
What are lead times like with bridge tooling?
Xometry can deliver injection molded components using bridge tooling in 3-5 weeks. Our experts and project managers will work with you to develop a more detailed timeline.
What materials are available?
All of our usual injection molding material offerings are available! We can also pursue using custom materials upon request. Read more about choosing the proper injection molded plastic.
What are mold classes?
The SPI (Society of Plastic Engineers) developed mold classifications to standardize definitions based on mold material, tool design, features, and production volume. Mold classes range from 101 (most advanced, highest volume production) to 105 (prototyping applications) to simplify the type of injection mold required for thermoplastic molding based on production needs.
What is MUD tooling?
A MUD (Master Unit Die) is a type of mold that uses a standard injection molding frame that utilizes inserts that define the shape of the internal cavity and thus the eventual part. Think of it as a quick-change system akin to swapping out the head of a disposable razor. Ultimately this type of tool helps drive lower-cost and first article lead times. MUD tooling focuses machining time on the core and cavity work rather than all other aspects of a more complicated tooling setup. MUD tooling is regularly associated with bridge or prototype tooling. Learn more about injection molding tooling and processes.
Who owns the tool?
At Xometry, our customers own their injection mold tools! After a run is complete, the tool will remain at our facilities. Tools can be shipped to you upon request; however, you will be responsible for any associated shipping and packaging costs. Our engineers will work with you regarding tool compatibility with your equipment if you're unsure.
What if I need to make small changes to my part after ordering?
We do our best to accommodate our customers. Change requests will require tool modifications which will impact cost. The exact cost of change requests will be calculated after T1 samples have been completed.
What is the process after ordering?
After receiving the order, the statement of work is reviewed by one of our manufacturing engineers. A case manager is assigned, and an appropriate manufacturing supplier is identified. A comprehensive DFM/PEG report is created and provided for approval. Upon approval, tooling and mold production is commenced. T1 samples are produced and shipped for approval. Upon approval, the remaining parts are made.
