How to Design Silicone Products for Mass Production

Walk into any silicone factory these days and you will notice something has changed. The old way of doing things simply does not cut it anymore. How to Design Silicone Products for Mass Production has become a topic that comes up in nearly every sourcing conversation we have.

CNC and EDM are both used in mold making, and they do different jobs. CNC is faster for large, flat surfaces. EDM is needed for sharp internal corners and details that a cutting tool cannot reach. A good mold shop uses both, not just one.

Surface texture on a mold transfers directly to the product. A polished mold gives a glossy finish. A spark-eroded surface gives a matte texture. Clients often ask for a specific feel without realizing it all starts with the mold surface treatment. We provide sample chips so you can feel the difference before committing.

Draft angles exist for a reason. Silicone is flexible, so you can get away with less draft than with plastic, but zero draft will still cause tearing and stretching during demolding. We recommend at least 1 degree per side, more for deep parts.

Every brand we work with had a first order, and most of them made mistakes on it. The ones that succeed are the ones who learn from those mistakes and build better processes. Lemeng Silicone is here to help you skip some of the more expensive lessons. Get in touch when you are ready.