HSC (High Speed Cutting) technology is used at 1zu1 to produce prototypes – primarily, aluminum tools for the production of small series in original materials. State-of-the-art 5-axis milling technology guarantees maximum precision for our mold inserts. This enables us to produce highly accurate components from the injection molds. Our tool-mold inserts are machined using state-of-the-art machine tools. The optimum maximum article size is 250 x 150 x 100 mm. For larger components please contact us (our capacities are constantly changing).

Technically precise

This process has many advantages. Almost all series materials can be used for production, and the conditions for injection molding largely correspond to those for series tools. One minor difference to the production of a steel mold is the different cooling behavior of the plastics in aluminum. Fast throughput times are also possible, even with runs of several thousand pieces. The resulting injection-molded parts impress thanks to their outstanding technical precision.

Aluminum or steel?

Normally, mold inserts are made from high-strength aluminum. The advantages of using aluminum is obvious – aluminum tools are not only more cost-effective for plastic injection molding, but also enable precise mold geometries as well as rapid availability. We only use steel inserts if the desired output quantity or the selected plastic prevents the use of aluminum.

The cost savings compared to simple series injection molds made of steel are between 40 and 70 percent (European comparison). The injection-molded parts are supplied to the customer. The forming parts remain at 1zu1 Prototypes and are reinstalled into the existing master molds if additional parts are required.

As a Rapid Protoyping service provider, we can respond quickly to your inquiries. Our short lead times and ability to think and work in small quantities enable us to provide solutions that series manufacturers typically do not want to – or cannot – offer.

Aluminum tools are not only more cost-effective for plastic injection molding, but also enable precise mold geometries as well as rapid availability.
Tool mold insert in high strength aluminum
The result: an injection-molded part in original material
Relentless – our tool production can also run “unmanned” around the clock.
In control – CNC-controlled 5-axis milling machines.

We specialize in the following product groups:

  • Connector housings
  • Multi-component parts
  • Sheaths and the use of inserts
  • Closing caps
  • Covers
  • Small-series and prototype components for which ISO 8 cleanroom production is required 
  • and much more