Maybe you are about to start your die-casting part business. Or perhaps you are looking for a suitable supplier for your die casting parts. Either way, the challenging step is to assess the cost of the die casting manufacturing process. If you are looking for suppliers in China, understanding the China die casting mold cost is essential.

Many companies choose China for mold production. The primary reasons for selecting Chinese suppliers are price, quality, and delivery time. China offers the best shipping quality, along with the cheapest solution for quality parts. These two parameters are vital for businesses, especially for metal or metal parts businesses. When the demands come, delivering quickly becomes the key to a successful order.

China die casting mold cost can vary widely. It depends on product type and your production needs. A simple mold for small aluminum parts may cost a few thousand dollars. On the other hand, a complex multi-cavity mold can cost tens of thousands.

If you aim for mass production, these costs directly affect your profit margins and your pricing to your customers. That’s why a clear understanding of how mold cost is calculated is so essential. This article mainly talks about the China Die Casting Mold Cost.

Understanding Die Casting

Simply saying, die casting is one of the most common methods of making metal parts. It involves forcing molten metal into a mold cavity. This work is done under high pressure. Here, the pressure plays a prominent role in filling the cavity appropriately, which results in the exact shape.

En molde de fundición a presión manufacturing process uses two hardened steel pieces. These pieces are called dies. However, the entire die casting process is quite similar to the plastic injection process.

The die casting process begins by preparing the dies. After preparing, it is necessary to apply the die casting mold release agent. It helps in the smooth release of the die-cast part. You give it some time to dry. Once done, it’s time to inject the molten metal.

With high pressure, molten metals are injected into the die. The high pressure ensures that the molten metal reaches every corner of the mold. Once the metal is solid, the dies open up. The ejector pins then push the metal out of the mold. These pins are also an essential part of the die casting process.

Any residual material, such as flashes or excess parts, is removed after final trimming. This way, it results in a perfect metal shape component.

How Much Does Die Casting Cost?

In the die casting manufacturing process, there are two key phases that you should take into account. The first is making the mold, and the second is making the parts. Many customers only ask for the mold and ship it to their production facility. From their factory, they produce die-casting parts for their customers. On the other hand, many customers also ask for in-house production for both mold and part production.

Therefore, when you assess the China die casting mold cost, two cost types: Die casting die cost and die casting per part cost.

The die cost depends on mold size, cavity number, and steel types. The mold complexity also matters here. For small parts, a simple mold may cost around 3,000 USD to 8,000 USD. For larger or multi-cavity molds, the price can reach 20,000 USD to 50,000 USD or even more. At Aludiecast, we never had any hidden costs. We always try to give our customers the best price for their project.

The per-part cost includes materials, machine time, labor, finishing, and testing. It can range from $0.5 to $5 per piece. The exact cost may depend on metal type and production volume. The higher the quantity, the lower the average price.

Factors Affecting the Die Cast Cost

The die cast cost has two branches: die cast mold cost and die casting parts cost. Various factors drive both costs. To optimize the total price, you must carefully assess these factors and find the best solution.

Volumen de producción

Production volume highly affects the die casting costs. Higher production significantly lowers the cost per part unit. The initial cost and dies are spread all over the pieces. On the other hand, if you are doing a small-scale production, it costs you more per single part. So, the die casting is economical and well profitable if you are making parts in large quantities. This is a core concept called economies of scale.

Part Complexity and Design

To produce a complex part, you must require more intricate design molds. There are some features, like undercut or tight tolerances, that increase the tool complexity. The more complex the parts are, the more it costs you extra. This complexity also slows down the production cycle. In contrast, simple design parts are easy and relatively faster to produce.

Die Casting Tooling Cost

The tooling cost is a significant upfront investment. It includes designs and the machining of the steel dies. In terms of complex, high-quality, steel parts and multi-cavity molds, this cost increases. However, investing in a strong, well-designed tool remains beneficial in the long run. They are relatively durable and last for many cycles of production.

Metal Material

The choice of metals also affects the production cost. There are some standard alloys like aluminio, zincy magnesium used in die casting. These material costs depend on the market demand, price, and the density (weight per part) of the material. Moreover, if you use high-melting metals, they also require expensive and high-energy for use. So, select metals according to your budget and requirements.

Processing & Finishing

There are some post-processing steps, such as trimming, machining, polishing, or coating, that improve surface quality. High-quality finishes require more time and materials. So, choose the necessary post-work steps based on your budget and performance.

Labor

Labor costs involve running, setting up, and maintaining machines. For precise casting and mold making, you need skilled workers. Skilled workers and longer working hours need higher wages. But in automation, it saves time but requires investment. Proper training and efficient workflow help save time. Also, adequate labor management ensures quality and controls cost.

Other Associated Costs

Other associated costs are indirect but necessary for operation. It can be energy consumption for melting metal and running it. Also, maintenance and repair of dies are expensive. Scrap rate, which indicates the rate of wasted materials. These charges can significantly raise the overall cost.

How to Calculate the Die Casting Mold Cost

Calculating the China die casting mold cost requires understanding every step of the process. Each stage adds value and price. You have to think from design to manufacturing and testing. A slight change in design or steel type will alter the whole production process. The total mold cost is not just about making the mold; it also includes ensuring quality.

To get the best value, you must consider all related expenses together. Below are the main factors that influence the cost of a die casting mold in China. Note that the following information is for reference only. It may change based on your situation and the type of projects.

Mold Design Fee

Mold design is one of the earliest and most critical stages of the die-casting mold manufacturing process. Indeed, a well-designed mold ensures smooth material flow. It also provides better cooling and longer mold life.

The mold design cost in China typically accounts for 2% of the total cost for large molds. On the other hand, it costs around 2.5% to 3% for smaller molds. For example, if your mold cost is 50,000 USD, the design cost will be around 1,000-1,500 USD.

A Good design not only affects the initial price but also reduces future repair and upkeep costs. This way, you can make a wise long-term investment.

Manufacturing Cost

Once the design is ready, the mold undergoes manufacturing. It may include CNC machining, EDM (Electrical Discharge Machining), heat treatment, and so on.

Generally, the processing cost should not exceed 20% of the total cost of the China die-casting mold. This amount mainly covers:

1. Machining of cavities and cores
2. Surface finishing and fitting
3. Heat treatment for harness
4. Assembly and testing

If you need high-precision molds in such cases, the cost may go slightly higher. The reason is the use of various advanced machinery, which can ensure tighter tolerances.

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Quality Control and Inspection Fees

Every die casting must be inspected before mass production. In China, the inspection fee is typically 1-2% of the total cost. These constants cover the use of the various quality control devices. The goal is to ensure that the mold meets dimensional accuracy and performance needs. Although it seems small, proper checking or testing saves significant costs later by preventing defects.

After-sales Expenses and Taxes

After-sales support, maintenance, and taxes are also part of the China die casting mold cost. It typically ranges from 1% to 1.5% of the mold trial fee for molds under 800T. For more than 800T, this cost may reach up to 2%. These costs typically include mold trial adjustments, performance tuning, and warranty-related services.

The after-sales costs also reflect the stability and professionalism of the mold supplier. Chinese manufacturers, like Aludiecast, often include these as part of their standard quotation.

Note that the figures shown above are only estimates based on average market data. The actual China die casting mold cost may vary depending on several factors. As mentioned, these factors include mold size, material grade, surface finish, and production quality.

Complex designs or tighter tolerances typically need more die casting tooling cost. On the other hand, large-volume production and efficient design can help you reduce other expenses. Therefore, it is always wise to consult your supplier for a detailed quotation before starting your project.

How to Calculate the Cost of Your Die-Cast Part

Understanding China Die Casting Mold Cost and How to Calculate it

When you plan to make die-casting parts, one of the first questions that comes to mind is: How much does a die-casting mold cost? The price of a die casting mold can vary. Part size, material, tonnage, design complexity, and tooling needs mainly affect it.

The die-casting mold manufacturing process typically involves several steps. First, you design the mold, and then you machine it. Once the assembly parts are ready, assemble the mold. There are also polishing and testing processes. Each of these steps affects the total mold price. In China, the cost advantage usually comes from efficient processing. We have well-developed supplier chains and skilled technicians.

However, the final die casting tooling cost still depends on various factors:

• The type of steel used for the mold
• Mold size and number of cavities
• Required precision and surface finish
• Die casting machine tonnage
• Mold design and testing frequency
• Expected mold life cycle

Material Cost

Material cost is the first and the foundation of the total price. The mold base and cavities are usually made of 45#, 50#, or 55# steel. In China, these materials typically cost around 2USD/kg.

To calculate the material cost, we can use the formula:

Material Cost = (Product Weight × Unit Price) / (1- Loss Rate)

For example, for a 1kg die casting, the calculation looks like this:

• Material Unit Price = 2 USD/kg
• Material loss = 8-10%

So, (1 kg x 2 USD) / (1 to 0.08 or 0.1) = 2.17 ~ 2.22 USD

That means the raw material cost of a 1kg die-cast part is around 4.3 USD. When you estimate the cost of a China die-casting mold, this value serves as the base cost. After this, there are other subsequent calculations.

Die Casting Machine Cost

Another key component of die casting tooling costs is machine operating expenses. In general, a die casting machine may cost around 50,000 USD. Usually, they have a service life of 5 years. If we break down this cost, the daily cost becomes:

50,000 / 5 / 365 = 27 USD per day

Now, if you produce 1000 parts per day, this translates to 0.027 USD per unit in machine cost. The daily production volume mainly depends on machine tonnage, part size, and cycle time. A larger machine can handle bigger molds. They can produce heavier parts. However, they may not offer you shorter cycle times. On the other hand, shorter machines are faster but limited in capacity.

Choosing the right machine tonnage is also critical in die casting. The size and weight of the part determine the required machine tonnage. According to market size, the cost of machines can be summarized as follows:

Note that, for 1 KG of die casting parts, you may need to choose a die casting machine from 500 tons to 600 tons. If you do so, your die casting machine cost will be around 1 USK per kg of parts.

Labor Cost and Post-Processing Cost

Even with automation, labor cost remains a part of total expenses. You must carefully assess this part as well. In most Chinese die-casting factories, labor cost for die-casting blanks is usually around 1.5% of the total cost of the part. Let’s understand more about the China die casting mold cost.

Material Cost (2.2USD) + Machine Cost (1 USD) = 3.2 USD

Labor Cost = 3.2 x 1.5% = 0.048 USD

So, the total cost of 1kg of die casting blank = 2.2 (Material) + 1 (Machine) + 0.048 (labor cost) = 3.248 USD. Note that this cost may include various post-processing works. Common post-processing steps include trimming, polishing, and surface finishing. The exact type of the process typically depends on the part complexity.

Low-Cost Alternatives to Die Casting

Die casting offers high precision and strength, but it is not always the cheapest option for every project. When the die casting mold cost seems too high, you can still consider some low-cost alternatives. These methods may suit small production runs or simple part designs.

One alternative is sanding. It typically uses sand molds instead of metal ones. The mold cost is low, but the surface finish and accuracy are not as good as die casting. IT is ideal for large parts and short runs.

Another option is gravity casting or permanent mold casting. This process uses reusable molds, but without high pressure. It gives better quality than sand casting and costs less than high-pressure die casting.

You can also consider investment casting. It is ideal for small and complex parts. It also offers good precision. However, this process is slower and not suitable for very large parts and short runs.

For plastic parts, you might consider injection molding. It is ideal for lightweight needs and can replace metal casting. It also provides fast production and smooth surfaces.

Choosing the correct method typically depends on material, production volume, and product use. When you compare them, you can find the most cost-effective solutions. At the same time, you can also manage the China die casting mold cost efficiently.

How to Optimize China Die Casting Mold Cost

There is still room for optimizing the whole China die casting mold cost. Even after design and production, you must do careful planning to reduce the expense. You must know the consequences when you optimize one factor to reduce the cost. Note that small changes in part structure or material use can make a big difference in overall cost.

Lower cost means faster return and better market competitiveness. It also helps you extend mold life and improve production efficiency. Many mold manufacturers typically overlook these minor adjustments. Later, it leads to higher maintenance or repair costs. When you focus on smart design and efficient production strategies, you can achieve better quality. At the same time, you can keep the total cost under control.

Design for Manufacturability

Simplify the design to avoid complexity. Also, you can prevent unnecessary cuts and sharp corners in the design. To simplify it, use simple geometry and uniform wall thickness. Ensure proper draft angles for easy ejection from the mold. It will reduce tooling wear, save time, and improve quality.

Reduce Part Weight

Make parts with the thinnest wall possible. If you make lighter parts, it will minimize the energy and material cost. Besides, lighter parts also solidify faster, which increases production cycles.

Use Multi-cavity Molds

You can reduce the tooling cost by making a multi-cavity mold. As mentioned before, it increases output and reduces costs per piece. Although the initial investment may seem higher, it is profitable for long-term production. Additionally, it delivers a much faster return on large orders.

Minimize Scrap

Reducing scrap means minimal material waste, which saves costs. To do it, optimize the gating and runner system. Use precise and appropriate pressure and temperature for the material. You may also recycle the leftover materials.

Consider the End Use

Always design with the final application in mind. Choose the right material and finishing, such as painting and polishing, for the metal. Apply a tight tolerance only to certain areas and match the design to ensure performance.

Conclusión

Throughout the article, we have learned many essential information about the China die casting mold cost. You learned how to calculate both mold and molded parts cost. You also went through how to optimize these costs to achieve the most efficient result.

Aludiecast is a leading manufacturer of casting parts. We make both the mold and the molded parts. We have an in-house production facility, where we do everything. Our factory doesn’t depend on third-party designers or engineers. If you are interested, you can visit us and learn more about our capabilities.

If you have any questions regarding China die casting mold cost, feel free to reach out to our customer support team. We have a very professional team of experts who are always happy to assist you.