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Mold Cavity Mold cavity is one of the most important elements in injection molding and has a huge impact on the structural design of the molded part which must be impeccable for manufacturing process to proceed as stated in the project. This article introduces to the injection molding process for different types of cavity molds, their advantages and disadvantages, as well as the cost of injection molding. Table of Contents: ​ Injection molding process Types of molds in injection molding Cavity pressure measurement ​Cavity pressure sensors Mold cavity space Cavity shape and shrinkage Anchor 1 Injection molding process ​ Injection molding technology is used for mass production and it takes an excessive amount of time for manufacturing, thus it is essential for the process to be as rapid as possible. This could be done by ensuring excellent technical properties of the machinery. Therefore, determination of how the plastic will be injected into the mold is a must. The mold consists of the cavity and the core. The process of injection molding starts with placing raw materials (usually in pellets) into a molding machine. Then, through nozzles, the material is being shot into the mold through the injector gate and, lastly, reaches the mold cavity. Cavity is attached to the fixed side of the press while the core is on the moving side of the clamp. In other words, the core makes the internal shape and cavity is the external shape of the part. After the plastic reaches right place, the cavity and the core close and allow the part to cool. Later the core is being pulled out and the component ejected. ​ Types of molds in injection molding ​ Even though the main concepts may be generalized, the process of injection molding may differ depending on the types of mold cavities. There are three main types of molds used in injection molding: ​ Single cavity molds. These molds produce a single part per cycle and are mainly used for micro injection molding when low-volume production is demanded. The machinery for single cavity molds is lighter and smaller, therefore, results in reduced tooling costs and waste minimization. Accordingly, single cavity mold injection molding is usually quite cheap to perform, however not that efficient and thus not widely applicable for mass manufacturing. ​ Multi-cavity molds. The main difference between single and multi-cavity molds is that multi-cavity molds have more than one cavity. Logically, this allows to scale the production and manufacture more parts through a single cycle. Multi-cavity molding increases productivity and enables more efficient use of resources. This type of manufacturing is rather expensive compared to the single cavity molding due to higher machining costs. However, if used for high-volume production, it minimizes price per piece while maximizing efficiency. ​ Family injection molds. This type of molds, as multi-cavity molds, has more than one cavity cut into the mold and several parts are formed from the same material in one cycle. As each cavity may form a different component, family molds are an ideal choice for prototype molds. In this way, not only the processes are more efficient, but also much simpler. Anchor 2 Cavity pressure measurement ​ Cavity pressure is one of the key parameters indicating the quality of the micro molded components , as the sensor indexes the pressure in the mold which overpowers the polymer melt resistance and pushes it into cavities. Then the hot runner systems may be controlled along with the cavity pressure measured. The cavity pressure is usually calculated by the formula below and actually measures pressure per area: Cavity pressure (P) = 400 kgf/cm2 ​ Cavity pressure sensors ​ Specific observations on cavity pressure are made by using cavity pressure sensors that are most usually placed along the polymer melt flow paths to convert the pressure into the measure of the piezoelectric effect. There are two main types of cavity pressure sensors : ​ Direct cavity pressure sensors are directly inserted into the measurable area. Under pressure, a sensor delivers an electrical signal in the pC (Picocoulomb) units and then converts it into pressure units which indicate change in pressure divided by Picocoulombs (bar/pC). ​ Indirect cavity pressure sensors , also called force sensors because pressure is caused by force through ejector pins, are placed outside the cavity, usually behind the ejector pins. Indirect sensors are sensitive to a change in force. Therefore, similarly to direct, indirect sensors transmit electrical signal (pC) after change in pressure, but in comparison, they turn the measurement into change in force units divided by Picocoulombs rather than change in pressure units. ​ Mold cavity space ​ Mold cavity spacing is of great relevance when optimizing injection molding processes. Minimizing mold cavity space may lead to a significant cost reduction due to the following reasons: ​ Retainer plates are less needed to support the nozzles ​ Operating costs decrease because lower cavity spacing prevents the heat loss and nozzles and manifolds connection on the surfaces ​ Mold cavity spacing minimization shortens the injection cycle because the heat is removed faster. ​ However, even though due to mold cavity spacing minimization the processes are cheaper, they might become ineffective. The reason for that is that the surface temperature differences (when cooling) may negatively affect the quality of the components, especially if the component parts cool differently due to uneven wall thickness or deformation which sometimes might be caused by attempts to minimizing mold cavity spaces. Anchor 3 Anchor 4 Anchor 5 Anchor 6 Cavity shape and shrinkage ​ While solidifying, the volume of the molten plastic in the cavity tends to shrink because of the variations of polymers density between melt and rigid stages. Sometimes a warpage may occur - if some parts of a component shrink and cool unequally, this might lead to component deformation and defects. Both equal and unequal shrinking and deformation have the same impact on mold cavities. ​ Shrinkage is signified as a rate and is a crucial indicator in material choice because different materials shrink differently and have specific intervals of allowance. Most usually, the interval has a range between 0.2% and 2%. Not only is shrinkage dependent on material, but also on other factors, such as temperature, duration under pressure, wall thickness, the shape of the gates and additive materials (if present). Back to Top Table of Contents: ​ Injection molding process Types of molds in injection molding Cavity pressure measurement ​Cavity pressure sensors Mold cavity space Cavity shape and shrinkage Explore our services: ​ Insert Molding Insert moulding is the process when components (e.g. wires) are encapsulated ​ READ MORE Small Parts Molding 'Micro' is not always 'micro'. If your part can fit in your hand - mold it 2x faster and cheaper with us. ​ READ MORE Micromolding Micromolding begins when microfeatures take place and vary from 100µm to 5µm in size. READ MORE Medical Injection Molding Microfluidics, OEM solutions, clean room 8 molding, sterilization and medical grade plastics. READ MORE READ MORE READ MORE

EU Projects ​ ​ ​ Installation of self-service tools - a calculator for designing molds and determining th e prices of products Our company provides a service for designing plastic injection molds. Our target customers are companies that create and innovate. To remain competitive in the international market, our quotation process for design services must be fast, comprehensive, and smooth. ​ The goal of this project is to create an e-platform where users can submit the necessary information for mold design and parts production. Users would be able to create their own accounts, upload 3D drawings, and automatically receive comments and insights on optimizing the details for the molding process. With the collected information and optimization decisions, the system would automatically provide a commercial price offer for the design service. This automated solution will reduce the workload of engineer-salespeople, and reallocating resources will allow us to invest more in bringing in new customers. ​ The project funded amount: 50,000 EUR. The project ends: May 10, 2023. Project number: 13.1.1-LVPA-K-860. ​ The project is funded by the European Regional Development Fund. It is funded as a Union response to the COVID-19 pandemic measure.

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Success Stories ​ ​​Get to know about our latest projects and success stories with our clients. Step into our shoes and see the inner world of our daily challenges that we are constantly facing. ASK A QUESTION Scarlet Grey Aug 16, 2022 3 min Success Stories Injection Molded Plastic Housing for 1 Channel EMG Sensor The company specializes in robotic hand prostheses end-to-end development and production. Since 1998 Company continuously and patiently... 138 views 0 comments Dominic Jul 25, 2022 2 min Success Stories "Allergomedica" Uses Moulded Plastic Cases to Enable Health Tests Kits at Home The Allergomedica (UAB Imunodiagnostika) clinic is an innovative place where not only comprehensive and professional help can be provided... 100 views 0 comments Dominykas Turčinskas Jul 21, 2022 2 min Success Stories Uniweb Chooses Micromolds to Mould Grip Testing Device for Geriatrics We used aluminium mico molds for the mold core and cavity and steel for the precision inserts. 92 views 0 comments Dominykas Turčinskas Apr 25, 2022 2 min Success Stories Injection Moulded Plastic Chips for Droplet Microfluidics Droplet Genomics is a bio-tech company disrupting new ground in high performance analysis technologies. 319 views 0 comments Emilijus Šližauskas Apr 21, 2022 4 min Success Stories How Micromolds help Teltonika save time and costs when launching new products Teltonika Telemedic almost two years ago initiated an innovative smart watch development project in the telemedicine industry. 436 views 0 comments Emilijus Šližauskas Apr 12, 2022 3 min Success Stories Injection molding of an AirTag Holder – plastic case with overmolded bushing inserts. SUSHI bikes is a young growing start-up company. Wir dem Unternehmen bei der Entwicklung und Herstellung eines AirTag-Halters. 102 views 0 comments Emilijus Šližauskas Apr 8, 2022 3 min Success Stories MFI Medical Industrial Uses Micromolding for Electrode Plasitc Housings This cooperation itself was about injection moulding of a plastic housing for the electrode. 37 views 0 comments Emilijus Šližauskas Apr 5, 2022 3 min Success Stories Medical Device Moulding – A Test Tube with Moving Components and Membrane Cap Rapid injection molded prototypes for innovative medical test tubes to fight Covid-19 pandemic. 143 views 0 comments masaitytieva Jul 3, 2021 4 min Success Stories Biodegradable Boule de Ferlette for MyCourant Our most recent micro injection molding project has allowed us to put our passions for challenges and sustainability. 135 views 0 comments Dominic Aug 5, 2020 2 min Success Stories Signed Sponsorship Agreement with Vilnius-Lithuania iGEM 2020 Team The iGEM (International Genetically Engineered Machine Competition) is the largest annual international competition in synthetic biology. 107 views 0 comments 1 2

By implementing micro design guidelines and best practices, we ensure functionality while minimizing component size . Our primary focus is on making your project manufacturable. Micro design Precise micro-sized components GET A QUOTE Micro design Simulating the micro parts Utilizing industry-leading simulation tools and practices, we optimize designs to enhance manufacturability . Simulation not only facilitates testing but also helps identify potential challenges early in the micro design and micromolding process. ​ ​ ​ ​ Materials - selecting the correct one We guide your team in choosing the ideal material for your component. The right selection impacts performance, durability, aesthetics, cost-effectiveness, and manufacturability, ensuring the product meets specifications and excels in its environment. Micro-sized parts require unique expertise. By merging our expertise in micro-scale product design with our manufacturing experience, we can optimize your designs and guide your team on the best design practices . The design optimization stage is crucial for determining the overall success of a project and offers the greatest potential for monetary savings . ​ ​ Micro design optimisation for manufacturing ​ We streamline your product design for efficient assembly, reducing complexity and costs. Design for Assembly (DfA) Design for Manufacturing (DfM) We assist in refining products for simple, cost-effective manufacturing. READ MORE Design for Excellence (DfX) We help en hance your product's quality, functionality, and lifecycle value. Contact an engineer info@micromolds.eu Tel: +370 634 44885 Nalšios g. 11, LT-14332, Vilnius, Lithuania

Medical injection molding - from prototypes to production On-demand medical device molding - from concept to serial production in as fast as 5 weeks . ISO 8 clean room, packaging, sterilization and medical grade plastics - 100% in-house. GET A QUOTE Medical devices we have molded Explore our recent projects across the medical field and see a backstage of true medical molding technology Medical test tube prototype molding. READ MORE Swissinnov GmbH 1.Upload CAD No registration step file Few seconds 2.Get Quote Real engineer guidance Transparent pricing 1 day 3.Consult Design assistance Shared know-how Free of charge 4.Manufacture Clean room (class 8) Sterilization 2-5 weeks 5.Get Parts Packaging + assembly Shipping 1 day GET STARTED Micro molding Machines Low op. costs High throughput Easy handling Precision milling EDM machining Easy modification Aluminum micro molds Development and innovation In vitro diagnostics fluid management Wearable Devices How can we do This? By combining micromachines, micromolds, lasers and lithography technologies we can offer an excellent balance between quality, speed and costs. The Cleanness you need ISO 8 clean room bioburden control sterilization service ETO/Gamma packaging and assembly Clean room injection molding Medical grade plastic choice ​ HRAF guide Advisory Sterilization Compliance Mechanical functionality We Stock vast variety of resins. Many of them are medical grade and HRAF approved. We closely work with official resin distributors across the Europe and guide our clients towards correct choice of material for the project. Resin properties takes very important part in production. It impacts devices mechanical functionality and compatible sterilization method. ​ Prototyping the molds ​ Aluminum Mickroforms: 70% cheaper; 2x faster; Guarantee of 200k cycles; SLA 3D printed shapes ​ ​ We use aluminum micro-molds which can be up to 70% cheaper and 2x faster machined than traditional steel molds. These aluminum micro-molds are perfect substitute for steel as they can withstand 200k cycles with no problem. We are also capable of using 3D printed molds for intensive prototyping need. SLA (Stereolithography) 3D printed moulds works together with aluminum fixtures. Aluminum cases adapt and enable SLA printed moulds to work with our injection machines. ​ ​ ​ ASK A QUESTION Our specialties Injection molding small parts READ MORE 'Micro' is not always 'micro'. If your part can fit in your hand - mold it 2x faster and cheaper with us. Micro injection molding Micro-injection molding begins when microstructures with a size of 100µm to 5µm are created. READ MORE With insert molding, components (e.g. wires) are overmoulded Overmoulding READ MORE Anchor 1 Contact an engineer info@micromolds.eu Tel: +370 634 44885 Nalšios g. 11, LT-14332, Vilnius

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We recommend you review their policies before you provide any personal data or complete any transaction with them. ​ Revised August 2022 Terms and Condition of Sale Terms and Condition of Sale As used herein, “Seller” means UAB Technoprojektai (company code: 303176864; VAT No. LT100008148310), a Lithuanian privately held company with headquarters located at Lentvario 16, Vilnius, LT-02300, Lithuania. Technoprojektai provides a Quote for the Buyer’s part(s) based on a 3D CAD model submitted by Buyer to Seller. Any change to the 3D CAD model requires an updated Quote. Quotes are valid for 30 days, after which pricing may change without notice. Seller reserves the right to correct clerical and other typographical errors in any quotation. ​ These Terms and Conditions of Sale, together with a valid Quote provided by Seller, form a legally binding agreement (the “Agreement”) and contain the entire agreement and understanding between Buyer and Seller for the goods and services provided by Seller and supersede any and all other agreements, representations, arrangements and understandings of the parties relating to its subject matter, whether oral or in writing. Each party acknowledges and agrees that it does not rely on, and shall have no remedy in respect of, any promise, assurance, undertaking, representation or statement made (whether innocently or negligently) by any other party or any other person except as expressly set out in this Agreement, in respect of which its sole remedy shall be for breach of contract. These Terms and Conditions of Sale shall be deemed to have been accepted when the Seller accepts a Quote or issues a purchase order or other writing expressing the Buyer’s intent to proceed with the Agreement in response to Seller’s Quote. This Agreement will govern any orders Seller accepts from Buyer and/or Buyer’s authorized purchasers based on the Quote provided to Buyer. The terms and conditions contained herein shall be the only terms that shall govern the purchase and sale of the goods and services between Buyer and Seller, and no other terms and conditions shall apply and are hereby expressly excluded, including, without limitation, any terms contained in a request for quotation, purchase order, website, or elsewhere. The only additional terms in a request for quotation, purchase order, website or other writing that shall apply, if accepted by Seller, shall be terms regarding the description, price, quantity, and shipping destination for goods produced, and any and all other terms and conditions shall be excluded and deemed inapplicable. After Seller accepts an order, Buyer is responsible for any delivery delays or charges, in addition to the original price, due to a Buyer requested change that is agreed to in writing by Seller. If Seller is unable to accept Buyer’s order it will inform Buyer in writing and will not charge Buyer for the goods. This may be because of unexpected limits on Seller’s resources which Seller could not reasonably plan for or because Seller is unable to meet a delivery deadline specified by Buyer. Changes to the Goods by Buyer If Buyer wishes to make a change to the goods Buyer has ordered please contact Seller. Seller will let buyer know if the change is possible. If it is possible Seller will let Buyer know about any changes to the price of the goods, the timing of supply or anything else which would be necessary as a result of Buyer’s requested change and ask Buyer to confirm whether Buyer wishes to go ahead with the change. If Seller cannot make the change or the consequences of making the change are unacceptable to Buyer, Buyer may terminate an order in accordance with the ‘Termination for Convenience’ section below. Changes to the Goods by Seller Seller may change the goods to reflect changes in relevant laws and regulatory requirements and/or to implement minor technical adjustments and improvements. Seller may also make any changes agreed in advance as set out in the Quote. If Seller makes any other changes, Seller will notify the Buyer and Buyer may then contact Seller to end the contract before the changes take effect and receive a refund for any goods paid for but not received. Termination for Convenience Buyer may terminate an order in whole or in part at any time by written notice to info@micromolds.eu effective upon receipt by Seller. In the event of termination, Seller reserves the right to invoice Buyer for all goods produced or services performed prior to receipt of notice of termination as well as for any materials, including resin purchased to make Buyer’s parts which Seller is unable to return. This section shall not limit or affect the Buyer’s right to cancel this order for breach by Seller. Technoprojektai manufactures the goods ordered by the Buyer individually according to the Buyer’s individual specifications and therefore the Buyer has no statutory right of cancellation under consumer protection legislation. Termination by Seller Seller may terminate this Agreement in whole or in part at any time by written notice to Buyer if (a) Buyer does not make any payment when it is due and such payment remains outstanding for more than 30 days after Buyer’s notice to Seller; (b) Buyer does not, within a reasonable period of time, provide Seller with information that is necessary for Seller to provide the products; or (c) Buyer does not, within a reasonable time, allow Seller to deliver the products to Buyer or collect them from Seller. Delivery; Quantity; Title Goods will be delivered as soon as reasonably possible in accordance with the estimated delivery date set out in the Quote. Seller reserves the right to limit quantities at any time. Partial shipments may be delivered to Buyer where this is agreed in a Quote. All parts are shipped FCA (Incoterms 2010) at Seller’s facilities. Title passes to the Buyer at the time and place of delivery to the carrier. Price and Terms of Payment All prices are quoted and payments shall be made in Euro and are exclusive of freight, shipping, special packaging or handling, duties, and unless specifically stated, Value Added Tax or any other sales, excise, or use taxes arising in connection with this transaction (other than taxes based solely on Seller’s taxable income). No discounts are authorized. Payment may be made by any international money transfer via Beneficiary’s account held payment service provider’s institution, or a form of prepayment acceptable to Seller. Upon transfer approval, goods or services may be invoiced and all sums are due and payable net-30 from the date of the invoice. To the extent Buyer desires Seller to present invoices or other information electronically via Buyer’s or a third party’s electronic payment website, any costs associated with such access will be borne by Buyer. Nonconforming Goods Buyer shall inspect all goods upon delivery by Seller, and should any of the goods be nonconforming goods, Buyer must notify Seller, in writing, within ninety (30) days of delivery of the goods describing the nature of any nonconformity. Seller shall have the right and option to repair or replace any nonconforming goods. Seller shall not have any obligation to repair, replace or otherwise compensate Buyer for nonconforming goods if Buyer fails to notify Seller in writing that goods are nonconforming within ninety (30) days of Seller’s delivery of the goods. Warranties Seller assumes no responsibility for the design of the goods that are the subject of this transaction. To the extent Seller’s personnel recommend design modifications or provide design analysis, simulation or advice, they do so only to help meet the requirements of Seller’s own manufacturing process. The Buyer retains sole legal responsibility for the design specifications and performance of the goods that are the subject of this transaction. Buyer is solely responsible for ensuring the goods and services purchased from Seller meet applicable regulatory requirements. The Buyer represents and warrants to Seller that no information furnished or to be furnished by the Buyer to Seller constitutes information classified by the local laws as confidential, secret or top secret or similar designation. Except as expressly set out in this Agreement, all warranties, terms, conditions and undertakings, express or implied are excluded to the fullest extent permitted by law, including but not limited to any warranty of satisfactory quality, fitness for purpose or non-infringement. Without limiting the generality of the foregoing, Seller assumes no responsibility or liability for the selection of any materials for the goods that are the subject of this transaction. The Buyer is solely responsible for ensuring that materials selected for goods to be manufactured by Seller meet any applicable regulatory requirements or specifications including but not limited to Directive -2011/65/EU on the restriction of the use of certain hazardous substances in electrical and electronic equipment (RoHS Directive) together with any national legislation implementing such Directive, ISO, FDA, UL, CSA, CE, TUV, FCC, NSF, and USP. Any statements made by Seller personnel or specifications provided by Seller regarding materials should be verified by the Buyer with the manufacturer of that material. Indemnification Buyer agrees to defend, indemnify and hold harmless Seller (and its employees, representatives and agents) from and against all claims, liabilities, losses, damages, penalties, fines and sanctions of any kind (including, without limitation, interest, attorneys’ fees and expenses penalties or any other governmental sanctions of any kind) resulting from or arising out of a breach of any provision of this Agreement or any third party claim for infringement of intellectual property rights, including patent rights, trademarks, copyrights or misuse of trade secrets or confidential information. Force Majeure Seller shall not be liable for any failure to perform or delay in performance under this Agreement if such failure or delay is caused by acts of God, fire, storm, strikes, blackouts, labour difficulties, riots, inability to obtain materials, equipment, labour or transportation, governmental restrictions, biologic crisis and pandemics or any other event beyond Seller’s reasonable control. In the event of any shortage of raw materials or other supplies, Seller may allocate materials and supplies among its buyers in such manner as Seller may determine in its sole discretion, and shall have no liability to the Buyer on account of any delay or cancellation on account thereof. Tooling Due to the proprietary nature of Seller’s process, all Tooling is proprietary and is generally not compatible with or transferable to other equipment. Notwithstanding any tooling or engineering charges imposed by Seller, all such Tooling shall be and remain the property of Seller. However, Seller shall not use Custom Tooling in the production of goods for any other buyer of Seller without the Buyer’s express permission. As used in this Agreement, “Tooling” means all Seller proprietary software, processes, procedures, and tooling developed by Seller, for the quoting, analysis, design, automation, and manufacturing of machined parts, injection moulds, injection moulded parts, and 3D printed parts and “Custom Tooling” means tooling, molds, or fixturing developed specifically for the Buyer and for which the Buyer is separately charged by Seller. Seller’s tooling storage policy is such that after a three-year period of inactivity on the Custom Tooling, Seller may destroy the Custom Tooling, in its discretion. Text, Illustrations, and Software Files Provided by Seller All intellectual property rights to text, illustrations, software files and other materials (“Seller Materials”) provided by Seller to Buyer are retained by Seller. Buyer will not, without prior written approval of Seller (which may be withheld for any reason), remove any of Seller’s markings or change in any way the Materials. Text, Illustrations, and Software Files Provided by Buyer Copyright in files, all text, illustrations, software files and other materials (“Buyer Materials”) provided by Buyer to Seller and with the exception of Tooling or Custom Tooling as defined above, any deliverables, designs, or works of authorship in any form, including modifications or derivative works thereof, that may be created or produced for Buyer during the course of Seller’s performance of services shall be deemed the sole property of Buyer and all right, title and interest therein shall be held solely by Buyer. Confidentiality “Confidential Information” means any information that Buyer discloses to the Seller that is proprietary to the Buyer and not generally known to the public. The Seller will not use any Confidential Information for any purpose except for the purposes of carrying out its obligations pursuant to this Agreement. The Seller will use the same degree of care (but no less than a reasonable degree of care) to protect the secrecy of and avoid disclosure and unauthorized use of the Confidential Information as the Seller employs with respect to its own confidential and proprietary information. Upon Buyer’s written request, the Seller will destroy all documents containing or representing Confidential Information and all copies thereof, and erase any such Confidential Information from the Seller’s computer systems except electronic copies that are electronically archived and not readily accessible. If requested by Buyer, Seller will provide written confirmation of such return or destruction and erasure to Buyer. Prohibited Purposes Buyer warrants that the goods that are the subject of this transaction will not be implanted in a human body and are not subject to inspection by any regulatory authorities, including. Buyer certifies that its designs (e.g., 3D CAD models) submitted to Seller and the manufacture and delivery of goods according to the Buyer’s design will not yield goods that are in violation of any local firearms laws. Limitation of liability In no event shall Seller be liable, whether in contract, tort (including negligence), breach of statutory duty or otherwise for any loss of profit or any indirect or consequential loss of any kind. Buyer acknowledges that the estimated and actual fees and charges paid for the services reflect this limitation of liability and allocation of risk. The total aggregate liability of Seller or its suppliers to Buyer under this agreement shall in no event exceed the total sums paid by buyer to Seller for the order giving rise the liability. Data Protection The Seller will use the personal information provided by the Buyer: ​ to supply the products to the Buyer; to process the Buyer’s payment; and if agreed with the Buyer during the order process, to give the Buyer information about similar products. This may be stopped at any time by the Buyer contacting the Seller at info@micromolds.eu . Miscellaneous. If any provision or part-provision of this Agreement is or becomes invalid, illegal or unenforceable, it shall be deemed modified to the minimum extent necessary to make it valid, legal and enforceable. If such modification is not possible, the relevant provision or part-provision shall be deemed deleted. Any modification to or deletion of a provision or part-provision under this section shall not affect the validity and enforceability of the rest of this Agreement. The Agreement and any dispute or claim arising out of or in connection with it or its subject matter or formation (including non-contractual disputes or claims) shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the local law of Lithuania. English Language All documents, notices and legal proceedings executed, given or instituted pursuant to or relating directly hereto shall be in the English language, and the meaning of all words and phrases of this offer shall be defined, construed and interpreted in the English language. Revised August 2022 Quality Policy Qyality Policy Our commitment to quality enables our mission to meet our customers' needs for quality prototypes and on-demand manufactured parts at unprecedented speeds. ​ Micromolds is committed to: ​ Delivering quality parts on time Meeting or exceeding our commitments to our customers Meeting applicable and regulatory requirements Continually improving our processes, products and services Developing and maintaining the skills of our employees ​ Revised August 2022

Lateral flow device hardware - an OEM solution On-demand LFT plastic case manufacturing - freedom to choose and configure your design. ISO 8 clean room, packaging, sterilization and medical grade plastics. Customize your rapid test plastic case A trustworthy rapid test subcontractor At Micromolds, we think that many of in vitro diagnostics devices are increasingly moving away from laboratories towards point of care testing. Reacting to the current increased demand for rapid COVID-19 testing we have launched an OEM solution for LFT manufacturers. ​ We provide state of the art test strip assays injection molding service. This service is available for any assay development customers or clientele looking to use their lateral flow immunoassay from third-party manufacturers. Establish your supply chains with us and use complex high-volume and resilient manufacturing processes which are tailor made solutions for variety of assay specifications and market demand of all sizes. Ready to start? 1 Provide your LFT information 2 3 Analysis 1 day 4 Optimization 1-2 weeks Get quote or call from our engineer Once an order is placed manufacturing begins Manufacturing 1-2 weeks LFT's are shipped Contact an engineer You might also be interested Micromolding Micromolding begins when microfeatures take place and vary from 100µm to 5µm in size. ​ READ MORE Small Parts Molding 'Micro' is not always 'micro'. If your part can fit in your hand - mold it 2x faster and cheaper with us. ​ READ MORE Medical Injection Molding READ MORE Microfluidics, OEM solutions, clean room 8 molding, sterilization and medical grade plastics.

Design for Manufacturing for Injection Molding Design for manufacturing or manufacturability (DFM) refers to a process that optimizes the design of a component, part, or product to make it less difficult to manufacture, cheaper, and more convenient to deal with. Typically, design for manufacturing encounters the early stages, most probably, when the process is in the designing phase. At that time, it is easier to optimize the product and reduce unnecessary steps and costs. Ideally, the process of DFM involves these given steps: Easier assembly in later stages: Simplification of product design with the reduction in the number of parts and operations. Technological parts: Designing parts that are easy to manufacture for different technology. Avoiding tight tolerance and designing the product , considering capabilities of the technology available. Effective utilization of available resources. Mistake-proof assembly and product design (Poka-Yoke – a lean manufacturing technique preventing defects and errors in the first place of any process). Incorporation of efficient and easy fastening methods. Table of Contents: ​ Why is DFM relevant for Injection Molding? Time and Costs related to DFM: ​How to optimize DFM - Tips and Tricks​ Conclusion Anchor 1 Why is DFM Relevant for Injection Molding? ​ DFM combines the engineering and production department in the designing phase, where each ensures maximum utilization of time, cost-effectiveness, quality, and customer satisfaction . Its importance can be gauged from the fact that design decisions control around 70% of a product's manufacturing expenses (materials, processing/handling, and assembly). ​ Meanwhile, in an injection molding process, the successful execution of design for manufacturing is more technical and requires understanding complex applications. The DFM process in injection molding is directly related to an experienced molder. Hence, a deep understanding of the DFM process in injection molding helps for efficient design decisions and offers the benefits of: ​ 1. Elimination of Risks ​ In injection molding, streamlining the design for manufacturability can timely figure out and eliminate the potential problems before the product enters the manufacturing process on the mass level. The proper implementation of DFM identifies manufacturability issues while a product is still under designing process. That is how any considerable problem is pre-apprehended, reducing the risks associated with new product development. ​ 2. Actionable Recommendations ​ Design for manufacturability possesses an excelling edge over conventional optimization processes since it includes giving actionable recommendations. Highlighting the major manufacturing issues, DFM offers suggestions that are sure to eliminate problems from manufacturing processes. In some cases, minor changes in design can bring the issue down. ​ 3. Opportunities to Lowering Costs ​ Design for manufacturing operates as a SWOT Analysis for the injection molding process that figures out strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats of the process. Furthermore, the most valuable feature of this optimization process is its ability to uncover opportunities to lower costs without bringing any considerable changes to the design – form, fit, and function. ​ 4. Shorter Product Development Time ​ Primarily, the companies who prepare the design and outsource manufacturing remain a colossal benefit because the design for manufacturing analysis can shorten the product's development time. Consequently, instead of visiting vendors or suppliers for quotes/feedback, engineers can better predict costs and timelines and analyze manufacturability by themselves. ​ Anchor 2 Time and Costs Related to DFM ​ DFM is specialized in cutting costs and reducing product development time: ​ How DFM Affects Cost­: ​ DFM is highly reliable since it can achieve cost reduction in many ways, and the common of which is reducing the amount of complexity of necessary steps in the process. If operations are minimizable with minor changes in design, time and cost savings are faster to achieve. ​ For example, injection molding plastics are vulnerable to breakage and failure if ejected on shear from the mold. Nevertheless, adding pins for ejection in a strategic location can save on materials' costs. In short, DFM also proves that increasing quality does not have to be always expansive. ​ Let us consider another example. Quite possibly, the most prominent approach to decrease costs is to reduce changes required after tool building. No business wants to suffer the cost brought about by retooling. Given that, design for manufacturing analysis provides injection molding engineers with project insights and intuitions to help them streamline tooling and decrease costs. ​ Moreover, DFM analysis recognizes likely problem areas, design modification opportunities, unsatisfactory draft angles and tolerances, unmachinable features, incomprehensible geometries, calculations, etc. All these actions ultimately point towards cost reduction. ​ How DFM Affects Time: ​ Like reducing costs of processes with mainstreaming DFM, the time for product development also reduces significantly. First, DFM provides engineers with an opportunity to analyze the whole process, and later, this analysis saves much time that might have consumed visiting vendors. At the same time, reducing the total number of operations and standardization of parts and components are also instrumental in reducing the time to the development of the final product. Remember, the standardization of parts refers to a process that expects to take out all the intentional, unintentional, and superficial differences in producing similar and comparable parts to accomplish a critical reduction in the supplier and part production. Anchor 3 How to Optimize DFM – Tips and Tricks ​ 1. Adjust with Minimum Number of Parts ​ Reduction in the number of parts directly puts a cut to the investment or cost. Inarguably, fewer parts imply fewer purchases, reduced handling of products, reduced complexity of assembly, and less time for production, engineering, and development, which are considerable benefits in terms of cost and time. Most of the time, the minimum number of parts requires the standardization of the process. For example, parts that do not have relative motion get not made up of different materials. Otherwise, it would make the assembly or parts' service tremendously problematic or impossible. A few ways to deal with part-count reduction depend on using one-piece configurations and selecting manufacturing processes like injection molding. ​ 2. Development of Modular Design ​ Simplification of manufacturing activities is directly related to the better implementation of design for manufacturing. Typically, using modular product design approach (subdividing a product into smaller parts in view of their performance, functions, and specifications) simplifies manufacturing activities like testing, assembly, redesign, inspection, purchasing, maintenance, and service expected. The reason is that modules make product updates more flexible in the redesign process, support testing before final assembly, and use standard components to reduce product variations. ​ 3. Wise Material Selection ​ The optimum combination between cost-effective material and fabrication directly impacts the manufacturing costs. Even a suitable material supports ease of fabrication, which also means eliminating unnecessary steps like surface finishing, excessive tolerance, and other final operations like polishing/painting that add to the price of the process. ​ 4. Minimization of Assembly's Direction ​ Assembly direction plays a vital role in reducing time and cost. Therefore, while adding parts to the assembly, it is suggested to assemble parts from one direction and add them in the standing order from the above side. Later, pieces will attach instantly under the action of gravitational force. What is more, Poka Yoke is a lean manufacturing technique that can be used for mistake-proof assembly. Poka-Yoke is significant to the assemblies and essentially controlled inside the whole production process. Therefore, mistake-proofing methods get used to avoid errors caused by operators. The techniques may include utilizing proximity sensors, vision systems, specially designed fixtures, pins, barcode reader, pressure sensors, warning lights, and speck checking. Anchor 4 5. Minimization of Handling ​ At the same time, handling gets usually used to maintain objects during the processes; however, in DFM, handling also considers positioning, fixing, and orientation of the parts or components. For instance, symmetrical parts must be preferred whenever probable. Otherwise, the asymmetry needs to be amplified to keep away from failures. Besides that, during the designing phase, try to reduce the flow of waste materials or parts in the manufacturing process. ​ Conclusion ​ Design for manufacturing is one of the widely adopted methods that reduce product development time, costs and eliminates all major and potential issues that might be problematic in product mass production. Like other manufacturing processes, DFM is well-known for injection molding as well. In an economic downturn, industries probably implement DFM to achieve high gains with the lowest investment. At the end of the process, DFM saves around 20 to 30% of the costs. Back to Top Table of Contents: ​ Why is DFM relevant for Injection Molding? Time and Costs related to DFM: ​How to optimize DFM - Tips and Tricks​ Conclusion Explore our services: ​ Insert Molding Insert moulding is the process when components (e.g. wires) are encapsulated ​ READ MORE Small Parts Molding 'Micro' is not always 'micro'. If your part can fit in your hand - mold it 2x faster and cheaper with us. ​ READ MORE Micromolding Micromolding begins when microfeatures take place and vary from 100µm to 5µm in size. READ MORE Medical Injection Molding Microfluidics, OEM solutions, clean room 8 molding, sterilization and medical grade plastics. READ MORE READ MORE READ MORE

Injection Molding Prototyping Prototyping refers to an experiment wherein organizations tend to implement ideas from a piece of paper to computerization and then make a physical, tangible product. With prototypes, plans can get improved and authenticated so that the company delivers desirable and accurate products. Table of Contents: ​ Introduction to Injection Molding Prototyping When is Prototyping needed? Why is Prototyping key in Injection Molding? How to do Prototyping? Conclusion Anchor 1 Introduction to Injection Molding Prototyping ​ Prototyping remains the first step in figuring out hidden obstructions and unanticipated challenges as well as the underlying feel and looks of the product, leading to minimized product failure chances—the product that is likely to be achieved at the end of the manufacturing process. Prototyping ensures eliminating potential quality control issues and helps manufacturers analyze the final product on-ground realities. Furthermore, it has diverse applications that add massive value to the manufacturing process. For example: Helps testing various plastic materials Confirms if the geometry of the part is feasible or not Makes sure the durability of product by stress analysis Presents a physical model of the final product which is likely to be produced ​ When is Prototyping needed? Prototyping has now become an essential part of injection molding practices. The mainstreaming of prototyping is to ensure the quality of the product and analyze it under certain circumstances, likely to act on the final product under daily use. At the same time, the concept of prototyping is encouraged for low-volume production. Without a doubt, low-volume production is required either when a new development is being done or when complex and very high-quality parts (micro-injection molding) are needed. In both cases, prototyping is a natural product development phase required across all industries and manufacturing processes. In the first case, prototypes serve various purposes that include: Justifying the product idea to potential financial backers and investors. Provoking feedback from likely customers. Analyzing functionality and the injection molding process feasibility. In the second case, injection molding of micro parts is a sensitive and precision-demanding operation that is difficult to meet without a prototype wherein the components get analyzed under operational conditions. The prototyping of the final part usually reveals if the design could get more optimized or not. The tolerance levels of prototyped parts are analyzed, and the design and features such as material, molding temperature, and demolding pressure are also checked. Anchor 2 Why is Prototyping key in Injection Molding? Whatever the product a company is intended to produce, a prototype is necessary for the design process and better quality. That is how engineers and mold makers will be on the top to avoid any design and other manufacturing processes complexities. Along these lines, here are some reasons why prototyping is critical in injection molding: Anchor 3 1. Testing and Evaluating the Design Unluckily, designs, drawings, and ideas are sometimes a far cry away from the real world where the product is to be used. But with the help of creating a prototype, it becomes possible to check and analyze the product on a factual basis. An accurate product model helps to understand which part of the product is worthwhile and which one needs to be revised. Similarly, it is equally possible to receive omissions that were not noticeable on the piece of paper. Besides its evaluation, the team of experts and designers find an ample opportunity to test the product under a specific environment that inflicts stresses on the original part in its serving tenure. ​ 2. Clarifying Issues and Production Costs Prototypes can appropriately characterize the shape, size, and function of a part. They can also prompt more meaningful and effective communication between design and manufacturing departments, facilitating a durable and efficient product. Furthermore, the whole production process becomes apparent, and then it could be checked on the reality grounds if any of the operations could get optimized, improved, or even removed. It will streamline the production and bring about minimizing costs in the overall production cycle. 3. Grasping the Marketing Opportunities Unless there is a physical model of the product, it will not be possible to attain the opportunities in the market associated with that specific product. Without a prototype or physical representation of the product, it is impossible to get potential clients and make them commit to purchase the product. But with the help of the product in hand, the concept instantly converts into reality, and it is easier to crack a purchasing deal at that moment. 4. Increasing Brand Confidence and Trust Without prototyping, a completed project may induce questions because of the lack of information about the project and its inability to convey the promised idea. However, prototyping fills up that gap before implementation. It enables the brand to develop personal relationships with financial backers and buyers, making it effortless to measure a project's growth and foster credibility. 5. Getting Patents Registered If the product is unique and new, patents must be considered. There are massive chances for copying a product's design that adds undue competition for original manufacturers with such a product. Subsequently, with the help of a prototype in hand, it is best to sit with the patent attorney and get the patents of the design registered in the company's name. Anchor 5 How to do Prototyping? The following are the three steps streamlined to make a prototype of a part or a product: 1. Creation of a Plastic Product Design The fundamental step of manufacturing always belongs to design. Whatever product is to be manufactured, its design is the first and foremost step towards the actual part. While making the design for a plastic part, keep a realistic approach and see if the design concept is practical or not. But remember, not all designs can be manufactured with injection molding. Consequently, there is a need to team up with plastic specialists and perform design optimization for injection molding technology and then 3D prototyping to ensure the engineering-for-production of that design. Likewise, ideas can be designed, or even animated videos can be created to give a realistic view of the intentional product from multiple aspects. 2. Engineering of a Product Product engineering of the design is typically related to maintaining the technical aspects decided in the design. For example, design entails a specific thickness for the final product, so the thickness of the prototype should also be an exact match of the decided plan. For this purpose, an analysis of design is mandatory to know whether it will be feasible with this thickness or not. 3. Prototyping with Injection Molding Prototype injection molding includes the utilization of plates that will push the mold's one part, and water lines are streamed for the cooling cycle once the cavities are loaded up with the injected material. Whether it is a small and straightforward or complex prototype, mold can be created for prototyping. It is essential to know that if the prototype is complex, mold should be made using special resins to achieve high levels of accuracy. On the other hand, in small and straightforward prototypes, cheap aluminum molds and rapid tooling should be considered—moreover, the smaller the molding machine, the lower the cost. Furthermore, prototyping assists to decide among the types of molds. 3D printed models visualize both single-cavity and multi cavity molds, and this makes it easier to choose the right type for a specific project. Once the making of mold gets done, the following process is carried out using an injection molding machine. A clamp puts together two halves of the mold through extreme hydraulics pressure in injection molding, and then molten material is injected into it. Once it gets cooled solidified, and de-molded, the plastic design has become manifested and taken shape. Anchor 6 Conclusion The prototype follows the same procedure and protocols followed by the product in its mass-level production. Nevertheless, the only difference is that the former is streamlined to ensure its quality, and the latter operates based on results generated by prototyping. The potential benefits of prototyping associated with injection molding cannot be overlooked in the interim. It offers cost estimation, design testing & evaluation, smoothness of workflow, minimum errors, marketing opportunities, and improved brand confidence and trust. Moreover, the steps of prototyping have also been discussed above. Table of Contents: ​ Introduction to Injection Molding Prototyping When is Prototyping needed? Why is Prototyping key in Injection Molding? How to do Prototyping? Conclusion Back to Top Explore our services: ​ Insert Molding Insert moulding is the process when components (e.g. wires) are encapsulated ​ READ MORE Small Parts Molding 'Micro' is not always 'micro'. If your part can fit in your hand - mold it 2x faster and cheaper with us. ​ READ MORE Micromolding Micromolding begins when microfeatures take place and vary from 100µm to 5µm in size. READ MORE Medical Injection Molding Microfluidics, OEM solutions, clean room 8 molding, sterilization and medical grade plastics. READ MORE READ MORE READ MORE

Injection molding materials Explore and enrich your knowledge about plastics used for injection molding projects ASK A QUESTION Polymers general Commercial-grade polymers ​ Here at "Micromolds" warehouses we keep wide variety of plastic materials including recycled plastic and elastomers (TPEs). When choosing polymer for your part one should evaluate some of crucial design constraints: ​ Mechanical properties of a polymer (e.g. UV resistant material); Compatibility with injection moulding (even almost every polymer is suitable for injection moulding, compatibility is still important when part has high resolution features and is used for micro moulding or when overmoulding processes take part; Cosmetic appearance like color and surface finish are things to consider of no less importance; Final but not the least design constraint is the cost of material. ​ You are always welcomed to use your own materials. Please inform us about that in online quoting form and feel free to supply it for us. Thin wall bonding guide Thin wall injection capabilities​ ​ In order to avoid cosmetic defects like flash, sink, warp, knit lines and maintain uniform part structure in plastic injection moulding it is recommended to evaluate wall thickness for various part cross-sections. Here is the list of recommended ranges from min. to max. of wall thicknesses for most often used polymer materials in injection moulding*: ​ ABS injection moulding: 0.143mm - 3.556mm; Acetal injection moulding: 0.762mm - 3.048mm; Acrylic injection moulding: 0.635mm - 12.7mm; Nylon (polyamide) injection moulding: 0.762mm - 2.921mm; Polycarbonate injection moulding: 1.016mm - 3.81mm; Polyester injection moulding: 0.635mm - 3.175mm; Polyethylene injection moulding: 0.762mm - 5.08mm; Polypropylene injection moulding: 0.635mm - 3.81mm; Polystynene injection moulding: 0.889mm - 3.81mm; Polyurethane injection moulding: 2.032mm - 19.05mm. ​ *Based on https://www.manufacturingcenter.com/web/home.php Material bonding guide for overmoulding, 2K, inserts ​ For good mechanical or chemical material bonding and adhesion in overmoulding, 2K shot moulding and insert moulding processes various combinations can work out. Enormous amount of materials out there leads to a struggle when looking for right match for the substrate material. It is best to refer on recommendations of materials' manufacturer. In research, it is good to have in mind that materials can bond in two ways: mechanical or chemical. Below some recommendations** are indicated to guide you through the selection process of materials. ​ Personal care: ​Substrate: Polypropylene; TPEs: Dynaflex, Kraton, Versaflex CL, Versalloy XL; Household: ​Substrate: ABS, PC/ABS; TPEs: Versaflex OM, Versollan OM; Consumer electronics: Substrate: Polycarbonate TPEs: Versaflex OM, Versollan OM; Hardware: Substrate: Nylon 6 and 6/6; TPE: Versaflex OM; Healthcare: Substrate: Propionate, Copolyester; TPE: Versaflex OM.​ ​​ **Based on: https://www.avient.com ​ Plastic materials for micro moulding ​ In micro injection sometimes material choice can lead to moulding process adaptation and sometimes the process can lead to different material choice. This correlation exists because injection gates should be sized correctly to avoid heat stress on polymer injecting to the cavity. Some of the most used materials for micro moulding are: ​ LCP; PMMA; cyclic olefin copolymers (COCs). PEEK; PLA; PGA; LSR; polyethylene; polypropylene; polycarbonate materials for micromoulding Our services Smal Parts Molding 'Micro' is not always 'micro'. If your part can fit in your hand - mold it 2x faster and cheaper with us. READ MORE Micromolding begins when microfeatures take place and vary from 100µm to 5µm in size. Micro Injection Molding READ MORE Insert moulding is the process when components (e.g. wires) are encapsulated Insert Molding READ MORE Microfluidics, OEM solutions, clean room 8 molding, sterilization and medical grade plastics. Medical Injection Molding READ MORE Contact an engineer info@micromolds.eu Tel: +370 634 44885 Nalšios g. 11, Vilnius, Lithuania, 14332