Prototype Silicone Mold Inspection and CTQ Checklist

Do not publish another prototype-QC page.

RUUIPON already has:

• /silicone-mold-prototype-validation/
• /silicone-mold-quality-control/

Both currently cover CTQs, measurement condition and functional casting tests. P84 should add the inspection-sheet modules below to those canonicals instead of creating another blog URL.

Module A: CTQs come from the finished casting/process

A mold drawing can contain dozens of dimensions. Only some cause a real reject.

Examples:

• cavity volume;
• finished piece weight;
• fit/sealing diameter;
• core position;
• tray flatness;
• registration;
• logo depth;
• casting wall thickness;
• machine datum.

Identify those before inspection.

Module B: define the measurement state

Flexible molds can measure differently when relaxed, on a flat plate, in a support tray, assembled in a mother mold or under load.

Each critical dimension should have a measurement state.

Example:

Tray flatness: measured seated in production nest under specified load.

That is more useful than a generic ± tolerance with no fixture definition.

Module C: inspect features that control function

Check:

• parting line;
• registration keys;
• vents/gates;
• removable plugs;
• inner core;
• shell seating;
• cavity surfaces;
• thin webs;
• support border.

Visual inspection should target the known failure modes.

Module D: functional casting is part of inspection

The prototype is not approved until the intended casting process is tested where practical.

Check:

• fill;
• release;
• piece integrity;
• seam;
• weight/volume;
• surface;
• operator method.

A dimensionally correct empty mold can still fail production.

Module E: freeze the approved revision

Record:

• CAD/master revision;
• silicone grade;
• Shore if controlled;
• prototype ID;
• CTQ results;
• test material;
• support condition;
• buyer-approved deviations;
• photos.

Repeat orders should reference this record.

Module F: CTQ inspection sheet

Recommended fields:

• Job / PO:
• Mold ID:
• CAD/master revision:
• Silicone grade:
• Prototype / production:
• Measurement state:
• CTQ #1 / spec / result:
• CTQ #2 / spec / result:
• CTQ #3 / spec / result:
• Functional casting result:
• Demold result:
• Open deviations:
• Approval date: