Raised lettering on show face
- Scuff risk on high gloss
- Polish time at logo steel
- Visible if gate wash crosses text
DFM
Lettering and Engraving: Injection Molding Design Rules
Lettering and engraving need draft and parting plans like any other molded detail.
DFM
Lettering and engraving must release from steel like any other feature
Raised or sunk text changes draft, polish, and ejection on small details.
Raised lettering on a textured face can polish differently than the surrounding grain.
Very small reverse text fills poorly on thin walls unless gate and vent paths are clear.
Logos near parting lines need shutoff planning to avoid flash through the art.
DFM
Quote this rule with your CAD upload
NetProto DFM review flags these geometry patterns before steel is ordered.
- Call out draw direction and cosmetic faces on the model.
- Note resin family even when the grade is not final.
- Tighten tolerances only on mating features that need them.
Style
Raised logo versus sunk engraving
Both can work. Mold polish and fill differ.
Sunk lettering on hidden area
- Easier to hide on functional surface
- Fill and vent into small channels
- May need larger draft on letter side walls
Related rules
Design guide
Jump to sibling rules before you freeze CAD.
Design guide hub
All DFM topics on one route.
Design guide hubDFM article
Long form engineer guide.
DFM articleDraft angle
Release on letter side walls.
Draft angleParting line
Art near the seam.
Parting lineColors page
Molded in color context.
Colors pageVisual reference
Molding context for this rule
Images from the Forge media library illustrate typical programs.
Injection molded part design review on CAD
Injection molded part design review on CAD
Plastic housing with ribs and bosses
Plastic housing with ribs and bosses
Engineer measuring molded component
Engineer measuring molded component
FAQ
Lettering questions
What letter height is moldable?
Depends on wall thickness and resin. Upload art for DFM review.
Can logos be laser etched post mold?
Yes as secondary ops when mold engraving is too costly.
Does engraving affect IP?
Part marking is separate from tooling IP. Mark what regulations require.
Next step
Send logo art with draft direction
Upload vector art and note raised versus sunk preference.