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Glossary

What Is MoldTech Texture? Injection Molding Explained

MoldTech texture names etched grain on mold steel using numbered sample plaques.

Glossary

MoldTech textures are etched grain patterns referenced by MT plaque numbers

Buyers pick a physical sample so mold etchers reproduce the same grain on steel.

MoldTech plaques show numbered textures from fine grain to coarse leather patterns.

Etching removes steel selectively compared with polish only SPI finishes.

Draft requirements rise as texture depth increases on sidewalls.

Glossary

How moldtech texture shows up on real programs

Library photos illustrate molding and tooling context for this term.

  • Use the term in RFQs with geometry and material context, not in isolation.
  • Link to the design guide when the term affects steel or part design.
  • Upload CAD when the term changes tooling scope or piece price.
SURFACE FINISH

Selection

Texture RFQ checklist

Send these with the plaque number to avoid rework samples.

  • MT or equivalent plaque ID on the drawing

  • Direction of grain relative to pull and logo orientation

  • Faces that must stay polished shutoff against textured land

  • Draft angles on ribs next to textured walls

Go deeper

Where this term connects

Each link is a different angle on the same program, not a duplicate definition.

VDI 3400

Alternate texture numbering standard.

VDI 3400

Visual reference

Photos from molding and tooling programs

Images are selected from the NetProto Forge media library for this topic.

Injection molded production parts on a tray

Injection molded production parts on a tray

Injection molded production parts on a tray

Engineer reviewing a molded part drawing

Engineer reviewing a molded part drawing

Engineer reviewing a molded part drawing

Plastic housing components from a steel tool

Plastic housing components from a steel tool

Plastic housing components from a steel tool

FAQ

MoldTech questions

Can MoldTech and SPI appear on one mold?

Yes with shutoffs when each face is specified.

Does texture hide sink?

It can soften appearance but does not replace coring thick sections.

Who applies MoldTech etch?

Specialized etch suppliers process inserts from approved plaques.

Next step

Pick plaques before steel etch

Upload CAD with texture IDs and draft notes.