VDI 3400 grades
VDI 3400 texture detail.
VDI 3400 gradesGlossary
What Is VDI 3400? Injection Molding Explained
VDI 3400 is a European numbering system for mold texture depth and appearance.
Glossary
VDI 3400 numbers describe European mold texture depth and appearance
Drawings may use VDI instead of SPI or MoldTech when supply chains expect it.
Higher VDI numbers mean coarser texture and usually require more draft on sidewalls.
VDI and SPI solve similar problems with different numbering systems.
Mixed standard drawings need explicit mapping or one primary standard per face.
Glossary
How vdi 3400 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.
Standards
Finish vocabulary buyers mix
Clarify which standard controls acceptance.
| Standard | Typical use |
|---|---|
| SPI bands | Polish and blast gloss or matte on mold steel |
| MoldTech MT numbers | Etched grain from plaques |
| VDI 3400 | Numeric texture depth common in EU tooling packs |
Go deeper
Where this term connects
Each link is a different angle on the same program, not a duplicate definition.
MoldTech texture
Plaque based etch reference.
MoldTech textureSPI finish chart
US SPI bands for gloss and matte.
SPI finish chartDesign guide
Draft increases with texture depth.
Design guideVisual 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
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
FAQ
VDI 3400 questions
Can VDI and SPI appear on one drawing?
Use one primary standard per face or map equivalents in the mold spec.
Does higher VDI always mean cheaper tooling?
Not always. Etch depth and draft drive cost and risk.
How do I pick a VDI number?
Start from a physical sample or the texture guide, then lock on T0 texture samples.
Next step
Align texture standard early
Upload CAD noting VDI, SPI, or MoldTech per face.