Frequently Asked Questions
Answers about file formats, size limits, parting planes, and getting parts out of molds. For the full workflow, see how it works or the guides.
Do I need CAD experience to use the tool?
No. You upload an STL or OBJ file and the tool handles scaling, parting plane analysis, and mold generation. You only make choices, not geometry.
Can I make silicone casting molds with this?
Yes. Custom Size mode is well suited to silicone and resin casting. You can print the two halves and cast directly in them, or use the printed geometry as a master and pour RTV silicone around it.
What file types can I upload?
STL and OBJ, the two formats every CAD and 3D sculpting package exports. Meshes should be watertight for the cleanest cavity; the tool runs automatic repair passes on common defects.
What formats can I export?
STL, OBJ, and 3MF for both mold halves on any paid export. STEP, the solid format CNC shops and CAD packages need, is included with a Pro subscription.
How big can my part be?
In Custom Size mode the tool sets no size limit; the mold block grows around the part, and your print bed and browser memory are the practical ceiling. In Mold Backer Compatible mode the part must fit within 69 x 80 x 48 mm and 45 mL to match the INJEKTO 3 cavity.
Will the tool scale my model up?
No. Auto-fit only scales down to fit the mold envelope. You can raise the scale manually up to 2000 percent before analysis runs.
How does it pick the parting plane?
It slices the model along the parting direction and scores each candidate plane on undercut area and floating sections, then recommends the highest scoring one. Symmetrical parts default to the center plane. You can override the recommendation and pick any plane in the 3D view.
What is the demoldability heatmap?
A color overlay on your model showing how each surface will behave during release: green is easy, yellow is medium, orange is difficult, and red marks undercuts that a rigid mold cannot release.
What are alignment pins and do I need them?
Matching pins and sockets that register the two halves to each other with 0.1 mm clearance. They keep the seam tight and stop the two sides of the cast offsetting. They are a Pro feature and worth having on any mold you will run more than once.
Can I order a physical mold instead of printing it?
Yes, in Mold Backer Compatible mode. Manufactured molds are available in PPA-CF, resin, and machined aluminum from the export step.
Do I need an account to try it?
No. You can upload a model, run the analysis, generate a mold, and preview it in 3D without signing up. An account is needed to export files.
Does anything get uploaded to a server?
Mold generation, parting plane analysis, and format conversion all run in your browser. Files are uploaded only when you export, so the exported mold can be delivered to you.
Why will my part not come out of the mold?
Almost always draft or undercuts. Run the demoldability heatmap, clear the red and orange areas by rotating the part or moving the parting plane, and use release agent on every cast.
Why does STEP export take longer than the other formats?
STEP is rebuilt as a true solid model with OpenCascade rather than converted from the mesh. That reconstruction is computationally heavy and can take a few minutes on complex geometry.
Ready to make a mold?
Upload an STL or OBJ file and generate both mold halves in your browser. No signup needed to start.
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