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Type of mould: aluminium
Texture: geometrical texture
Moulding process: thermoforming


ML Engraving knows the importance of choosing the right texture while the planning phase, because surface textures play a significant role that goes beyond the aesthetic result. For instance we can consider the importance of anti-slipping textures engraved on moulds for soles, saddles, handlebars or dumbbells to improve adherence with the mean and better the performance.

This case history displays an innovative and original use of a geometrical texture, applied on moulds for plastic glasses produced by thermoforming.


Texture as a reinforcement

The aim of the entire project is to be able to produce a plastic glass that requires less plastic material, but remains rigid and stable.

The reduction of plastic material is directed to:
 

The planning of the texture

The Research & Development Dept. of ML Engraving has carried out a specific geometric texture that corresponds tothe needs of the Client: the texture must be able to reinforce the structure of the plastic glass to make it stay stable when it’s fulfilled with water or other liquids.

ML Engraving has suggested a geometrical pattern with ribs that cross each other creating a thick mesh. This structure becomes a sort of skeleton of the glass and it allows to lessen the consumption of the plastic material.

The processing of the digital file has required accuracy, due to the complexity of the texture as well as of the surface: a vertical cylindrical wall. The body file of the aluminium insert has been given by the Client, while the texture file including the geometric pattern and the logo has been processed by the D.R.E® Office of ML Engraving.


The laser texturing

As the file processing, the laser engraving confirms  the ability of ML Engraving to solve even the most complex situations.

The Company owns 11 YAG laser machines with different features to offer the maximum flexibility and adaptability. The laser photo-engraving of the cylindrical aluminium inserts has required a 5-axes CNC machine and a laser beam with a small and flexible head to allow the perfect engraving.

The Customer is an Indian producer who has been marketing this plastic glasses for 2 years. The request is still on top, that’s why ML Engraving has already engraved 3 series of 100 inserts each. Every single insert show exactly the same texture of the others.