PTXPO 2025: Moldmaking Meets Molding for Innovation and Connection

That's a wrap on another successful PTXPO for MoldMaking Technology (MMT) in Rosemont, Illinois, where we saw strong connections between the molding and moldmaking communities. Industry professionals spent three productive days networking, learning and developing business relationships. Amid conversations about tariffs, trade, AI and workforce challenges, there was plenty of technology to check out.

Here’s a quick rundown of what stood out on the show floor through the lens of MMT’s tagline: What’s New and What Works in Mold Manufacturing — Engineer, Build, Maintain.

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Moldmakers are embracing automation, robotics and advanced machining to boost precision, cut lead times and extend mold life. Cavalier Tool and Decatur Mold are investing in lights-out machining with robotic cells, while Westminster Tool and Solution Tools Mold & Die use five-axis milling and metrology for tighter tolerances. 

Click here to read more about mold builders at PTXPO here.

When it comes to 3D printing, we have Next Chapter Manufacturing pushing additive manufacturing for conformal cooling and venting to improve cycle times and part quality. Xact Metal’s metal 3D printing enabling custom inserts and Mantle’s automated toolmaking system producing injection mold tools.

AI and simulation tools are transforming mold design. Cimatron and SimForm by Maya HTT use AI to automate cooling and part analysis, while EPS FloTek refines flow simulation for faster iterations. High Gear’s no-code workflow automation platform gives mold builders the power to build their workflow system exactly how they want it without needing IT expertise. 

Hot runner and injection molding advances focus on efficiency and precision. DME, Incoe and Husky are refining temperature control and hot runner management to optimize cycles, reduce defects and improve energy use. Mold-Masters and Technoject enhance temperature control with new nozzle and hot runner designs.

Laser technology is changing mold texturing, engraving and repair. Alliance Specialties, Custom Etch and Precision Laser Technology showed laser welding, engraving and texturing, proving how they extend mold life and improve part aesthetics. Alliance went a step further and let attendees test out the equipment right in the booth! Slide Products showcased maintenance solutions that keep molds running longer while promoting environmentally responsible practices. PCS highlighted its Lase One microwelder and demonstrated a dry ice blaster.

And Progressive Components showed off its wireless mold monitoring technology to provide real-time reporting on injection molds.

The main takeaway? Exhibitors weren’t just showcasing their tech — they were connecting attendees with their trusted partners, creating a true problem-solving network. The industry is pushing for more efficiency, precision and sustainability in the year ahead!

just a glimpse into the ptxpo 2025 experience

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Moldmakers are turning to high-performance materials and coatings for durability and efficiency. International Mold Steel’s line of prehardened mold steels, tool steels and cold-work die steels. Molder’s World’s self-venting mold steel tackles gas trap issues. Crystallume’s diamond-coated cutters extend tool life for cutting tools.

Precision mold components are evolving. DMS and SelfLube offer custom parts for unique mold needs, PCS Co.’s Base Configurator speeds up mold base selection and Hasco America’s Cooling Tornado enhances cooling while cutting cycle times and energy use. Progressive Components showed off its new spring cup, Versa-Slide assemblies and so much more. 

Then there’s Die Sep and RUD Ketten showing off their mold handling solutions to increase safety and efficiency and Kosmek USA’s quick mold change solutions.

Last but not least, MoldMaking Technology’s booth with our “Get to Know Us Better; Get to Know Each Other” theme kept things buzzing. We recorded MMT Chats with industry experts and visitors met our Editorial Advisory Board.  Our infamous “Top 10 Reasons to Be a Moldmaker” T-shirts were again a showstopper—in case you missed it, the #1 reason to be a moldmaker is: “A.I. doesn’t cut it, real moldmakers do!” (Shoutout to Ralph Neufarth for that one! He is a retired P&G engineer and a past MMT EAB member). Plus, our borrowed moldmaker card game from VDWF, developed by German professor Steffen Ritter, was a hit.

The main takeaway? Exhibitors weren’t just showcasing their tech—they were connecting attendees with their trusted partners, creating a true problem-solving network. The industry is pushing for more efficiency, precision and sustainability in the year ahead!