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5‑Axis CNC Machining: Precision Capabilities for Complex Parts

5-axis CNC machining is an advanced form of subtractive manufacturing that allows manufacturers to create highly complex, high-precision parts in a single setup. Like other CNC processes, it works by removing excess material from a workpiece using cutting tools. Parts can be shaped from different materials, such as metals, plastics, and composites. Product teams can […]

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Design for Manufacturing (DFM): A Guide for Smarter and More Efficient Production

Not every design leads to a successful product, even if it theoretically looks flawless. The difference often comes down to Design for Manufacturing (DFM), aka Design for Manufacturability, which involves considering the manufacturing process from the start. A design that seems perfect in CAD can quickly run into real-world roadblocks once it’s time to start […]

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Audience Q&A: Injection Molding Webinar

During Fictiv’s expert webinar Inside the Digital Tool Bench: How to Engineer for Mold Success From Day One, hosted by PlasticsToday, audience members asked our panelists a wide range of practical questions on injection molding, digital DFM tools, and manufacturing best practices. Our panel included: Here are some of the top audience questions and answers […]

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Selecting the Right Material for Your Injection Molding Project

When it comes to injection molding, selecting the appropriate material is one of the most critical decisions you’ll make. The material you choose affects not only the performance and durability of the finished product but also cost, manufacturability, and sustainability. To help you make informed decisions, we’ve developed a comprehensive Injection Molding Material Comparison Chart, […]

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FictivMade: Mold Trials & Revisions for Production-Ready Injection Molds

In earlier chapters of FictivMade, I walked through the detailed design process, DFM analysis, and how to kick off the tooling order. While placing the order is a big milestone, there is still more work to be done before the finish line. Now comes the stage of the multi-tool phone stand project where the injection […]

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Injection Molding Design Guide: Best Practices for Molded Plastic Parts

The Injection Molding Design Guide and all information in this article is available as a free e-book download. Download the Injection Molding Design Guide  Injection molding design focuses on creating plastic parts that can be manufactured efficiently while maintaining strength, quality, and consistency. By following key design guidelines—such as proper wall thickness, draft angles, rib […]

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Product Requirements Document (PRD): Purpose & Best Practices

Why PRDs Are Vital for Hardware Development In the fast-paced world of hardware product development, even a small misunderstanding in product intent can lead to costly rework, missed deadlines, or even a failed launch. That’s where a Product Requirements Document (PRD) becomes invaluable.  A PRD serves as the single source of truth that aligns cross-functional […]

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Tool Steel Manufacturing: Your Guide to Precision Parts 

Tool steel is one of the most important materials in modern manufacturing. Known for its exceptional hardness, high wear resistance, and dimensional stability, tool steel is the go-to choice for demanding applications like fixturing, cutting, stamping, molding, and forming.  If you are looking to buy tool steel parts online or are considering custom tool steel […]

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FictivMade Part 5: Inside the Injection Mold Tooling Process 

In this stage of the FictivMade journey, we finalized the design for our multi-tool phone stand and submitted it for manufacturing. With DFM feedback complete and the green light given to kick off production, the next step is one of the most critical in the product development process: tooling. Injection molds are where digital design […]

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Fictiv Unveils Tariff Management and Landed Cost Services to Reduce Import Disruptions and Delays 

New DDP and Configuration Options Provide Cost Transparency and Control for Customers Worldwide San Francisco, CA — August 7, 2025 — Fictiv, the trusted global manufacturing and supply chain company, today announced new total landed cost pricing on its platform via Delivered Duty Paid (DDP) and Importer of Record (IoR) configuration options.  With so many […]