During the mold layout stage,the molddesigner commits to the type of mold and selects the dimensions and materialsfor cavity inserts,core inserts and mold base.Mold bases are only available indiscrete sizes,so iteration between the inserts’sizing and mold base selectionis normal.The goal of the mold layout design stage is to develop the physicaldimensions of the inserts and mold so as to enable procurement of thesematerials.Mold material selection is also an important decision, since thematerial properties largely determine the mold making time and cost as well asthe mold’s structural and thermal performance.