Prototype Tooling

Prototype tooling allows manufacturers to produce representative injection moulded components before committing to a full production tool. It provides an opportunity to assess part fit, functionality and manufacturability, helping to identify potential design changes early. This upfront insight can reduce project risk and provide greater confidence as a product moves towards market launch.

At Liondell, we support prototype tooling projects through UK-based engineering input, design for manufacture (DFM) reviews and project management. Working with our overseas toolmaking partners, we help ensure tools are manufactured to the agreed specification. Clients benefit from the experience of our UK-based, family-run team, with over 50 years of industry knowledge and an established network of tooling partners.

Prototype tools can be used to produce moulded samples for functional testing, design validation and low-volume production where appropriate. Although they may not replicate every aspect of full-scale production, they provide valuable insight into how a component performs before further investment is made.

We help determine the most suitable tooling approach by considering the component design, testing requirements and anticipated production volumes. Our experience spans automotive, medical, consumer products, electronics and industrial applications, supporting customers from early validation through to production tooling.