What Is the Mold Cost Proportion of Custom UHPC Components?

The mold cost of custom UHPC components is a major part of project investment, directly affecting product economy and feasibility. Based on 28 years of custom production experience, Qinglong Group holds that mold costs typically account for 15%-25% of the total cost of UHPC components, with the specific figure influenced by three factors: design complexity, production volume, and mold lifespan. Through scientific management and technological innovation, the mold cost structure can be effectively optimized.

Design complexity is the primary determinant of mold cost. Simple flat panel molds cost about 10%-15% of the total, while complex double-curved panels may reach 25%-30%. In the Shenzhen Yirui Biotechnology Building project, Qinglong Group optimized the mold structure through parametric design, keeping the mold cost of complex shaped panels within 22%. For ultra-high complexity designs (such as the translucent UHPC at Shanghai Century Plaza), modular mold design was adopted; although the initial investment increased, the per-unit cost was diluted through repeated use, ultimately reducing the share to 18%.

Production volume significantly affects cost allocation. In small-batch (<100 pieces) custom projects, mold costs can exceed 30%, while in large batches (>1000 pieces) they can drop to 10%-15%. In the Yangshengtang Pharmaceutical Hangzhou Industrial Park project, Qinglong Group raised the mold reuse rate to 80% through standardized component design, effectively reducing per-piece mold costs. For special designs, rapid mold technologies (such as 3D-printed master molds) are adopted to shorten production cycles and reduce labor costs.

Mold lifespan management optimizes long-term costs. High-quality GRP molds can be used more than 200 times, while simple molds may last only 50 times. Through a strict mold maintenance system, Qinglong Group extended the average mold service life to 250 uses, reducing the mold cost share by 3-5 percentage points. At the same time, a mold library management system was established to enable the recycling of mold resources, further optimizing the cost structure.