How to Use Parting Line in SolidWorks: Step-by-Step Guide
In SolidWorks, use the
Parting Line tool to define the split line between mold halves by selecting the mold tool and part faces. This creates a line that shows where the mold will separate, essential for mold design and manufacturing.Syntax
The Parting Line feature in SolidWorks is accessed via the Mold Tools tab. You select the mold tool face and the part faces to generate the parting line automatically.
Key parts:
- Mold Tool Face: The face of the mold that will form one half.
- Part Faces: Faces of the part that interact with the mold tool.
- Parting Line: The resulting line showing the mold split.
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1. Open your part in SolidWorks. 2. Go to the Mold Tools tab. 3. Click on 'Parting Line'. 4. Select the mold tool face. 5. Select the part faces. 6. Click OK to generate the parting line.
Example
This example shows how to create a parting line on a simple molded part with a flat mold tool face.
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1. Open a part with a draft suitable for molding. 2. Activate the Mold Tools tab (enable it if not visible). 3. Click 'Parting Line'. 4. Select the flat face of the mold tool (e.g., the base plate). 5. Select the side faces of the part that will be molded. 6. Confirm to generate the parting line, which appears as a highlighted edge where the mold halves separate.
Output
A highlighted line appears on the part showing the exact location where the mold will split.
Common Pitfalls
- Not enabling the Mold Tools tab before starting.
- Selecting incorrect faces for the mold tool or part, causing no or wrong parting lines.
- Ignoring draft angles, which can cause mold release issues.
- Trying to create a parting line on complex geometry without simplifying the mold tool.
Always verify the draft and face selections before confirming the parting line.
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Wrong way: 1. Select random faces not related to mold tool or part. 2. Click OK — no parting line or incorrect line appears. Right way: 1. Select the mold tool face clearly representing one mold half. 2. Select the correct part faces that interact with the mold. 3. Confirm to generate a valid parting line.
Quick Reference
| Step | Action | Tip |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Enable Mold Tools tab | Right-click tabs area to enable if hidden |
| 2 | Click Parting Line | Found under Mold Tools toolbar |
| 3 | Select Mold Tool Face | Choose the mold half face carefully |
| 4 | Select Part Faces | Select faces that contact the mold tool |
| 5 | Confirm | Check draft angles before confirming |
| 6 | Review Parting Line | Ensure line matches expected mold split |
Key Takeaways
Use the Mold Tools tab to access the Parting Line feature in SolidWorks.
Select the correct mold tool face and part faces to generate an accurate parting line.
Check draft angles to ensure proper mold release and avoid manufacturing issues.
Enable the Mold Tools tab if it is not visible before starting.
Review the generated parting line visually to confirm it matches the mold design intent.