Trial notes
Record material, machine, mold temperature, process settings and visible defects.
Sample Approval
Mold Trial and Sample Approval Guide for Injection Molding Buyers
T0 and T1 samples should create clarity, not confusion. This guide explains what to check and how to move from trial samples to production readiness.
Trial Control
A sample is only useful when both sides know what must be approved.
Early samples help identify filling, shrinkage, flash, warpage, assembly, dimension and cosmetic risks. Clear feedback prevents repeated sample loops and unclear responsibility.
We recommend agreeing on inspection priorities before sample approval: function, appearance, dimensions, material, assembly or packaging.
Approval Flow
How to review T0 / T1 samples
Visual review
Check flash, short shot, sink, burn marks, drag marks, weld lines and surface finish.
Dimension check
Measure critical dimensions and understand whether deviation is tool, process or drawing related.
Function test
Confirm assembly fit, snap, sealing, insert position, mating parts and performance requirements.
Correction plan
Agree on tool adjustment, process tuning or drawing revision before moving forward.
Approval Priorities
Separate must-fix issues from later optimization
A disciplined sample review prevents every comment from becoming an equal-priority mold change.
Function
Assembly, movement, sealing, load, inserts and mating interfaces.
Dimensions
Critical characteristics, datum setup, conditioning and measurement method.
Appearance
Flash, sink, weld lines, gate marks, texture, gloss, color and scratches.
Process Stability
Whether the sample was made within a practical repeatable process window.
Sample FAQ
Common T0/T1 approval questions
Should T0 samples be cosmetically perfect?
Not always. T0 often verifies mold action and filling first. Cosmetic expectations should be staged according to the project plan.
How should feedback be submitted?
Use numbered photos, drawing markups, dimension reports and a prioritized issue list with clear acceptance criteria.
What causes repeated sample rounds?
Unclear requirements, late design changes, uncontrolled material/process conditions or feedback that mixes mandatory and preference items.
When is production release appropriate?
When critical issues are closed, the process is stable, approval samples are identified and inspection and packaging requirements are confirmed.
Need help planning sample approval?
Send your drawing and quality expectations. We can suggest which approval points should be clarified before tooling.