Bridge tool vs production tool
A bridge tool gets you real molded parts before committing to a production tool. It is not a cheaper production tool; it is a different decision.
Comparison
| Bridge tool | Production tool | |
|---|---|---|
| Use | Pilots, trials, market test | Series production |
| Cavitation | 1–2 | 4–8 (typical) |
| Tool life | 50k–100k shots | 500k–1M shots |
| Lead time | 3–5 weeks | 5–8 weeks |
| Part cost | Higher per part | Lower at volume |
Values are typical; confirm against the part, material and tool design.
When a bridge tool makes sense
- The design is close but not frozen.
- You need parts for a pilot or field trial.
- You want to test the market before a production tool.
- A production tool is being built and you need bridge supply.
When to go straight to production
If the design is stable, the volume is known and the tool can be validated before launch, a production tool avoids paying twice. The decision should be based on the risk of design change, not only tool price.
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