Abstract: In one embodiment, a tool for forming an article in a molding operation has a tool body formed from a non-particulate material, with a particulate material bonded to the body. The body provides a forming surface for forming the article. The particulate material, or the particulate material and the tool body collectively provide a duct for conveying a fluid for transfer of heat with the forming surface. In another embodiment, the tool has a tool body formed from a non-particulate material with a cavity and the particulate material is disposed within the cavity. A heat transfer material is disposed in the cavity bonding the particulate material to the tool body. Methods for manufacturing such tools are also disclosed.

Abstract: A method 10 and a laminated tool 31 which is created by the method 10 and which is formed by the selective coupling or attachment of sectional members, such as members 14, 16. The formed tool 31 includes a finished surface 36 which is formed by the selective deposition of material 30 onto surface 22.

Abstract: A tool 10 and a method for creating the tool 10 which is comprised of several selectively coupled sectional members 12, 16, and which includes at least one cooling channel 14. In one embodiment, each sectional member 12, 16, which is to be used to form the at least one cooling channel 14, has respective indented channels 18, 20. Channel 18 of member 12 registers with a unique one of the channels 20 of member 16 to which member 12 is coupled, thereby forming the unique cooling passage 14. Other embodiments are disclosed which also provide desired cooling paths 14.

Abstract: A tool (10) having improved heat transfer characteristics and a method for cooling a tool (10) which is comprised of several selectively coupled sectional members (12–17) Each selected sectional members (16) include an outer contour (19), while each of the sectional members (12–17) includes at least one coolant passage (14). These coolant passages (14) cooperatively form a coolant manifold (18) which is a predetermined distance from contours (19). An amount of coolant 40 is passed through manifold (18) to cool tool (10).

Abstract: A tool (10) having improved heat transfer characteristics and a method for cooling a tool (10) which is comprised of several selectively coupled sectional members (12-17) Each selected sectional members (16) include an outer contour (19), while each of the sectional members (12-17) includes at least one coolant passage (14). These coolant passages (14) cooperatively form a coolant manifold (18) which is a predetermined distance from contours (19). An amount of coolant 40 is passed through manifold (18) to cool tool (10).

Abstract: A method 10 and a laminated tool 31 which is created by the method 10 and which is formed by the selective coupling or attachment of sectional members, such as members 14, 16. The formed tool 31 includes a finished surface 36 which is formed by the selective deposition of material 30 onto surface 22.