Overview
ISO 8406:2008 specifies standardized round locating elements and spacers for mould bases used in moulding tools. The standard defines the basic dimensions (in millimetres), material, hardness and designation rules for these components to ensure accurate location and repeatable alignment of two mould parts. This third edition (2008) includes an update to surface-texture indication in line with ISO 1302:2002.
Keywords: ISO 8406, mould bases, round locating elements, spacers, locating pins, tool steel, mould alignment
Key topics and requirements
- Dimensional standardization: ISO 8406 gives basic dimensions for round locating elements and matching spacers. Nominal diameters covered include common sizes such as 12, 16, 20, 25, 32, 40 and 50 mm, with associated length and mounting features specified for accurate interchangeability.
- Tolerances and surface condition: The document specifies dimensional tolerances and surface roughness values (expressed in micrometres) for reliable fit and function. Surface-texture notation was updated to align with ISO 1302:2002.
- Material and hardness: Locating elements and spacers shall be manufactured from tool steels in accordance with ISO 4957 and heat-treated to a hardness of (62 ± 2) HRC to provide wear resistance and long service life.
- Designation system: Components are designated using a concise format: e.g. Locating element ISO 8406-32/15 (where 32 is diameter in mm and 15 is the taper angle α in degrees).
- Illustrated mounting: The standard includes example mounting configurations (mating male/female parts and spacers) to guide correct installation in mould bases.
Applications and users
ISO 8406 is directly applicable to the design, manufacture and procurement of mould bases and associated tooling components. Typical users include:
- Toolmakers and mould designers - for selecting standardized locating elements and spacers to ensure accurate parting-line alignment.
- Tooling suppliers and component manufacturers - to produce interchangeable, quality-controlled locating pins and spacers.
- Injection moulding and compression moulding operations - to reduce setup time, prevent misalignment and extend tool life.
- Quality and procurement engineers - to specify correct part numbers, material grades (ISO 4957) and hardness requirements in technical documentation.
Practical benefits include improved interchangeability, faster tool assembly, reduced downtime and consistent mould performance.
Related standards
- ISO 4957 - Tool steels (material specification for locating elements)
- ISO 1302 - Indication of surface texture in technical product documentation (referenced for surface finish requirements)
For tooling projects requiring standardized, durable locating components, ISO 8406:2008 provides the technical rules needed to ensure repeatable, precise mould alignment.