Plastic injection mold design is a complex engineering discipline that transforms part design into a functional manufacturing system capable of producing high-quality components consistently and efficiently. The process begins with comprehensive analysis of the part geometry, identifying features that require special mold actions such as side-cores for undercuts, lifters for internal threads, or collapsible cores for deep undercuts. Mold designers select appropriate mold bases standardized by organizations like DME or HASCO, then engineer custom cavity and core inserts that define the part geometry. The feeding system design encompasses runners, gates, and sprue bushings, with choices between cold runners (which solidify with each cycle) and hot runners (which maintain material in molten state). Cooling system design is equally critical, with strategically placed channels ensuring uniform heat extraction to minimize cycle times and prevent warpage. Ejection system engineering includes ejector pins, sleeves, blades, and stripper plates, positioned to apply sufficient force without damaging the part. Venting design prevents air traps that can cause burning or incomplete filling, while alignment features like guide pins and interlocks maintain precise cavity alignment throughout the molding cycle. Material selection for mold components balances wear resistance, polishability, thermal conductivity, and cost, with options ranging from pre-hardened steels for moderate production to hardened tool steels for high-volume applications. Modern mold design extensively utilizes CAD/CAE software for 3D modeling, flow simulation, cooling analysis, and structural validation. The design process must also consider maintenance requirements, incorporating easily replaceable wear items and accessible water lines. Successful plastic injection mold design delivers a robust manufacturing system that produces dimensionally stable parts with minimal scrap while operating reliably over hundreds of thousands of cycles.