{"id":53855,"date":"2026-05-15T12:46:24","date_gmt":"2026-05-15T12:46:24","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/xtmim.com\/?page_id=53855"},"modified":"2026-05-15T12:46:27","modified_gmt":"2026-05-15T12:46:27","slug":"%e7%a9%b4%e3%80%81%e3%82%b9%e3%83%ad%e3%83%83%e3%83%88%e3%80%81%e3%82%a2%e3%83%b3%e3%83%80%e3%83%bc%e3%82%ab%e3%83%83%e3%83%88","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/xtmim.com\/ja\/mim-design-guide\/holes-slots-undercuts\/","title":{"rendered":"MIM\u306e\u7a74\u3001\u30b9\u30ed\u30c3\u30c8\u3001\u30a2\u30f3\u30c0\u30fc\u30ab\u30c3\u30c8"},"content":{"rendered":"\t\t<div data-elementor-type=\"wp-page\" data-elementor-id=\"53855\" class=\"elementor elementor-53855\" data-elementor-post-type=\"page\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-8cccff1 e-con-full e-flex cmsmasters-bg-hide-none cmsmasters-bg-hide-none cmsmasters-block-default e-con e-parent\" data-id=\"8cccff1\" data-element_type=\"container\" data-e-type=\"container\" data-settings=\"{&quot;background_background&quot;:&quot;classic&quot;}\">\n\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-980026d e-flex e-con-boxed cmsmasters-block-default e-con e-child\" data-id=\"980026d\" data-element_type=\"container\" data-e-type=\"container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"e-con-inner\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-d376fe2 cmsmasters-block-default cmsmasters-sticky-default elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"d376fe2\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h1 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">MIM Holes Slots Undercuts Design Guide<\/h1>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-4d8dc40 e-con-full e-flex cmsmasters-block-default e-con e-parent\" data-id=\"4d8dc40\" data-element_type=\"container\" data-e-type=\"container\">\n\t\t<div 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.xtmim-hsu-section h3{\r\n      font-size:20px;\r\n    }\r\n\r\n    .xtmim-hsu-page .xtmim-hsu-btn-row{\r\n      flex-direction:column;\r\n    }\r\n\r\n    .xtmim-hsu-page .xtmim-hsu-btn{\r\n      width:100%;\r\n      text-align:center;\r\n    }\r\n\r\n    .xtmim-hsu-page .xtmim-hsu-table th,\r\n    .xtmim-hsu-page .xtmim-hsu-table td{\r\n      padding:12px 14px;\r\n    }\r\n  }\r\n<\/style>\r\n\r\n<article class=\"xtmim-hsu-page\" itemscope itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/TechArticle\">\r\n  <div class=\"xtmim-hsu-wrap\">\r\n\r\n    <section class=\"xtmim-hsu-hero\" aria-label=\"MIM holes slots and undercuts design guide introduction\">\r\n      <p class=\"xtmim-hsu-eyebrow\">MIM Design Guide \u00b7 Feature-Level DFM<\/p>\r\n      <div class=\"xtmim-hsu-title\" itemprop=\"headline\">MIM Holes, Slots and Undercuts Design Guide<\/div>\r\n      <p class=\"xtmim-hsu-lead\" itemprop=\"description\">\r\n        MIM can mold many holes, slots and undercuts that would be difficult or costly to machine from solid metal. The design decision is not simply \u201ccan it be formed?\u201d but whether the feature can be filled, ejected, debound, sintered, inspected and repeated in production. Hole direction, slot width, undercut position, core pin support, slide motion, parting line location and flash-sensitive surfaces all affect risk. A feature that looks simple in CAD may require a fragile core pin, side action, tight shutoff surface or post-sintering machining. This guide helps product engineers and sourcing teams screen holes, slots and undercuts before tooling, so high-risk features can be redesigned, relaxed or moved into a secondary operation when needed.\r\n      <\/p>\r\n\r\n      <div class=\"xtmim-hsu-hero-grid\">\r\n        <div class=\"xtmim-hsu-quick-card\">\r\n          <h2>Engineering Summary<\/h2>\r\n          <p>\r\n            Use this page to review whether through holes, blind holes, side holes, long slots and undercuts are suitable for direct MIM molding, require tooling review, or should be redesigned before mold manufacturing.\r\n          <\/p>\r\n          <p class=\"xtmim-hsu-small\">\r\n            This is a feature-level page within the <a href=\"https:\/\/xtmim.com\/mim-design-guide\/\">MIM Design Guide<\/a>. For broader design context, see <a href=\"https:\/\/xtmim.com\/mim-design-guide\/part-design\/\">MIM part design<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/xtmim.com\/mim-design-guide\/wall-thickness\/\">MIM wall thickness design<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/xtmim.com\/mim-design-guide\/mold-design\/\">MIM mold design<\/a> and <a href=\"https:\/\/xtmim.com\/mim-design-guide\/mim-tolerances\/\">MIM tolerances<\/a>.\r\n          <\/p>\r\n        <\/div>\r\n\r\n        <div class=\"xtmim-hsu-cta-box\">\r\n          <div>\r\n            <h2>Need feature-level DFM review?<\/h2>\r\n            <p>\r\n              Send drawings, 3D CAD files, material requirements, key tolerances and annual volume before tooling so holes, slots and undercuts can be reviewed against mold motion, flash risk and sintering stability.\r\n            <\/p>\r\n          <\/div>\r\n          <div class=\"xtmim-hsu-btn-row\">\r\n            <a class=\"xtmim-hsu-btn\" href=\"https:\/\/xtmim.com\/contact-us\/\">Submit Your Drawing<\/a>\r\n          <\/div>\r\n        <\/div>\r\n      <\/div>\r\n    <\/section>\r\n\r\n    <figure class=\"xtmim-hsu-figure\">\r\n      <img fetchpriority=\"high\" src=\"https:\/\/xtmim.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/01-mim-holes-slots-undercuts-overview.webp\" alt=\"MIM part design overview showing through holes, blind holes, side holes, slots and undercuts as DFM review points\" title=\"01 MIM Holes Slots Undercuts Overview\" width=\"1672\" height=\"941\" loading=\"eager\" fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\">\r\n      <figcaption>Holes, slots and undercuts can often be molded in MIM parts, but each feature must be reviewed for tooling motion, core pin support, ejection, flash risk and sintering stability.<\/figcaption>\r\n      <p class=\"xtmim-hsu-figure-note\"><strong>Figure note:<\/strong> A molded feature is not only a CAD shape. It creates decisions about mold motion, shutoff surfaces, shrinkage control, green part handling and inspection access.<\/p>\r\n    <\/figure>\r\n\r\n    <nav class=\"xtmim-hsu-toc\" aria-label=\"Article contents\">\r\n      <p class=\"xtmim-hsu-toc-title\">Article Navigation<\/p>\r\n      <div class=\"xtmim-hsu-toc-grid\">\r\n        <a href=\"#can-mim-produce\">Can MIM produce these features?<\/a>\r\n        <a href=\"#hole-direction\">Hole direction and tooling<\/a>\r\n        <a href=\"#slot-design\">Slot design risks<\/a>\r\n        <a href=\"#undercuts\">Undercuts in MIM design<\/a>\r\n        <a href=\"#tooling-risk\">Core pins, slides and flash<\/a>\r\n        <a href=\"#sintering-risk\">Filling, debinding and sintering<\/a>\r\n        <a href=\"#inspection-checks\">Inspection checks<\/a>\r\n        <a href=\"#dfm-matrix\">DFM review matrix<\/a>\r\n        <a href=\"#molded-machined\">Molded vs machined decision<\/a>\r\n        <a href=\"#redesign\">When to redesign<\/a>\r\n        <a href=\"#cost-impact\">Cost impact<\/a>\r\n        <a href=\"#dfm-review\">What to provide<\/a>\r\n        <a href=\"#faq\">FAQ<\/a>\r\n        <a href=\"#project-review\">Project review CTA<\/a>\r\n      <\/div>\r\n    <\/nav>\r\n\r\n    <section class=\"xtmim-hsu-section\" id=\"can-mim-produce\">\r\n      <h2>Can MIM Produce Holes, Slots and Undercuts?<\/h2>\r\n      <p>\r\n        Yes, MIM can produce many holes, slots and undercuts directly in the molded green part. These features are one reason MIM is selected for small, complex precision metal parts. However, each feature must be judged by tooling motion, core pin stability, feedstock flow, ejection path, shrinkage behavior and inspection requirements.\r\n      <\/p>\r\n      <p>\r\n        MIMA design guidance explains that cored holes can reduce cross sections, support more uniform wall thickness and reduce or eliminate machining operations. It also notes that the preferred hole direction is parallel to mold opening and perpendicular to the parting plane, which is why feature orientation matters before tooling.\r\n        <a href=\"https:\/\/www.mimaweb.org\/DesignCenter\/ComplexDesignswithMIM.aspx\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">See MIMA complex design guidance<\/a>.\r\n      <\/p>\r\n\r\n      <div class=\"xtmim-hsu-table-wrap\">\r\n        <table class=\"xtmim-hsu-table\">\r\n          <thead>\r\n            <tr>\r\n              <th>Feature<\/th>\r\n              <th>MIM Suitability<\/th>\r\n              <th>Main Design Risk<\/th>\r\n              <th>DFM Review Focus<\/th>\r\n            <\/tr>\r\n          <\/thead>\r\n          <tbody>\r\n            <tr>\r\n              <td><span class=\"xtmim-hsu-pill\">Through holes<\/span><\/td>\r\n              <td>Usually suitable<\/td>\r\n              <td>Core pin deflection, flash, hole distortion<\/td>\r\n              <td>Hole direction, depth, diameter and tolerance<\/td>\r\n            <\/tr>\r\n            <tr>\r\n              <td><span class=\"xtmim-hsu-pill\">Blind holes<\/span><\/td>\r\n              <td>Possible but more sensitive<\/td>\r\n              <td>Unsupported core pin, trapped geometry, ejection risk<\/td>\r\n              <td>Depth-to-diameter ratio and core pin support<\/td>\r\n            <\/tr>\r\n            <tr>\r\n              <td><span class=\"xtmim-hsu-pill\">Side holes<\/span><\/td>\r\n              <td>Possible with tooling review<\/td>\r\n              <td>Slides, side actions, parting line flash<\/td>\r\n              <td>Mold motion and shutoff surface<\/td>\r\n            <\/tr>\r\n            <tr>\r\n              <td><span class=\"xtmim-hsu-pill\">Narrow slots<\/span><\/td>\r\n              <td>Possible with limits<\/td>\r\n              <td>Filling difficulty, flash, weak tool steel<\/td>\r\n              <td>Slot width, depth and edge condition<\/td>\r\n            <\/tr>\r\n            <tr>\r\n              <td><span class=\"xtmim-hsu-pill\">Long slots<\/span><\/td>\r\n              <td>Risk-sensitive<\/td>\r\n              <td>Sintering distortion, wall imbalance<\/td>\r\n              <td>Wall thickness, support and shrinkage path<\/td>\r\n            <\/tr>\r\n            <tr>\r\n              <td><span class=\"xtmim-hsu-pill\">External undercuts<\/span><\/td>\r\n              <td>Often possible<\/td>\r\n              <td>Slide action, parting line mark, flash<\/td>\r\n              <td>Ejection direction and split line<\/td>\r\n            <\/tr>\r\n            <tr>\r\n              <td><span class=\"xtmim-hsu-pill xtmim-hsu-pill-risk\">Internal undercuts<\/span><\/td>\r\n              <td>High-risk<\/td>\r\n              <td>Complex tooling, collapsible core, flash<\/td>\r\n              <td>Redesign, split feature or secondary operation<\/td>\r\n            <\/tr>\r\n          <\/tbody>\r\n        <\/table>\r\n      <\/div>\r\n\r\n      <figure class=\"xtmim-hsu-figure\">\r\n        <img loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/xtmim.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/02-mim-feature-suitability-matrix.webp\" alt=\"MIM feature suitability matrix comparing through holes, blind holes, side holes, long slots and internal undercuts by DFM risk level\" title=\"02 MIM Feature Suitability Matrix\" width=\"1672\" height=\"941\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\">\r\n        <figcaption>A feature suitability matrix helps engineers separate lower-risk molded features from features that require tooling, tolerance or secondary machining review.<\/figcaption>\r\n        <p class=\"xtmim-hsu-figure-note\"><strong>Core conclusion:<\/strong> Not every hole, slot or undercut has the same MIM risk level. Direction, depth, access, function and tolerance determine the review priority.<\/p>\r\n      <\/figure>\r\n\r\n      <p>\r\n        From a design review perspective, the safest features usually follow the mold opening direction, have enough surrounding material, avoid sharp transitions and do not create thin unsupported tool steel. The highest-risk features are deep small holes, long narrow slots and internal undercuts that block normal ejection.\r\n      <\/p>\r\n    <\/section>\r\n\r\n    <section class=\"xtmim-hsu-section\" id=\"hole-direction\">\r\n      <h2>How Hole Direction Affects MIM Tooling<\/h2>\r\n      <p>\r\n        Hole direction is one of the first checks in a MIM DFM review. A hole is not only a geometry feature; it usually implies a core pin, shutoff surface, slide or post-sintering machining decision.\r\n      <\/p>\r\n\r\n      <h3>Holes Aligned with the Mold Opening Direction<\/h3>\r\n      <p>\r\n        Holes aligned with the mold opening direction are usually easier to mold than side holes or angled holes. The core pin can be supported more directly, the mold structure is simpler and ejection is easier to manage. This does not mean every vertical hole is automatically low risk. A very small, very deep or tight-tolerance hole can still create core pin deflection, wear or dimensional variation.\r\n      <\/p>\r\n      <p>\r\n        In practice, a product engineer should mark which holes are functional and which are non-critical. A cosmetic vent hole, weight-reduction hole and precision assembly hole should not be treated the same way. Critical holes may require tighter inspection, secondary sizing or machining after sintering. For a deeper tolerance strategy, review <a href=\"https:\/\/xtmim.com\/mim-design-guide\/mim-tolerances\/\">MIM tolerances<\/a>.\r\n      <\/p>\r\n\r\n      <h3>Side Holes and Cross Holes<\/h3>\r\n      <p>\r\n        Side holes and cross holes are possible in MIM, but they often require slides or side actions. This changes the mold from a simpler open-close tool into a more complex tool with moving elements. The additional shutoff surfaces can become flash-sensitive areas, especially when the hole is near a visible surface, sealing surface or assembly interface.\r\n      <\/p>\r\n      <p>\r\n        A common mistake is to treat side holes as \u201cfree complexity\u201d because MIM can form complex geometry. In production, side holes should be reviewed for their actual function. If the hole only supports assembly clearance, it may be redesigned. If it is a critical alignment or fluid passage feature, the supplier may need to review whether direct molding, post-sintering drilling or another process sequence is more stable. Related tooling issues are covered more fully in <a href=\"https:\/\/xtmim.com\/mim-design-guide\/mold-design\/\">MIM mold design<\/a>.\r\n      <\/p>\r\n\r\n      <h3>Deep or Small Holes<\/h3>\r\n      <p>\r\n        Deep or small holes create a different risk. The core pin may become long and slender, which can lead to pin deflection, wear, breakage or hole position variation. Blind holes are usually more sensitive than through holes because the core pin may be supported from only one side.\r\n      <\/p>\r\n      <p>\r\n        The practical limit depends on material, feedstock behavior, hole depth, hole diameter, mold layout and tolerance requirement. Instead of applying one fixed rule to all projects, the better approach is to identify the hole function and ask whether it must be molded directly. For tight-tolerance holes, post-sintering machining may be more reliable than forcing the hole to be fully net-shaped in the mold.\r\n      <\/p>\r\n    <\/section>\r\n\r\n    <section class=\"xtmim-hsu-section\" id=\"slot-design\">\r\n      <h2>Slot Design Risks in MIM Parts<\/h2>\r\n      <p>\r\n        Slots can reduce weight, create clearance, support assembly functions and help balance section thickness. However, a slot in a MIM part also creates tool steel, filling, flash and shrinkage questions. CAD shape alone does not show whether the matching mold steel will be strong enough for repeat production.\r\n      <\/p>\r\n\r\n      <h3>Open Slots vs Closed Slots<\/h3>\r\n      <p>\r\n        Open slots are usually easier to mold and inspect than deep enclosed slots. Feedstock has a clearer flow path, the tool structure can be more robust and ejection is often less complicated. Closed, deep or narrow slots are more sensitive because they may require thin mold steel, create flow hesitation or increase flash risk at shutoff areas.\r\n      <\/p>\r\n      <p>\r\n        Slot ends should avoid sharp internal corners where possible. Rounded slot ends and smooth transitions help reduce local stress concentration, improve filling behavior and reduce the risk of cracking during green part handling, debinding or sintering. Slot design should be reviewed together with <a href=\"https:\/\/xtmim.com\/mim-design-guide\/wall-thickness\/\">MIM wall thickness design<\/a>.\r\n      <\/p>\r\n\r\n      <h3>Narrow Slots and Weak Tool Steel Conditions<\/h3>\r\n      <p>\r\n        A slot in the part usually means a raised steel feature in the mold. When the slot is very narrow and deep, the corresponding tool steel may be thin and vulnerable to wear, damage or deflection. This is one of the most overlooked issues in CAD-driven design.\r\n      <\/p>\r\n      <p>\r\n        The question is not only whether the slot can be molded once. The real question is whether the slot can be produced consistently over the required production volume without excessive tool maintenance or dimensional variation. If a slot is narrow, deep and located near a critical surface, it should be reviewed before tooling release.\r\n      <\/p>\r\n\r\n      <h3>Slots Near Thin Walls or Functional Surfaces<\/h3>\r\n      <p>\r\n        Slots near thin walls, sealing areas, cosmetic surfaces or precision assembly features need extra attention. A slot can locally interrupt wall thickness, change feedstock flow, create uneven shrinkage or make a thin section more likely to distort during sintering.\r\n      <\/p>\r\n      <p>\r\n        If the slot is functional, its width, depth, end radius and inspection method should be defined clearly. If the slot is only for weight reduction or appearance, it may be safer to adjust its geometry to protect mold strength and production consistency.\r\n      <\/p>\r\n    <\/section>\r\n\r\n    <section class=\"xtmim-hsu-section\" id=\"undercuts\">\r\n      <h2>Undercuts in MIM Design: Useful but Not Always Simple<\/h2>\r\n      <p>\r\n        Undercuts are one of the features that make MIM attractive for complex metal parts. Locking details, snap features, relief grooves, side recesses and retaining forms may be molded directly when the tooling path allows it. But undercuts are not automatically low-cost features. They must be reviewed against ejection direction, slide movement, parting line location, flash risk and production stability.\r\n      <\/p>\r\n      <p>\r\n        PIM International describes MIM design freedom as including blind and through holes, angled holes, undercuts, grooves, slots, external or internal threads, knurled surfaces and molded identification features. This supports the use of MIM for complex local features, but final feasibility still depends on part geometry and tooling review.\r\n        <a href=\"https:\/\/www.pim-international.com\/metal-injection-molding\/optimising-your-design-for-mim-production\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Read the PIM International overview<\/a>.\r\n      <\/p>\r\n\r\n      <h3>When Undercuts Are Suitable for MIM<\/h3>\r\n      <p>\r\n        Undercuts are more suitable when they are accessible, shallow, located near a practical parting line and do not require multiple complex mold movements. External undercuts are usually easier to manage than hidden internal undercuts because they can often be formed with split mold surfaces or side actions.\r\n      <\/p>\r\n      <p>\r\n        MIM can be a strong option when the undercut replaces multiple machining steps or reduces assembly complexity. This is especially relevant for small precision parts where CNC access is limited and the feature repeats across production volume.\r\n      <\/p>\r\n\r\n      <h3>When Undercuts Increase Tooling Risk<\/h3>\r\n      <p>\r\n        Undercuts increase risk when they block normal ejection, require complex side action, create tight shutoff surfaces or sit on a critical functional surface. These features can increase tooling cost, reduce molding speed, add maintenance points and create flash-sensitive areas.\r\n      <\/p>\r\n\r\n      <h3>When to Redesign an Undercut<\/h3>\r\n      <p>\r\n        An undercut should be redesigned or reviewed in more detail when it prevents straight ejection, requires several mold movements, creates a hidden shutoff surface, is located on a sealing or precision assembly surface, demands tight tolerance without practical inspection access, creates a fragile tool condition or can be replaced by an open groove, split feature or post-sintering machining step.\r\n      <\/p>\r\n      <p>\r\n        The best redesign is not always to remove the undercut. Sometimes a small change in opening direction, radius, relief angle or feature position can reduce tooling risk while keeping the part function.\r\n      <\/p>\r\n    <\/section>\r\n\r\n    <section class=\"xtmim-hsu-section\" id=\"tooling-risk\">\r\n      <h2>Core Pins, Slides and Flash Risk Around Molded Features<\/h2>\r\n      <p>\r\n        Holes, slots and undercuts become production risks when they create unstable tooling conditions. Core pins, slides, inserts and parting lines are useful tools, but every added tooling element creates possible variation. This section explains the feature-level risk only; complete mold architecture belongs in the <a href=\"https:\/\/xtmim.com\/mim-design-guide\/mold-design\/\">MIM mold design<\/a> review.\r\n      <\/p>\r\n\r\n      <div class=\"xtmim-hsu-table-wrap\">\r\n        <table class=\"xtmim-hsu-table\">\r\n          <thead>\r\n            <tr>\r\n              <th>Tooling Element<\/th>\r\n              <th>Used For<\/th>\r\n              <th>Main Risk<\/th>\r\n              <th>DFM Question<\/th>\r\n            <\/tr>\r\n          <\/thead>\r\n          <tbody>\r\n            <tr>\r\n              <td>Core pin<\/td>\r\n              <td>Through holes, blind holes, internal forms<\/td>\r\n              <td>Deflection, wear, breakage, hole shift<\/td>\r\n              <td>Is the hole too deep, too small or too critical?<\/td>\r\n            <\/tr>\r\n            <tr>\r\n              <td>Slide \/ side action<\/td>\r\n              <td>Side holes, external undercuts<\/td>\r\n              <td>Flash, maintenance, cost, timing<\/td>\r\n              <td>Can the feature be aligned with mold opening or redesigned?<\/td>\r\n            <\/tr>\r\n            <tr>\r\n              <td>Insert<\/td>\r\n              <td>Local slot or precision detail<\/td>\r\n              <td>Wear, mismatch, replacement risk<\/td>\r\n              <td>Is the feature critical enough to justify an insert?<\/td>\r\n            <\/tr>\r\n            <tr>\r\n              <td>Parting line<\/td>\r\n              <td>Split features, external forms<\/td>\r\n              <td>Witness line, flash, cosmetic mark<\/td>\r\n              <td>Is it on a functional or visible surface?<\/td>\r\n            <\/tr>\r\n            <tr>\r\n              <td>Shutoff surface<\/td>\r\n              <td>Side openings, undercuts, slot closures<\/td>\r\n              <td>Flash and wear<\/td>\r\n              <td>Can the shutoff be made more robust?<\/td>\r\n            <\/tr>\r\n          <\/tbody>\r\n        <\/table>\r\n      <\/div>\r\n\r\n      <figure class=\"xtmim-hsu-figure\">\r\n        <img loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/xtmim.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/03-core-pin-slide-risk-map.webp\" alt=\"MIM molded feature risk map showing vertical core pins, side slides, parting lines and flash-sensitive edges\" title=\"03 Core Pin Slide Risk Map\" width=\"1672\" height=\"941\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\">\r\n        <figcaption>Holes and undercuts often translate into core pins, slides, shutoff surfaces and parting lines, which are the real sources of tooling complexity and flash risk.<\/figcaption>\r\n        <p class=\"xtmim-hsu-figure-note\"><strong>Core conclusion:<\/strong> The risk of a molded feature usually comes from the tooling action needed to create it, not from the feature name itself.<\/p>\r\n      <\/figure>\r\n\r\n      <p>\r\n        For a deeper quality discussion around mold-related risks, see <a href=\"https:\/\/xtmim.com\/blogs\/how-mold-design-affects-part-quality-in-mim\/\">how mold design affects MIM part quality<\/a>.\r\n      <\/p>\r\n\r\n      <div class=\"xtmim-hsu-scenario\">\r\n        <p class=\"xtmim-hsu-scenario-title\">Composite Field Scenario for Engineering Training: Flash Around a Side Hole<\/p>\r\n        <dl>\r\n          <dt>What problem occurred<\/dt>\r\n          <dd>A small MIM housing had a side hole near a cosmetic outer surface. After trial molding, flash appeared around the side opening and required extra removal.<\/dd>\r\n          <dt>Why it happened<\/dt>\r\n          <dd>The side hole required a slide. The slide shutoff surface was close to a visible surface, and the local geometry gave limited support for a robust shutoff.<\/dd>\r\n          <dt>Real system cause<\/dt>\r\n          <dd>The design placed a flash-sensitive feature in a location where tooling movement and cosmetic expectations conflicted.<\/dd>\r\n          <dt>How it was corrected<\/dt>\r\n          <dd>The hole position was adjusted, the local surface was relieved, and the drawing clarified which surface was cosmetic and which surface was functional.<\/dd>\r\n          <dt>How to prevent recurrence<\/dt>\r\n          <dd>Side holes should be reviewed with parting line, slide direction, shutoff condition and surface classification before tooling approval.<\/dd>\r\n        <\/dl>\r\n      <\/div>\r\n    <\/section>\r\n\r\n    <section class=\"xtmim-hsu-section\" id=\"sintering-risk\">\r\n      <h2>How Holes, Slots and Undercuts Affect Filling, Debinding and Sintering<\/h2>\r\n      <p>\r\n        Feature design affects more than the mold. In MIM, fine metal powder and binder are formed into feedstock, the feedstock must fill the cavity, the green part must survive handling, binder must be removed during debinding, and the part must shrink during sintering without unacceptable distortion. Local features can influence each stage.\r\n      <\/p>\r\n\r\n      <h3>Filling and Short Shot Risk<\/h3>\r\n      <p>\r\n        Narrow slots, thin sections, deep pockets and complex internal geometry can interrupt feedstock flow. A feature near the end of the flow path may increase short shot or knit line risk. This does not mean the feature is impossible, but it should be reviewed with gate location and filling balance. Related flow-path decisions belong in <a href=\"https:\/\/xtmim.com\/mim-design-guide\/gate-design\/\">MIM gate design<\/a>.\r\n      <\/p>\r\n\r\n      <h3>Debinding and Section Change Risk<\/h3>\r\n      <p>\r\n        Holes and slots can help reduce thick sections and improve wall balance. This can be beneficial because thick and uneven sections can make debinding and sintering more difficult. However, a slot that creates abrupt thickness changes can also introduce local stress, cracking risk or shrinkage imbalance.\r\n      <\/p>\r\n      <p>\r\n        The design target is not simply \u201cadd holes to reduce mass.\u201d The better target is controlled and gradual section balance that supports molding, green part handling, debinding and sintering stability.\r\n      <\/p>\r\n\r\n      <h3>Sintering Distortion Around Slots and Undercuts<\/h3>\r\n      <p>\r\n        Long slots, open frames, thin bridges and unsupported undercut areas may distort during sintering. The part shrinks significantly during sintering, and the geometry must be able to move predictably. Unsupported cantilever-like sections, long open slots and uneven wall sections may need <a href=\"https:\/\/xtmim.com\/mim-design-guide\/sintering-supports\/\">MIM sintering support design<\/a> review.\r\n      <\/p>\r\n\r\n      <figure class=\"xtmim-hsu-figure\">\r\n        <img loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/xtmim.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/04-mim-slot-distortion-comparison.webp\" alt=\"MIM slot distortion comparison showing balanced slot design versus long narrow slot shrinkage distortion risk after sintering\" title=\"04 MIM Slot Distortion Comparison\" width=\"1672\" height=\"941\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\">\r\n        <figcaption>Long narrow slots can pass molding but still create shrinkage imbalance, weak sections or distortion risk during sintering.<\/figcaption>\r\n        <p class=\"xtmim-hsu-figure-note\"><strong>Core conclusion:<\/strong> A slot is not only a clearance feature; it changes wall balance, shrinkage behavior and support requirements during sintering.<\/p>\r\n      <\/figure>\r\n\r\n      <div class=\"xtmim-hsu-scenario\">\r\n        <p class=\"xtmim-hsu-scenario-title\">Composite Field Scenario for Engineering Training: Long Slot Distortion After Sintering<\/p>\r\n        <dl>\r\n          <dt>What problem occurred<\/dt>\r\n          <dd>A thin MIM part included a long narrow slot near one edge. The molded green part looked acceptable, but the sintered part showed local distortion near the slot.<\/dd>\r\n          <dt>Why it happened<\/dt>\r\n          <dd>The slot created an unbalanced section. During sintering shrinkage, one side of the structure had less support and moved differently from the surrounding material.<\/dd>\r\n          <dt>Real system cause<\/dt>\r\n          <dd>The design treated the slot as a simple clearance feature, but it changed local wall balance and sintering behavior.<\/dd>\r\n          <dt>How it was corrected<\/dt>\r\n          <dd>The slot end radius was increased, the local wall transition was softened, and the part orientation during sintering was reviewed.<\/dd>\r\n          <dt>How to prevent recurrence<\/dt>\r\n          <dd>Long slots should be checked together with wall thickness, shrinkage path and sintering support before tooling is finalized.<\/dd>\r\n        <\/dl>\r\n      <\/div>\r\n\r\n      <p>\r\n        For more process context, see <a href=\"https:\/\/xtmim.com\/blogs\/debinding-and-sintering-affect-part-quality-in-mim\/\">how debinding and sintering affect MIM part quality<\/a>.\r\n      <\/p>\r\n    <\/section>\r\n\r\n    <section class=\"xtmim-hsu-section\" id=\"inspection-checks\">\r\n      <h2>Inspection Checks for Molded Holes, Slots and Undercuts<\/h2>\r\n      <p>\r\n        A feature should not be judged only by whether it appears in the sintered part. For production use, the drawing should define which holes, slots or undercuts are functional, which are cosmetic, which are clearance-only, and which require dimensional verification. The inspection plan may vary by part size, feature geometry, tolerance class and application risk.\r\n      <\/p>\r\n\r\n      <div class=\"xtmim-hsu-table-wrap\">\r\n        <table class=\"xtmim-hsu-table\">\r\n          <thead>\r\n            <tr>\r\n              <th>Feature Area<\/th>\r\n              <th>Typical Inspection Focus<\/th>\r\n              <th>Possible Check Method<\/th>\r\n              <th>Why It Matters<\/th>\r\n            <\/tr>\r\n          <\/thead>\r\n          <tbody>\r\n            <tr>\r\n              <td>Through holes<\/td>\r\n              <td>Diameter, position, roundness and blockage<\/td>\r\n              <td>Pin gauge, optical measurement or CMM based on tolerance requirement<\/td>\r\n              <td>Assembly pins, fasteners or shafts may fail if the hole shifts or shrinks unevenly.<\/td>\r\n            <\/tr>\r\n            <tr>\r\n              <td>Blind holes<\/td>\r\n              <td>Depth, bottom condition and usable entry<\/td>\r\n              <td>Depth gauge, optical inspection or section review when required<\/td>\r\n              <td>Unsupported core pins and trapped geometry can create variation or incomplete functional depth.<\/td>\r\n            <\/tr>\r\n            <tr>\r\n              <td>Side holes and undercuts<\/td>\r\n              <td>Flash, parting line marks, shutoff wear and opening condition<\/td>\r\n              <td>Visual inspection, magnification, go\/no-go gauge or functional fit check<\/td>\r\n              <td>Slide and shutoff areas can create flash that affects assembly, sealing or appearance.<\/td>\r\n            <\/tr>\r\n            <tr>\r\n              <td>Long slots<\/td>\r\n              <td>Slot width, straightness, parallelism and local distortion<\/td>\r\n              <td>Optical measurement, fixture check or CMM for critical dimensions<\/td>\r\n              <td>Slots may distort during sintering even when green part molding looks acceptable.<\/td>\r\n            <\/tr>\r\n            <tr>\r\n              <td>Cosmetic or sealing surfaces near features<\/td>\r\n              <td>Witness lines, burrs, flash removal marks and surface interruption<\/td>\r\n              <td>Visual standard, surface comparison or application-specific inspection<\/td>\r\n              <td>Feature location can move tooling marks onto surfaces that buyers expect to remain clean.<\/td>\r\n            <\/tr>\r\n            <tr>\r\n              <td>Critical mating features<\/td>\r\n              <td>Functional fit, alignment and repeatability<\/td>\r\n              <td>Assembly fixture, go\/no-go gauge or defined dimensional inspection<\/td>\r\n              <td>Functional dimensions should be identified before RFQ so molded and machined tolerances are not confused.<\/td>\r\n            <\/tr>\r\n          <\/tbody>\r\n        <\/table>\r\n      <\/div>\r\n\r\n      <div class=\"xtmim-hsu-note\">\r\n        <strong>Inspection note:<\/strong> The exact inspection method should be confirmed by drawing requirements, tolerance level, feature function and production volume. Avoid assuming that every molded hole or slot must use the same inspection method.\r\n      <\/div>\r\n    <\/section>\r\n\r\n    <section class=\"xtmim-hsu-section\" id=\"dfm-matrix\">\r\n      <h2>DFM Review Matrix for Holes, Slots and Undercuts<\/h2>\r\n      <p>\r\n        Use this matrix as an early design screen. It does not replace project-specific DFM review, but it helps identify which features need attention before tooling.\r\n      <\/p>\r\n\r\n      <div class=\"xtmim-hsu-table-wrap\">\r\n        <table class=\"xtmim-hsu-table\">\r\n          <thead>\r\n            <tr>\r\n              <th>Design Feature<\/th>\r\n              <th>Lower-Risk Design<\/th>\r\n              <th>Higher-Risk Design<\/th>\r\n              <th>Review Before Tooling<\/th>\r\n            <\/tr>\r\n          <\/thead>\r\n          <tbody>\r\n            <tr>\r\n              <td>Through hole<\/td>\r\n              <td>Short, aligned with mold opening<\/td>\r\n              <td>Very deep or very small<\/td>\r\n              <td>Core pin stability and hole tolerance<\/td>\r\n            <\/tr>\r\n            <tr>\r\n              <td>Blind hole<\/td>\r\n              <td>Shallow and accessible<\/td>\r\n              <td>Deep blind hole<\/td>\r\n              <td>Pin support, ejection and cleaning access<\/td>\r\n            <\/tr>\r\n            <tr>\r\n              <td>Side hole<\/td>\r\n              <td>Non-critical, low-tolerance, accessible<\/td>\r\n              <td>Tight-tolerance side hole<\/td>\r\n              <td>Slide action or secondary drilling<\/td>\r\n            <\/tr>\r\n            <tr>\r\n              <td>Cross hole<\/td>\r\n              <td>Simple intersection with clear access<\/td>\r\n              <td>Multiple intersecting holes<\/td>\r\n              <td>Tooling sequence and flash control<\/td>\r\n            <\/tr>\r\n            <tr>\r\n              <td>Long slot<\/td>\r\n              <td>Moderate width, rounded ends<\/td>\r\n              <td>Narrow, deep and long<\/td>\r\n              <td>Filling balance and sintering distortion<\/td>\r\n            <\/tr>\r\n            <tr>\r\n              <td>Slot near edge<\/td>\r\n              <td>Enough surrounding stock<\/td>\r\n              <td>Thin edge breakout risk<\/td>\r\n              <td>Wall balance and tool steel condition<\/td>\r\n            <\/tr>\r\n            <tr>\r\n              <td>External undercut<\/td>\r\n              <td>Accessible and split-line friendly<\/td>\r\n              <td>Large locking geometry<\/td>\r\n              <td>Slide action and parting line location<\/td>\r\n            <\/tr>\r\n            <tr>\r\n              <td>Internal undercut<\/td>\r\n              <td>Simple relief form<\/td>\r\n              <td>Hidden locking feature<\/td>\r\n              <td>Redesign, collapsible core or machining<\/td>\r\n            <\/tr>\r\n            <tr>\r\n              <td>Feature on cosmetic surface<\/td>\r\n              <td>Hidden or non-critical area<\/td>\r\n              <td>Visible flash-sensitive surface<\/td>\r\n              <td>Parting line and finishing plan<\/td>\r\n            <\/tr>\r\n            <tr>\r\n              <td>Feature with tight tolerance<\/td>\r\n              <td>Machining allowance available<\/td>\r\n              <td>Molded-only requirement<\/td>\r\n              <td>Inspection method and tolerance strategy<\/td>\r\n            <\/tr>\r\n          <\/tbody>\r\n        <\/table>\r\n      <\/div>\r\n    <\/section>\r\n\r\n    <section class=\"xtmim-hsu-section\" id=\"molded-machined\">\r\n      <h2>Molded Feature vs Secondary Machining Decision Table<\/h2>\r\n      <p>\r\n        Many MIM projects combine molded geometry with selective secondary operations. The goal is not to machine every precision feature, but to decide which features are stable enough to mold directly and which features need machining, sizing, drilling, tapping or functional verification after sintering.\r\n      <\/p>\r\n\r\n      <div class=\"xtmim-hsu-table-wrap\">\r\n        <table class=\"xtmim-hsu-table\">\r\n          <thead>\r\n            <tr>\r\n              <th>Decision Option<\/th>\r\n              <th>Usually Suitable For<\/th>\r\n              <th>Use Caution When<\/th>\r\n              <th>Engineering Decision<\/th>\r\n            <\/tr>\r\n          <\/thead>\r\n          <tbody>\r\n            <tr>\r\n              <td>Mold directly<\/td>\r\n              <td>Non-critical through holes, open slots, relief features and accessible external forms<\/td>\r\n              <td>The feature is deep, narrow, tight-tolerance or near a cosmetic \/ sealing surface<\/td>\r\n              <td>Good option when tooling is robust and inspection requirements are moderate.<\/td>\r\n            <\/tr>\r\n            <tr>\r\n              <td>Mold then inspect<\/td>\r\n              <td>Functional clearance holes, assembly slots and non-sealing undercuts<\/td>\r\n              <td>The feature affects fit, alignment or repeatability<\/td>\r\n              <td>Define inspection method and acceptance criteria before production approval.<\/td>\r\n            <\/tr>\r\n            <tr>\r\n              <td>Mold then size or calibrate<\/td>\r\n              <td>Features that need improved repeatability but do not require full machining<\/td>\r\n              <td>The geometry does not support stable post-sintering correction<\/td>\r\n              <td>Review whether sizing can reach the functional target without damaging the part.<\/td>\r\n            <\/tr>\r\n            <tr>\r\n              <td>Secondary drilling or reaming<\/td>\r\n              <td>Critical positioning holes, precision bores or features with tight diameter control<\/td>\r\n              <td>The hole is difficult to locate or hold after sintering<\/td>\r\n              <td>Often safer than forcing a tight-tolerance deep hole to be fully molded.<\/td>\r\n            <\/tr>\r\n            <tr>\r\n              <td>Secondary tapping<\/td>\r\n              <td>Internal threads, precision assembly threads or gauge-controlled thread requirements<\/td>\r\n              <td>The thread is very small, shallow or close to thin walls<\/td>\r\n              <td>Confirm thread function, gauge requirement and machining access before tooling.<\/td>\r\n            <\/tr>\r\n            <tr>\r\n              <td>Redesign before tooling<\/td>\r\n              <td>Hidden internal undercuts, fragile core pin conditions and long narrow slots causing distortion risk<\/td>\r\n              <td>The feature blocks ejection or creates severe shutoff \/ flash risk<\/td>\r\n              <td>Change feature direction, split the feature, add radius, relax tolerance or move to a secondary operation.<\/td>\r\n            <\/tr>\r\n          <\/tbody>\r\n        <\/table>\r\n      <\/div>\r\n\r\n      <p>\r\n        This decision table should be used together with the drawing tolerance plan. A feature that is acceptable as-molded in one product may require secondary machining in another product if it controls sealing, bearing, alignment, wear, torque transfer or safety-related assembly.\r\n      <\/p>\r\n    <\/section>\r\n\r\n    <section class=\"xtmim-hsu-section\" id=\"redesign\">\r\n      <h2>When Should a Hole, Slot or Undercut Be Redesigned?<\/h2>\r\n      <p>\r\n        A feature should be redesigned when the geometry creates more production risk than functional value. This is especially important before tooling, because CAD changes are less expensive than mold steel changes after trial.\r\n      <\/p>\r\n\r\n      <ul class=\"xtmim-hsu-list\">\r\n        <li>A deep small hole requires a fragile core pin.<\/li>\r\n        <li>A blind hole is too deep for stable molding.<\/li>\r\n        <li>A side hole creates a flash-sensitive slide shutoff.<\/li>\r\n        <li>A long narrow slot creates weak mold steel.<\/li>\r\n        <li>A slot interrupts thin wall balance.<\/li>\r\n        <li>An undercut blocks normal ejection.<\/li>\r\n        <li>An internal undercut requires complex collapsible tooling.<\/li>\r\n        <li>A feature is located on a sealing, bearing, alignment or cosmetic surface.<\/li>\r\n        <li>A tight-tolerance feature cannot be inspected reliably.<\/li>\r\n        <li>A molded feature would require excessive post-process flash removal.<\/li>\r\n      <\/ul>\r\n\r\n      <div class=\"xtmim-hsu-note\">\r\n        <strong>Engineering note:<\/strong> These features may still be possible, but they should not be approved for tooling without a drawing-based <a href=\"https:\/\/xtmim.com\/mim-design-guide\/dfm\/\">DFM for MIM<\/a> review.\r\n      <\/div>\r\n    <\/section>\r\n\r\n    <section class=\"xtmim-hsu-section\" id=\"cost-impact\">\r\n      <h2>How These Features Affect MIM Tooling and Part Cost<\/h2>\r\n      <p>\r\n        Holes, slots and undercuts affect cost when they change the mold structure, production stability or secondary operation plan. The cost issue is not only the presence of the feature; it is the manufacturing method required to create it.\r\n      <\/p>\r\n\r\n      <div class=\"xtmim-hsu-table-wrap\">\r\n        <table class=\"xtmim-hsu-table\">\r\n          <thead>\r\n            <tr>\r\n              <th>Cost Driver<\/th>\r\n              <th>Why It Matters<\/th>\r\n              <th>Typical Design Question<\/th>\r\n            <\/tr>\r\n          <\/thead>\r\n          <tbody>\r\n            <tr>\r\n              <td>Side actions or slides<\/td>\r\n              <td>Add tooling complexity and maintenance<\/td>\r\n              <td>Can the feature follow mold opening direction?<\/td>\r\n            <\/tr>\r\n            <tr>\r\n              <td>Fragile core pins<\/td>\r\n              <td>Increase wear or breakage risk<\/td>\r\n              <td>Can the hole be enlarged, shortened or machined later?<\/td>\r\n            <\/tr>\r\n            <tr>\r\n              <td>Thin tool steel for slots<\/td>\r\n              <td>Can reduce tool life<\/td>\r\n              <td>Can slot width, depth or radius be adjusted?<\/td>\r\n            <\/tr>\r\n            <tr>\r\n              <td>Flash-sensitive shutoffs<\/td>\r\n              <td>Add finishing and inspection burden<\/td>\r\n              <td>Can the parting line move away from critical surfaces?<\/td>\r\n            <\/tr>\r\n            <tr>\r\n              <td>Secondary machining<\/td>\r\n              <td>Adds operation cost but may improve precision<\/td>\r\n              <td>Is the feature critical enough to machine?<\/td>\r\n            <\/tr>\r\n            <tr>\r\n              <td>Inspection requirements<\/td>\r\n              <td>Increase quality control workload<\/td>\r\n              <td>Which holes or slots are critical dimensions?<\/td>\r\n            <\/tr>\r\n            <tr>\r\n              <td>Trial mold correction<\/td>\r\n              <td>Increases project lead time<\/td>\r\n              <td>Can risk be solved during DFM instead?<\/td>\r\n            <\/tr>\r\n          <\/tbody>\r\n        <\/table>\r\n      <\/div>\r\n\r\n      <p>\r\n        For sourcing users, this explains why two parts with similar size and material can have different tooling and part costs. A compact part with straight-through holes may be simpler than a similar part with several side holes, hidden undercuts and critical slot tolerances. Related cost factors are discussed in <a href=\"https:\/\/xtmim.com\/mim-design-guide\/design-for-cost\/\">MIM design for cost<\/a>.\r\n      <\/p>\r\n    <\/section>\r\n\r\n    <section class=\"xtmim-hsu-section\" id=\"dfm-review\">\r\n      <h2>What to Provide for a Feature DFM Review<\/h2>\r\n      <p>\r\n        For holes, slots and undercuts, a useful DFM review requires more than a screenshot. The engineering team needs enough information to understand function, risk and production requirements.\r\n      <\/p>\r\n\r\n      <ul class=\"xtmim-hsu-checklist\">\r\n        <li>2D drawing with critical dimensions marked<\/li>\r\n        <li>3D CAD file<\/li>\r\n        <li>Material requirement or target mechanical properties<\/li>\r\n        <li>Hole diameter, depth and tolerance<\/li>\r\n        <li>Slot width, depth, end radius and function<\/li>\r\n        <li>Undercut function and mating part information<\/li>\r\n        <li>Cosmetic surfaces and functional surfaces<\/li>\r\n        <li>Sealing, sliding, bearing or alignment requirements<\/li>\r\n        <li>Expected annual volume<\/li>\r\n        <li>Surface finish or post-treatment requirement<\/li>\r\n        <li>Secondary machining allowance<\/li>\r\n        <li>Inspection requirements<\/li>\r\n        <li>Application environment and load condition<\/li>\r\n      <\/ul>\r\n\r\n      <figure class=\"xtmim-hsu-figure\">\r\n        <img loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/xtmim.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/05-mim-dfm-review-checklist.webp\" alt=\"DFM review checklist for MIM holes, slots and undercuts with drawings, CAD files, tolerances and material requirements\" title=\"05 MIM DFM Review Checklist\" width=\"1672\" height=\"941\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\">\r\n        <figcaption>A feature-level DFM review should include drawings, 3D files, material requirements, critical dimensions, functional surfaces, annual volume and secondary machining expectations.<\/figcaption>\r\n        <p class=\"xtmim-hsu-figure-note\"><strong>Core conclusion:<\/strong> The more clearly a buyer explains the function of holes, slots and undercuts, the more accurately the supplier can judge tooling, tolerance and production risk.<\/p>\r\n      <\/figure>\r\n\r\n      <p>\r\n        If you are still collecting design risks before RFQ, also review <a href=\"https:\/\/xtmim.com\/mim-design-guide\/design-mistakes\/\">common MIM design mistakes<\/a>.\r\n      <\/p>\r\n    <\/section>\r\n\r\n    <section class=\"xtmim-hsu-section xtmim-hsu-faq\" id=\"faq\">\r\n      <h2>FAQ: MIM Holes, Slots and Undercuts<\/h2>\r\n\r\n      <details>\r\n        <summary>Can MIM produce small holes directly?<\/summary>\r\n        <p>Yes, many small holes can be molded directly in MIM, but the practical limit depends on hole diameter, depth, direction, core pin support, material and tolerance requirement. A shallow non-critical hole is very different from a deep precision hole. Critical holes may need post-sintering machining or additional inspection.<\/p>\r\n      <\/details>\r\n\r\n      <details>\r\n        <summary>When should a MIM hole or slot be machined after sintering instead of molded?<\/summary>\r\n        <p>A hole or slot should be considered for secondary machining when it controls precision alignment, sealing, bearing fit, thread quality, tight diameter tolerance, sharp internal geometry or a critical assembly interface. Deep small holes, internal threads, narrow precision slots and functional bores may be more reliable when molded with allowance and finished after sintering.<\/p>\r\n      <\/details>\r\n\r\n      <details>\r\n        <summary>Are blind holes suitable for MIM?<\/summary>\r\n        <p>Blind holes can be suitable when they are shallow and accessible. Deep blind holes are more sensitive because the core pin may be supported from only one side. This can increase the risk of pin deflection, wear, dimensional variation or ejection problems.<\/p>\r\n      <\/details>\r\n\r\n      <details>\r\n        <summary>Can MIM make side holes?<\/summary>\r\n        <p>MIM can make side holes, but side holes often require slides or side actions in the mold. This may increase tooling complexity, flash risk and maintenance requirements. Side holes on functional or cosmetic surfaces should be reviewed carefully before tooling.<\/p>\r\n      <\/details>\r\n\r\n      <details>\r\n        <summary>Are undercuts possible in MIM parts?<\/summary>\r\n        <p>Yes, undercuts are possible in many MIM designs. External undercuts are generally easier than hidden internal undercuts. The key issue is whether the part can be ejected and whether the undercut requires slides, collapsible cores or other complex tooling.<\/p>\r\n      <\/details>\r\n\r\n      <details>\r\n        <summary>Do slots increase distortion risk in MIM?<\/summary>\r\n        <p>Slots can increase distortion risk when they are long, narrow, deep or located near thin walls. They can also affect feedstock filling and sintering shrinkage. Rounded slot ends, balanced wall sections and proper support review can reduce risk.<\/p>\r\n      <\/details>\r\n\r\n      <details>\r\n        <summary>Should threaded holes be molded or machined after sintering?<\/summary>\r\n        <p>It depends on thread type, size, precision and production volume. Some external thread-like features may be molded, but internal threads often need tapping or secondary machining when precision, assembly reliability or gauge control is important.<\/p>\r\n      <\/details>\r\n\r\n      <details>\r\n        <summary>When should I request a DFM review for holes, slots and undercuts?<\/summary>\r\n        <p>Request a DFM review when the part includes deep holes, blind holes, side holes, long narrow slots, internal undercuts, critical assembly features, cosmetic surfaces near parting lines, tight tolerances or any feature that may require slides, core pins or secondary machining.<\/p>\r\n      <\/details>\r\n    <\/section>\r\n\r\n    <section class=\"xtmim-hsu-final-cta\" id=\"project-review\">\r\n      <h2>Submit Your Drawing for Holes, Slots and Undercuts DFM Review<\/h2>\r\n      <p>\r\n        If your MIM part includes deep holes, side holes, narrow slots, locking undercuts, cosmetic surfaces near molded features or tight-tolerance assembly details, send your drawing for a feature-level DFM review before tooling.\r\n      <\/p>\r\n      <p>\r\n        Please provide 2D drawings, 3D CAD files, material requirements, key tolerances, surface requirements, estimated annual volume and application background. The XTMIM engineering team can review whether your holes, slots and undercuts are suitable for direct MIM molding, require slides or core pins, need secondary machining, or should be redesigned before tooling. This review can help identify flash risk, ejection issues, weak tool steel conditions, sintering distortion and inspection concerns before the project moves into mold manufacturing.\r\n      <\/p>\r\n      <div class=\"xtmim-hsu-btn-row\">\r\n        <a class=\"xtmim-hsu-btn\" href=\"https:\/\/xtmim.com\/contact-us\/\">Contact XTMIM Engineering Team<\/a>\r\n        <a class=\"xtmim-hsu-btn xtmim-hsu-btn-light\" href=\"https:\/\/xtmim.com\/mim-design-guide\/dfm\/\">Read DFM for MIM<\/a>\r\n      <\/div>\r\n    <\/section>\r\n\r\n    <section class=\"xtmim-hsu-author\">\r\n      <h2>Author \/ Engineering Review<\/h2>\r\n      <p>\r\n        <strong>Reviewed by XTMIM Engineering Team<\/strong>\r\n      <\/p>\r\n      <p>\r\n        This content is prepared for engineers and sourcing teams evaluating metal injection molding design feasibility before tooling. The review focus includes MIM process suitability, material selection, DFM risk, tooling complexity, core pin and slide requirements, feedstock filling risk, debinding and sintering distortion risk, tolerance strategy, inspection requirements, secondary operation planning and production feasibility. The recommendations are intended for early design review and should be confirmed through project-specific drawing evaluation.\r\n      <\/p>\r\n    <\/section>\r\n\r\n    <section class=\"xtmim-hsu-standards\">\r\n      <h2>Standards and Technical References Note<\/h2>\r\n      <p>\r\n        MIM design decisions for holes, slots and undercuts should be based on both general industry design guidance and project-specific supplier review. MIMA design guidance is especially relevant to this topic because it discusses cored holes, hole direction, parting plane relationship and complex MIM geometry considerations.\r\n        <a href=\"https:\/\/www.mimaweb.org\/DesignCenter\/ComplexDesignswithMIM.aspx\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">MIMA design guidance<\/a>.\r\n      <\/p>\r\n      <p>\r\n        MPIF Standard 35-MIM is relevant as a materials standard for metal injection molded parts, but it should not be treated as a direct geometry rulebook for holes, slots or undercuts. Its value for this page is mainly in supporting material and MIM industry context, while feature feasibility still depends on part geometry, tolerance requirements, inspection method and supplier-specific DFM review.\r\n        <a href=\"https:\/\/www.mpif.org\/Resources\/Standards.aspx\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">MPIF standards overview<\/a>.\r\n      <\/p>\r\n      <p>\r\n        Industry publications such as PIM International are useful for understanding common MIM design features and limitations, including holes, slots, grooves and undercuts. Final design limits should still be confirmed through project-specific review, material requirements, tolerance requirements, tooling feasibility and production inspection planning.\r\n        <a href=\"https:\/\/www.pim-international.com\/metal-injection-molding\/optimising-your-design-for-mim-production\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">PIM International design discussion<\/a>.\r\n      <\/p>\r\n    <\/section>\r\n\r\n  <\/div>\r\n<\/article>\r\n\r\n<script type=\"application\/ld+json\">\r\n{\r\n  \"@context\": \"https:\/\/schema.org\",\r\n  \"@graph\": [\r\n    {\r\n      \"@type\": \"BreadcrumbList\",\r\n      \"@id\": \"https:\/\/xtmim.com\/mim-design-guide\/holes-slots-undercuts\/#breadcrumb\",\r\n      \"itemListElement\": [\r\n        {\r\n          \"@type\": \"ListItem\",\r\n          \"position\": 1,\r\n          \"name\": \"Home\",\r\n          \"item\": \"https:\/\/xtmim.com\/\"\r\n        },\r\n        {\r\n          \"@type\": \"ListItem\",\r\n          \"position\": 2,\r\n          \"name\": \"MIM Design Guide\",\r\n          \"item\": \"https:\/\/xtmim.com\/mim-design-guide\/\"\r\n        },\r\n        {\r\n          \"@type\": \"ListItem\",\r\n          \"position\": 3,\r\n          \"name\": \"Holes, Slots and Undercuts\",\r\n          \"item\": \"https:\/\/xtmim.com\/mim-design-guide\/holes-slots-undercuts\/\"\r\n        }\r\n      ]\r\n    },\r\n    {\r\n      \"@type\": \"TechArticle\",\r\n      \"@id\": \"https:\/\/xtmim.com\/mim-design-guide\/holes-slots-undercuts\/#techarticle\",\r\n      \"mainEntityOfPage\": {\r\n        \"@type\": \"WebPage\",\r\n        \"@id\": \"https:\/\/xtmim.com\/mim-design-guide\/holes-slots-undercuts\/\"\r\n      },\r\n      \"headline\": \"MIM Holes, Slots and Undercuts Design Guide\",\r\n      \"description\": \"Learn how holes, slots and undercuts affect MIM tooling, core pins, slides, flash risk, sintering distortion, inspection checks and DFM review before production.\",\r\n      \"articleSection\": \"MIM Design Guide\",\r\n      \"proficiencyLevel\": \"Professional\",\r\n      \"about\": [\r\n        \"Metal Injection Molding\",\r\n        \"MIM design\",\r\n        \"MIM holes\",\r\n        \"MIM slots\",\r\n        \"MIM undercuts\",\r\n        \"MIM DFM review\",\r\n        \"MIM tooling risk\",\r\n        \"MIM inspection checks\",\r\n        \"MIM secondary machining\"\r\n      ],\r\n      \"audience\": {\r\n        \"@type\": \"Audience\",\r\n        \"audienceType\": \"Product design engineers, mechanical engineers, sourcing managers and supplier quality engineers evaluating MIM manufacturability before tooling\"\r\n      },\r\n      \"image\": [\r\n        \"https:\/\/xtmim.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/01-mim-holes-slots-undercuts-overview.webp\",\r\n        \"https:\/\/xtmim.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/02-mim-feature-suitability-matrix.webp\",\r\n        \"https:\/\/xtmim.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/03-core-pin-slide-risk-map.webp\",\r\n        \"https:\/\/xtmim.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/04-mim-slot-distortion-comparison.webp\",\r\n        \"https:\/\/xtmim.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/05-mim-dfm-review-checklist.webp\"\r\n      ],\r\n      \"author\": {\r\n        \"@type\": \"Organization\",\r\n        \"name\": \"XTMIM Engineering Team\",\r\n        \"url\": \"https:\/\/xtmim.com\/\"\r\n      },\r\n      \"publisher\": {\r\n        \"@type\": \"Organization\",\r\n        \"name\": \"XTMIM\",\r\n        \"url\": \"https:\/\/xtmim.com\/\"\r\n      },\r\n      \"citation\": [\r\n        \"https:\/\/www.mimaweb.org\/DesignCenter\/ComplexDesignswithMIM.aspx\",\r\n        \"https:\/\/www.mpif.org\/Resources\/Standards.aspx\",\r\n        \"https:\/\/www.pim-international.com\/metal-injection-molding\/optimising-your-design-for-mim-production\/\"\r\n      ]\r\n    },\r\n    {\r\n      \"@type\": \"FAQPage\",\r\n      \"@id\": \"https:\/\/xtmim.com\/mim-design-guide\/holes-slots-undercuts\/#faq\",\r\n      \"mainEntity\": [\r\n        {\r\n          \"@type\": \"Question\",\r\n          \"name\": \"Can MIM produce small holes directly?\",\r\n          \"acceptedAnswer\": {\r\n            \"@type\": \"Answer\",\r\n            \"text\": \"Yes, many small holes can be molded directly in MIM, but the practical limit depends on hole diameter, depth, direction, core pin support, material and tolerance requirement. A shallow non-critical hole is very different from a deep precision hole. Critical holes may need post-sintering machining or additional inspection.\"\r\n          }\r\n        },\r\n        {\r\n          \"@type\": \"Question\",\r\n          \"name\": \"When should a MIM hole or slot be machined after sintering instead of molded?\",\r\n          \"acceptedAnswer\": {\r\n            \"@type\": \"Answer\",\r\n            \"text\": \"A hole or slot should be considered for secondary machining when it controls precision alignment, sealing, bearing fit, thread quality, tight diameter tolerance, sharp internal geometry or a critical assembly interface. Deep small holes, internal threads, narrow precision slots and functional bores may be more reliable when molded with allowance and finished after sintering.\"\r\n          }\r\n        },\r\n        {\r\n          \"@type\": \"Question\",\r\n          \"name\": \"Are blind holes suitable for MIM?\",\r\n          \"acceptedAnswer\": {\r\n            \"@type\": \"Answer\",\r\n            \"text\": \"Blind holes can be suitable when they are shallow and accessible. Deep blind holes are more sensitive because the core pin may be supported from only one side. This can increase the risk of pin deflection, wear, dimensional variation or ejection problems.\"\r\n          }\r\n        },\r\n        {\r\n          \"@type\": \"Question\",\r\n          \"name\": \"Can MIM make side holes?\",\r\n          \"acceptedAnswer\": {\r\n            \"@type\": \"Answer\",\r\n            \"text\": \"MIM can make side holes, but side holes often require slides or side actions in the mold. This may increase tooling complexity, flash risk and maintenance requirements. Side holes on functional or cosmetic surfaces should be reviewed carefully before tooling.\"\r\n          }\r\n        },\r\n        {\r\n          \"@type\": \"Question\",\r\n          \"name\": \"Are undercuts possible in MIM parts?\",\r\n          \"acceptedAnswer\": {\r\n            \"@type\": \"Answer\",\r\n            \"text\": \"Yes, undercuts are possible in many MIM designs. External undercuts are generally easier than hidden internal undercuts. The key issue is whether the part can be ejected and whether the undercut requires slides, collapsible cores or other complex tooling.\"\r\n          }\r\n        },\r\n        {\r\n          \"@type\": \"Question\",\r\n          \"name\": \"Do slots increase distortion risk in MIM?\",\r\n          \"acceptedAnswer\": {\r\n            \"@type\": \"Answer\",\r\n            \"text\": \"Slots can increase distortion risk when they are long, narrow, deep or located near thin walls. They can also affect feedstock filling and sintering shrinkage. Rounded slot ends, balanced wall sections and proper support review can reduce risk.\"\r\n          }\r\n        },\r\n        {\r\n          \"@type\": \"Question\",\r\n          \"name\": \"Should threaded holes be molded or machined after sintering?\",\r\n          \"acceptedAnswer\": {\r\n            \"@type\": \"Answer\",\r\n            \"text\": \"It depends on thread type, size, precision and production volume. Some external thread-like features may be molded, but internal threads often need tapping or secondary machining when precision, assembly reliability or gauge control is important.\"\r\n          }\r\n        },\r\n        {\r\n          \"@type\": \"Question\",\r\n          \"name\": \"When should I request a DFM review for holes, slots and undercuts?\",\r\n          \"acceptedAnswer\": {\r\n            \"@type\": \"Answer\",\r\n            \"text\": \"Request a DFM review when the part includes deep holes, blind holes, side holes, long narrow slots, internal undercuts, critical assembly features, cosmetic surfaces near parting lines, tight tolerances or any feature that may require slides, core pins or secondary machining.\"\r\n          }\r\n        }\r\n      ]\r\n    }\r\n  ]\r\n}\r\n<\/script>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>MIM Holes Slots Undercuts Design Guide MIM Design Guide \u00b7 Feature-Level DFM MIM Holes, Slots and Undercuts Design Guide MIM can mold many holes, slots and undercuts that would be difficult or costly to machine from solid metal. The design decision is not simply \u201ccan it be formed?\u201d but whether the feature can be filled, ejected, debound, sintered, inspected and repeated in production. Hole direction, slot width, undercut position, core pin support, slide motion, parting line location and flash-sensitive surfaces all affect risk. A feature that looks simple in CAD may require a fragile core pin, side action, tight shutoff surface or post-sintering machining. This guide helps product engineers and&#8230;<\/p>","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":53839,"parent":53542,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-53855","page","type-page","status-publish","has-post-thumbnail","hentry"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/xtmim.com\/ja\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/53855","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/xtmim.com\/ja\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/xtmim.com\/ja\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/xtmim.com\/ja\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/xtmim.com\/ja\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=53855"}],"version-history":[{"count":4,"href":"https:\/\/xtmim.com\/ja\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/53855\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":53859,"href":"https:\/\/xtmim.com\/ja\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/53855\/revisions\/53859"}],"up":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/xtmim.com\/ja\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/53542"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/xtmim.com\/ja\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/53839"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/xtmim.com\/ja\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=53855"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}