ABSTRACT
Moulds are virtually independent of the remaining plant, whereas, in the latter, moulds are either part of the machine or are largely integral with it. Architectural needs from moulds generally relate to shape and/or surface finish and could refer to deviations from planeness of a visual surface as well as to the finish. Steel is the first choice of mould materials due to its high strength, abrasion resistance and good temperature stability compared to timber and plastics. Concrete moulds came into prominence in the 1950s for the manufacture of tunnel segemnts and are in use today for the manufacture of these and similar units where very strict tolerances are specified. Apart from steel and plastics moulds paints can considerably increase the performance and lifetime of moulds. Painting steel moulds might only be considered when a mould is to be put into storage for a considerable period.
