Turning Tooling Challenges into Proven Solutions.

Expert support in DFM, material selection, tool design, processing, and ISO 9001 guidance.

With over 30 years of hands-on experience in toolmaking and injection moulding, David Steel Consult helps manufacturers bring designs to life with precision, efficiency, and confidence.

From early-stage design for manufacture (DFM) to ISO 9001 implementation, I provide calm, practical, and technically grounded support — remotely or on-site.

A man working with metal parts on a machine in a manufacturing workshop.
Close-up of a mechanical device with glass components and metal rods, likely part of a scientific or industrial apparatus.
Two men in business attire sitting at a table, one showing something on a tablet with a stylus, while the other looks on; two coffee cups on the table.

Meet David Steel

A confident man with crossed arms standing in an industrial or manufacturing setting with machinery in the background.

I started in toolmaking at 16, driven by a simple curiosity — why things break and how to make them better.

Over three decades later, that mindset still drives everything I do. After a full apprenticeship and years on the bench, I became a senior toolmaker, then moved into CAD/CAM and aerospace precision work before running my own toolmaking and injection moulding company.

I’ve worked across industries, from automotive to medical, specialising in problem-solving, DFM improvements, and precision moulding projects.

My consultancy allows me to share that experience, helping businesses make confident, informed decisions at every stage of tooling and production.

I believe every problem has a logical solution. Sometimes, it just takes a fresh perspective and a practical plan.

Our Services

Supporting tool rooms, engineers, and moulding departments from concept to qualification.

A man working on a metal mold or fixture in an industrial workshop, with CNC machines in the background.

Optimising product designs for efficient and reliable tooling.

  • Early-stage feasibility and manufacturability reviews

  • Wall thickness, draft angle, and parting line advice

  • Design recommendations to minimise cost and cycle time

Design for Manufacture (DFM)

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Processing Tips & Moulding Support

Improving part quality and consistency through process optimisation.

  • Process setup and validation guidance

  • Troubleshooting short shots, flash, and warpage

  • Practical solutions to improve cycle time and stability

Technical drawing and color samples for a mechanical or design project, including color swatches, engineering blueprints, and small metal keychain-like objects.

Helping you choose the right materials for performance, durability, and processing efficiency.

  • Plastic and elastomer recommendations

  • Material comparison and testing advice

  • Support for regulatory or specialist applications (medical, automotive, etc.)

Material Selection

A man working at a desk on a computer, viewing a 3D model of a mechanical part on the screen, surrounded by office supplies and shelves.

ISO 9001 Application & Guidance

Applying ISO 9001:2015 principles in real-world environments.

  • Implementing and maintaining quality management systems

  • Corrective action planning and documentation

  • Supplier or process audits

A CAD software interface displaying a 3D model of a mechanical assembly with various colored components, including brackets, shafts, and fasteners.

Tool Layout & Tool Design Approval

Independent review and approval before manufacture.

  • Tool concept validation

  • Gate, runner, and cooling layout checks

  • Design sign-off from a toolmaker’s perspective

  • Communication between OEM and supplier

Book a consultation or request support today.

Fill out the contact form below and we will be in touch to book a discovery call.

Get in touch

For project reviews, tooling advice, or processing support, please fill in the contact form and we will get in touch within 48 hours.

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