Research Methodology

Last updated: June 14, 2026

This page explains how we research and source the information on MoldTexturingGuide, so readers
and other publications can assess and trust our work.

Source hierarchy

We prioritize primary sources, in this order:

• The standards bodies themselves (for example VDI for VDI 3400, SPI/SPE for SPI finishes, ISO
  and ASTM for international standards).
• Government and metrology institutions where relevant (for example NIST for surface metrology,
  EPA for environmental aspects of chemical etching, OSHA for safety).
• Peer-reviewed research and recognized technical literature.
• Manufacturer and industry documentation, used carefully and attributed.

How we handle data

• Quantitative values (Ra/Rz, VDI grades, draft angles) are cited to their source.
• Cross-standard conversions are presented as approximate and reference-only, because there is
  no official cross-conversion between SPI, VDI 3400, and Mold-Tech.
• When sources disagree, we say so rather than hiding the discrepancy.
• We do not publish figures we cannot verify.

Review

Technical content is reviewed by our Technical Editor before publication, as described in our
Editorial Policy.

Errors

If you believe a source or value is wrong, please use our
Corrections Policy. For citing our work,
see How to Cite Us.