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Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP)

Prototype Molds Design Support Leads to Increased Sales

With the help of: Ohio Manufacturing Extension Partnership (Ohio MEP)

About

DECA Manufacturing is a local provider of electronic cable assemblies and wire harnesses across various industries, such as automotive, military, and general manufacturing. Located in a modern facility in Lexington, Ohio, DECA has grown into a trusted, innovative supplier with a diverse customer base and extensive capabilities. DECA regularly handles medium to large volume production runs but also accommodates smaller orders and prototypes. They can process a wide range of wire types and connector terminations. Cameron Haring, DECA’s President, actively contributes to shaping its future—by adding sensors and automation, improving back-office systems, and strategically expanding the DECA team. DECA is growing its presence, gaining recognition, and supporting the local community. Cameron is a community leader and has been recognized by Forbes for his investments in DECA.

The Challenge

MAGNET provided engineering support for designing and building two prototype molds for two of DECA's connectors, each with a total of 10 cavities.
MAGNET has done such an impressive job at continuing to evolve and increase its impact.
— Cameron Haring, President

MEP's Role

For two different products, MAGNET designed and built molds that position and hold the part in a cavity of a silicone mold so that the cavity can then be filled with epoxy by an operator. The wires needed to be partly encapsulated to help with strain relief. The connector with the 90-degree orientation of the wires had to meet the dimensional requirements provided by DECA.

MAGNET 3D printed patterns for casting the silicone for two-cavity molds for both products. The process involved purchasing materials and supplies for fabrication, fabricating mold bases and clamp plates, casting silicone molds (one for each product), and assembling and dry-testing at MAGNET.

Created December 6, 2025
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