RAPID PROTOTYPING: THE FASTEST GROWING SMART MEANS OF MANUFACTURING

Rapid Prototyping service involves specialized manufacturing techniques for making physical models which are derived from 3D design ideas. As such, anything and everything that can be developed into a CAD model can be easily fabricated using this rapidly growing means of manufacturing. Rapid Prototyping can be used for design improvement as it enables model testing, prior to actual product development, thus easing the burden of huge costs involved during research phase. Start Prototyping, Rapid Prototyping Service China, aims at providing the best quality of services at the most affordable prices. For more information, visit https://www.startprototyping.com/rapid-prototyping/ which is a Rapid Prototyping Service Manufacturer.

The two most preferred means of Rapid Prototyping are:

1# Stereo lithography (STL): In this method, a bath of photosensitive resin (in liquid form) is solidified one layer at a time, using UV light. These layers are again derived by slicing the cross-sections of the CAD model, one layer at a time. This method produces strong products with good surface finish. The main SLA material used by Start Prototyping (Rapid Prototyping Service China Manufacturer) is a photosensitive polymer.

2# Selective Laser Sintering (SLS): In this method, a CO2 laser traces the path, according to the cross-section sliced, and this “sinters” the media, thus solidifying the thermoplastic media into the desired product. This can be used with both metals and plastics. This enables the production of more complex geometries. SLS uses powdered nylon material, which acts as a support material throughout the 3D printing process, reducing the post-processing time.

The surface finish obtained using 3D printing can be of the order of 1-10 mm, though the turnabout time is only 2-5 days, which makes the process fast and reliable.

There is another method of manufacturing, which is gaining attention in recent times.

3# CNC Machining: This method employs cutting tools which can move in multi-axes systems, thus enabling the accessibility and machining of intricate parts and cross-sections which cannot be done by traditional manufacturing methods. CNC machining centers include 4 – and 5 – axis milling and 3 – axis turning, which can provide precision prototype machining. The most commonly used materials include PEEK, titanium, 316L, or medical grade stainless steel, cobalt and chromium.

In general, CNC machining is more accurate than 3D printing, produces a surface finish of the order of 0.05mm to 0.1mm. However, the turnabout time is usually around 3-8 days.

1# Medical: Start Prototyping is the primary resource for your medical device machining. Most hearing aid devices are designed using the stereo lithography or the selective laser sintering. Other areas that are adapting the rapid prototyping technology are the replacement of teeth. Some drug dosage forms are also designed by the use of these technologies. Especially the dosage forms those are difficult to design using any other method. Through our rapid tooling, Japanese machine tools, high speed multi axis milling centers, precision CNC machining, the highest quality products are applied to the medical industry.

2# Automobiles: From the design of valves in engines, to the chassis supporting the vehicle, to the overall body of the automobiles, Rapid Prototyping provides a convenient method for presentation of ideas during the testing phase and check against suitable alternatives. For an automotive prototype, it is crucial that it undergoes safety testing. Failure Mode Effect Analysis or FMEA is the name of the safety test during which, the prototypes are put through different scenarios. This can be done effectively by rapid prototyping methods provided by our industry.

The competitive price of Start Prototyping is usually 30%-50% lower than the price in the US or Europe because of lower labor costs. In addition, projects can be launched quickly compared to other rapid prototyping companies.

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