Introduction
Definition and Basics of Rapid Prototyping Service
Rapid prototyping service is a technology - driven process that allows for the quick creation of a physical model or prototype of a product from a digital design. It's a game - changer in the manufacturing and product development landscape, enabling companies to transform their ideas into tangible objects rapidly. The fundamental principle behind rapid prototyping is the layer - by - layer construction of a three - dimensional object.
Types of Rapid Prototyping Services
3D Printing
3D printing is a cornerstone of rapid prototyping services, offering a diverse range of technologies to meet various prototyping needs.
FDM (Fused Deposition Modeling)
FDM is a widely - used 3D printing technology. Its working principle is relatively straightforward. A spool of thermoplastic filament, such as PLA (Polylactic Acid) or ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene), is fed into a heated extruder. The extruder melts the filament and then deposits it layer by layer onto a build platform. The nozzle moves in precise X, Y, and Z axes directions according to the digital design instructions, creating the object's shape.
SLA (Stereolithography)
SLA works by using a laser to cure liquid photopolymer resin. A vat is filled with the liquid resin, and a UV laser traces the cross - sectional shape of each layer of the 3D model onto the surface of the resin. As the laser hits the resin, it causes a photochemical reaction, solidifying the resin and creating a thin layer of the object. After each layer is cured, the build platform is lowered, a new layer of resin is spread over the previously cured layer, and the process repeats until the entire prototype is completed.
Based on the document, the maximum build size for SLA is 145 × 145 × 175 mm (5.7" x 5.7" x 6.8"). The standard lead time is 6 business days. The dimensional accuracy is ± 0.5% with a lower limit of ± 0.15 mm (± 0.006"), and the layer height ranges from 25 - 100 um. These specifications make SLA an ideal choice for applications that demand high precision and a smooth surface appearance.
SLS (Selective Laser Sintering)
SLS uses a high - power laser to sinter powdered materials, such as nylon, metal, or ceramic powders, layer by layer. The laser scans the powder bed, melting and fusing the powder particles together according to the design of each layer. After each layer is completed, a new layer of powder is spread over the previous one, and the process continues until the 3D object is fully formed.
Regarding its capabilities, the maximum build size is 300 x 300 x 300 mm (11.8” x 11.8” x 11.8”). The standard lead time is 6 business days. The dimensional accuracy is ± 0.3% with a lower limit of ± 0.3 mm (± 0.012”), and the layer thickness is 100 μm. SLS's ability to produce parts with complex geometries without the need for support structures in many cases is a significant advantage over some other 3D printing technologies.
CNC Machining
CNC machining is another important rapid prototyping service. It is a subtractive manufacturing process that uses computer - controlled machines to remove material from a solid block (such as metal or plastic) to create the desired shape. The process typically involves milling (using 3 -, 4 -, or 5 - axis machines), turning, and other operations.
CNC machining is the best rapid prototyping option for simple, metal parts, especially when dimensional accuracy is critical. For example, in the production of engine components for the automotive industry, CNC machining can ensure tight tolerances. It can work with a wide variety of materials, with the document stating that it can handle 35 metals and plastics (and the number is still growing).
The finishes available for CNC - machined parts are diverse, including smoothed, bead - blasted, anodized, powder - coated, electropolished, brushed, and more. The tolerances can be as low as +/-.0008” (0.020mm), which is extremely precise. The minimum order value is US$150, and the lead times range from 5 - 15 days. This makes CNC machining a reliable choice for projects that require high - precision metal prototypes, although the lead time may be longer compared to some 3D printing technologies.
Benefits of Rapid Prototyping Service
Cost - Efficiency
Rapid prototyping service offers significant cost - savings compared to traditional manufacturing methods.
Time - Saving
One of the most prominent advantages of rapid prototyping service is its ability to accelerate the product development process. With rapid prototyping, the time from design to a physical prototype is greatly reduced.
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