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Rapid Prototyping Solutions for Form, Fit and Function, Incorporating Redeye RPM Australasia
RapidPro uses many different prototyping processes, each with specific materials and techniques to achieve a desired end result. They will guide you through the best prototyping options to suit your project, end use and budget.
3D Printing
Manufacturing prototypes from plaster using 3D Printing is still the most cost effective prototyping process available today.
Features of 3D Printing Prototyping
- Each part or prototype is built by alternating a layer of plaster with a bonding agent.
- The finished part is then cleaned and impregnated with resin for strength.
- These parts can be readily finished to look like the end use product.
- Colour printing is also available, ideal for topography work.
- Ideal for form studies, 3D printing is definitely the best solution for those on a tight budget.
Fused Deposition Modeling
Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) is a process where thermoplastic materials are extruded and deposited layer by layer, fusing each new layer to the one below.
Features of FDM Prototyping
- FDM prototyping and direct digital manufacturing systems create accurate, functional prototypes using a variety of high performance engineering materials like ABS, polycarbonate and polyphenylsulfone.
- FDM produces prototypes in the materials often used for end use.
- Capable of building parts up to 600x500x600mm in one piece, there is a wide variety of materials available in various colours.
- Popular for medical and automotive applications, FDM produces functional working prototypes suitable for form, fit and function testing.
Selective Laser Sintering
Selective Laser Sintering (SLS) uses a computer controlled laser beam to fuse nylon powder in a process that bonds layer by layer.
Features of SLS Prototyping
- The benefit of SLS prototyping is that prototypes are produced in nylon and glass filled nylon materials.
- These can then be used for functional testing, especially where chemical resistance is required.
- Nylon is a flexible material which can allow for greater movement in the prototype, which can be critical in some applications.
Objet Printing
Objet printing is capable of building prototypes in a wide variety of hard plastics and soft rubber like materials. You can also build in a combination of these by changing the percentage of each material to achieve the desired hardness and Shore factor.
Features of Objet Prototyping
- Objet printing is an additive process where a 3D picture is built using UV lights and UV sensitive materials.
- The benefits of this process are its wide variety of materials and colours as well as its ease in handling complex geometries and matrixes.
- Rubber like materials are manufactured with ease, showcasing their flexibility and end use qualities.
- Wide range of materials available.
- Suitable for form, fit and function.
CNC
Computer Numerical Control (CNC) is the opposite of most rapid prototyping processes. Instead of being an additive process, it actually uses the selective removal of material to build your part.
Features of CNC Prototyping
- Used for building prototypes in Aluminum, Acrylic, Foam, Zinc, Nylon, Acetal and Chemical Wood.
- Ideal process for testing product wear, snap features, durability and overall strength.
- A wide variety of finishes can also be achieved producing a prototype similar in appearance to the manufactured part.
Hand Finishing and Painting
Prototypes can be used in their Natural state or you can have them painted and finished to look like the end use product. Chrome plating is just one finishing technique we use to make plaster prototypes resemble their end use products.