Rapid Prototyping Services
Our rapid prototyping services bridge the gap between concept design and functional testing through advanced 5-axis CNC machining and selective laser melting (SLM) technologies. Engineered to handle complex geometries with ±0.05mm dimensional accuracy, these processes support over 50 engineering-grade materials, including aluminum 6061, stainless steel 316L, and medical-grade PEEK, serving industries. By integrating real-time design for manufacturability (DFM) analysis, we reduce iteration cycles by 40% compared to conventional prototyping methods.
Metal Prototyping Capabilities
Specializing in high-performance metal prototypes, our facilities produce durable components capable of withstanding extreme operational environments. Through vacuum-assisted casting and precision CNC finishing, we achieve 1.2mm minimum wall thickness in titanium alloys and Ra 1.6μm surface roughness on stainless steel parts, making them ideal for hydraulic system validations and thermal stress testing. Typical applications include custom automotive brackets requiring ISO 16750 compliance and robotic end-effectors demanding repetitive impact resistance.
CNC Prototyping Advantages
For projects requiring micro-tolerance components, our CNC prototyping services deliver±0.005mm repeatability across metals, plastics, and composite materials. This process excels in creating injection mold prototypes with SPI-A2 surface standards and optical mounts needing angular accuracy below 0.02 degrees. With 24-hour machining capabilities, we support urgent requests for medical device prototypes requiring FDA-compliant documentation and consumer electronics housings needing UL94 V-0 flame ratings.
Technology Selection Guidance
Choosing between metal prototyping and CNC prototyping depends on functional requirements and production timelines. Metal prototyping through investment casting enables faster iteration for complex geometries in high-temperature alloys, typically achieving2-5 day lead times for functional validation. CNC machining provides superior surface finishes down to Ra 0.4μm, making it preferable for optical components and tight-tolerance assemblies. Our engineering team offers complimentary process recommendations based on your material specifications, budget constraints, and testing protocols.
| Metal Rapid Prototyping | CNC Prototyping | Description | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Material Suitability | Steel, Aluminum, Titanium, Copper, and other metals | Various metals (e.g., Aluminum, Brass, Stainless Steel) and engineering plastics (e.g., ABS, PC) | Metal Rapid Prototyping focuses on metals, while CNC Prototyping is suitable for both metals and plastics. |
| Geometry Complexity | High Complexity: Suitable for free-form shapes and intricate geometries | Medium to High Complexity: Ideal for precise, symmetrical, and well-defined shapes | Metal Rapid Prototyping excels at handling complex surfaces and internal structures, while CNC is better for regular shapes. |
| Machining Accuracy | Medium to High (±0.1mm) | High Precision (±0.01mm) | CNC Prototyping offers higher precision, ideal for parts with tight tolerances. |
| Surface Finish Quality | Usually requires secondary surface treatments (e.g., polishing, sandblasting) | Smoother finish, suitable for direct use or minimal post-processing | CNC provides better initial surface quality, while Metal Rapid Prototyping often needs additional finishing. |
| Production Lead Time | 1-3 days | 3-5 days | Metal Rapid Prototyping is generally faster, depending on geometric complexity and surface finishing needs. |
Available Materials For Rapid Prototyping
Here is the list of available metals for rapid prototyping. If you need any customized materials, please get in touch with us.
| Materials | Properties | Applications |
|---|---|---|
| Aluminum Alloys | Lightweight, high strength, good machinability | Prototypes for automotive, aerospace, and electronics |
| Stainless Steel | High corrosion resistance, strength, durability | High-performance parts for medical devices, tools, and machinery |
| Brass | Good electrical conductivity, corrosion resistance | Electrical components, decorative parts |
| Titanium Alloy | High strength-to-weight ratio, biocompatibility | Aerospace, medical implants, high-end equipment |
| ABS | High impact resistance, toughness, lightweight | Functional prototypes, consumer products |
| Nylon (PA) | High strength, flexibility, wear resistance | Mechanical parts, gears, hinges |
| Polycarbonate (PC) | High impact resistance, transparency, good dimensional stability | Prototypes for electronics, lighting, protective covers |
| POM (Delrin) | Low friction, high stiffness, good dimensional stability | Bearings, bushings, and wear-resistant parts |
Surface Enhancement Options
After prototyping, components undergo tailored post-processing to meet aesthetic and functional demands. Medical-grade electropolishing ensures bacterial-resistant surfaces for surgical tools, while hard-anodized coatings enhance wear resistance for automotive prototypes undergoing cyclic load testing. For consumer products, we provide UV-stable color matching with Pantone certification and textured finishes mimicking production-grade appearances. Explore our full range of finishing solutions to elevate your prototypes to market-ready quality.
Gallery Of Rapid Prototyping Parts
Rapid Prototyping FAQ
MOST FREQUENT QUESTIONS AND ANSWERSQ1: What is your fastest turnaround time for CNC prototypes?
A1: We guarantee 3-working-day delivery for standard aluminum CNC prototypes, with 24/7 emergency service for urgent component projects. Complex 5-axis machining typically requires 5-7 days, depending on part geometry.
Q2: Can you handle micro-tolerance prototypes below ±0.05mm?
A2: Yes. Our precision CNC prototyping achieves:
✓±0.005mmfor critical bearing surfaces
✓Ra 0.4μm mirror finishes via diamond turning
✓0.02° angular accuracy for optical components
Q3: What materials are available for metal prototyping?
A3: We stock 50+ alloys including:
•Stainless Steel 316L(medical compliant)
•Titanium Grade 5(aerospace-grade)
•Inconel 718(1600°F resistance)
•Aluminum 7075(high strength-to-weight)
.......
Q4: How do you ensure prototype accuracy?
A4: Our 3-stage verification includes:
→3D scanning vs CAD models (97% point cloud match)
→CMM inspection with 2μm repeatability
→Surface roughness testing per ISO 4288
Q5: Can prototypes be used for production tooling?
A5: Absolutely. Our bridge tooling service converts prototypes into:
✓Injection molds for 5,000-10,000 cycles
✓Die casting tools with conformal cooling
✓Stamping dies with HRC 58-62 hardness
Q6: What surface finishes do you offer?
A6: Choose from 15+ options:
•Medical: Electropolishing (Ra 0.2μm)
•Automotive: Hard-anodizing (60μm thickness)
•Consumer: UV-cured color coating
•Industrial: Bead blasting (Ra 1.6-3.2μm)
Q7: Do you provide DFM analysis for 3D printed parts?
A7: Yes. Our free DFM report includes:
✓ Wall thickness optimization
✓ Support structure simulation
✓ Material shrinkage compensation
✓ Cost-saving redesign suggestions
Q8: How to reduce prototyping costs?
A8: We recommend:
•Batch nesting(20-35% material savings)
•Standardized finishes(saves 15% post-processing)
•Off-peak machining(10% discount 22:00-6:00 CST)
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