Rapid Prototyping Frequently Asked Questions (RP FAQ)

Flexible Parts

  1. When I need a flexible part how do I choose which process to use?
  2. How is hardness defined?
  3. Aesthetics are important, is it possible to colour match flexible parts?
  4. What is the quickest method to get a flexible part?
  5. What if I do not know the hardness I need?
  6. Can I have rubber, EPDM or Viton for example?
  7. What is the effect of quantity, if I only want 1 part or maybe 100 parts?
  8. My part is a simple 2D shape, is there an easier way?

Tooling

  1. Development, Prototype and Bridge tooling, what is it and when should I use it?
  2. The project will need 100's of prototypes, how do I make them economically?
  3. My prototype must be in the production intent material (ABS,PC, PA, PP etc) what are my options?
  4. Development, Prototype and Bridge tooling, how long does it take and what are the costs?
  5. How is Low Volume Production (LVP) tooling different from development or production tooling?
  6. Many of my colleagues are buying tools from China, should I?
  7. What additional costs are involved in sourcing from China?

Cosmetics

  1. I need my prototype to look like the final production item; can this be done?
  2. If my primary goal is a visual model, which process will give the best substrate?
  3. Do I need to change my CAD model to allow for painting?
  4. What if I need metallic finishes?
  5. Can parts be metal plated?
  6. Are vacuum castings painted or pigmented?
  7. If I need a gloss/matt/textured finish, can this be done?
  8. I need text, logo's and graphics, is this possible?

Metal Parts

  1. I need a metal prototype quickly, but how?

Plastic Parts

  1. Should I use SLS or SLA for a functional prototype?
  2. Should I be concerned about the latest SLA hardware

So you see, you don't have to get yourself into a twist about making a decision. We are here to straighten out any confusion and for those really devilish parts we continue to come up with 'Solutions from Outside the Box'!

Contact Plunkett Associates for support on your product development programme, we are just a call or email away.