Time to Rise to High Resolution?
15 September 2008
Plunkett Associates have recently signed an exclusive deal with Fineline Prototyping, allowing them to bring many years of experience in Stereolithography into the mix of rapid prototyping services on offer to their clients.
Sometimes known as 'small spot', High Resolution Stereolithography (HRSLA) uses a more tightly focused laser beam than conventional Stereolithography. The result is the production of small, intricate parts that are rich in features,, with extremely high accuracy.
Fineline Prototyping was set up by Rob Connelly, who has been involved with Stereolithography since 1989. His aim is to maximize the potential that high resolution offers. Fineline Prototyping now operates seven HR machines, whereas most companies have one or possibly two. This increased capability means that Fineline can quickly produce a huge range of prototypes from numerous different resins. Options range from extremely hard resin that is excellent for metal plating, saving time and money as an alternative to fully metal prototypes, to much more flexible polypropylene type materials.
Applications range from high strength, temperature resistant prototypes for physical testing, including wind tunnel models for aerospace and automotive applications, to highly accurate parts for use in the medical, instrument and telecoms industries.
To see what this technique can offer to product developers, visit the HRSLA page on the Plunkett Associates website at www.PlunkettAssociates.co.uk/HRSLA, where a link to the technology comparator gives a visual demonstration of how different technologies handle specific features.
Tim Plunkett started his RP 'super bureau' two years ago, to help product designers in all industries access the technology they need. He is developing exclusive relationships with leading prototype services, to offer the best that this technology is capable of delivering. Fineline is the world leader in HRSLA, which is why they are now working so closely with Plunkett Associates.
Rob Connelly, founder of FineLine Prototyping explains why he was so keen to work closely with Plunkett Associates: "Tim has earned an outstanding reputation as a leader in the field of high quality RP through his many years of experience. When presented with an opportunity to work with Plunkett Associates I knew it would be a perfect fit with Fineline. Their attention to detail and customer service is a perfect match to our own values."
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