Dear All,

Welcome to June's edition of 'Solutions from Outside the Box'. This month there is a brand new website for you to check out! Totally rebuilt and including stacks of information on what Plunkett Associates can bring to your development process, it is well worth a visit. (www.plunkettassociates.co.uk.)

To aid navigation the site is split into:

Parts - a comprehensive list of services, technologies and alternatives to bring prototypes and low volume production to you quickly and cost effectively. Sub divided by type, plastic, metal, clear and flexible, solutions for most requirements can be quickly found.

Advice - from sourcing issues to technology capability, rapid manufacturing to consultancy, there is a route to answers here.

New Technology - this features Sintermask, a high speed sintering technology that offers substantial speed improvements over laser sintering.

New Solutions - looks at processes, materials and the growing demand for micro parts. This area is constantly evolving as Plunkett Associates pioneers new solutions.

Later in the year there will be a FAQ section to cover some of the huge number of specialist questions that emerge from using these technologies and an increasing list of case histories that show how other companies have utilised the service.

So please take a look and add a bookmark! We look forward to working with you.

Is it time for 'Rapid CNC'?

Additive processes like SLA, FDM and SLS have become the preferred option when seeking prototype parts quickly. However in recent years CNC has been staging a comeback and can offer a number of advantages.

Firstly, there can be a financial advantage, especially when looking at larger parts and certainly if any joining is necessary.

Secondly, there is a range of materials available that far outstrips those available from the RP processes.

Thirdly, there are no issues with distortion as can be the case with large, relatively flat pieces and SLS.

Fourthly, by accessing the Far East where machines abound for exactly this kind of work, turnarounds are impressive and parts can ship, dressed and painted, for little extra cost.

As with the usual RP options, none is a panacea and all need considering on a job by job basis. The time has certainly come when CNC should be considered as a very viable alternative.

Metal Developments

Continuing the theme of CNC, Plunkett Associates is also sourcing both prototype and low volume production parts in aluminium from the Far East.

Whilst die casting is usually associated with high volume production, the geometry, leadtime and quantity required can make it an efficient prototype technique. Tooling times may surprise you!

3, 4 and 5 axis work, in materials such as aluminium, titanium, and magnesium can also be supplied, typically sourced from within Europe. Recent additions to the supply base now mean that a range of casting options is available, shipping parts in aluminium, magnesium and zinc.

Please visit the website and if you have questions or a project you wish to discuss call Tim Plunkett on 01452 862309 or email tim@plunkettasociates.co.uk.