PROTOTYPE SERVICES
BEST IN CLASS RAPID PROTOTYPING SERVICES ALLOW US TO PROVIDE PROOF OF CONCEPT FOR NEW CUSTOM DESIGNS.
Rapid Prototyping Services by Sierra Pacific
Whether we are custom designing a part for a client or adding something to our catalog, we want to be sure that all our designs are up to our quality standards. Prototyping is a big part of that process.
What is Rapid Prototyping?
Rapid prototyping allows us to quickly create high-fidelity prototypes of our designs. This aids in part testing and rapid iteration to deliver the right part at the right time for the right price. There are two major RP techniques we use:
Stereolithography (SLA) Modeling:
SLA technology uses a UV laser to selectively cure a polymer resin and create a solid 3D printed model. SLA is still one of the most cost-effective and accurate technologies available that will give you the best possible surface finish.
Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM):
FDM is another method of 3D printing prototype products. It uses a continuous filament of material. Typically, the product is printed layer-by-layer. Like MJM but with slightly less precision, this can be a quick way to produce a plastic prototype without the need for significant tooling or processing.
MACHINE
Form 3BL
Markforged x7
LAYER ACCURACY
From .001 to .004 in. (.025 to .100mm)
From .002 to .009 in. (.051 to .229 mm)
BUILD SIZE
13.2 x 7.9 x 11.8 in. (335 x 200 x 300 mm)
13 x 10.6 x 7.9 in. (330 x 269 x 201 mm)
MATERIAL
UV Cured ABS-like Plastic
Matte Black Onyx Plastic
How Can Prototypes Work for me?
The techniques used to produce parts for regular production require significant investments of money and time to complete tooling and prepare the production line. This is poorly suited to prototypes. They need to be made quickly and at a reasonable overall cost (even if the unit cost is higher).
Prototyping allows SPEP to perform form-and-fit studies, test product attributes, and give our clients peace of mind. Some even use refined prototypes for test marketing before investing in full-scale production. Being able to do this quickly and reliably allows us at SPEP to ensure the satisfaction of our clients.
How Long Does Prototyping Take?
Once a 3D design has been created, producing a prototype through 3D printing can be done in a matter of hours. Even the most complex designs only require a fraction of the multi-day or -week process needed for more traditional prototyping methods.
In addition, our complete prototype services allow us to thoroughly test our designs and refine them to optimize costs and production time. With these fast-turnaround methods, we are able to rapidly iterate on and improve designs using prototypes before ever proceeding with off-tool samples.
How Much Does Prototyping Cost?
Naturally, many of our clients want to understand how much a prototype costs to make. There are a few factors that determine the cost:
- Part Dimensions: Larger parts require more material. That means greater cost.
- Additional Processes: Some prototypes require finishes like painting or other assembly processes. These also add to the cost based on what is required.
- Design Process: We can work with a ready-to-print 3D model that you send us, we can completely design the part for you, or we can do something collaborative. Additional costs will apply depending on the work SPEP’s designers need to do to prepare the design for prototyping.
HOW TO GET STARTED?
View our new Product Development Guide or Contact us today.