3D Printing & Rapid Prototyping Services

The process of 3D printing, also known as additive manufacturing, is a manufacturing process that produces three-dimensional components by building material layer by layer from a digital CAD model. The process enables rapid production of complex geometries, intricate features, and functional prototypes with reduced material waste and shortened development timelines.

Capabilities

  • High-accuracy 3D printing for complex geometries, intricate features, and tight-tolerance components
  • Rapid production of functional prototypes, concept models, and fit-and-form parts
  • Tooling aids, fixtures, jigs, and pre-production parts for design validation and manufacturing support
  • Material selection support for engineering-grade thermoplastics and specialty additive manufacturing materials
  • Secondary services include support removal, surface, painting and coating, insert installation, assembly, bonding and adhesive assembly, CNC finishing for critical surfaces, and inspection/validation
  • Seamless transition from prototyping to injection molding or blow molding production for scalable manufacturing solutions
  • Engineering support including CAD review and Design for Manufacturability (DFM) assistance
  • Common applications and products include concept models, functional prototypes, housings and enclosures, brackets and fixtures, ergonomic parts, snap-fit assemblies, jigs and test fixtures, low-volume end-use components, and pre-production validation parts for form, fit, and function testing

Fast Turnaround Times

Quick production of prototype parts to keep projects moving forward.

Design Validation

Evaluate form, fit, and function before moving into full production.

Cost-Effective Development

Reduce tooling costs by identifying design improvements early.

Seamless Transition to Production

Prototypes developed with production in mind for smoother manufacturing.

Key Materials for 3D Printing / Rapid Prototyping

  • PLA (Polylactic Acid): Easy-to-print thermoplastic commonly used for early-stage prototypes, concept models, and form/fit testing due to its dimensional stability, low cost, and fast printability.
  • ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene): Versatile thermoplastic offering good impact resistance, machinability, and surface finish quality for concept models and functional prototypes.
  • TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane): Flexible, rubber-like material offering excellent elasticity, impact resistance, and abrasion resistance for functional prototypes, seals, grips, and flexible components.
  • PETG (Polyethylene Terephthalate Glycol): Durable, chemical-resistant thermoplastic with good clarity and impact strength, commonly used for functional parts, enclosures, and snap-fit components.
  • Nylon (PA): Durable engineering thermoplastic offering high strength, abrasion resistance, and flexibility for functional prototypes and mechanical components.

Common 3D Printing / Rapid Prototyping Applications

  • Medical & Healthcare: Anatomical models, surgical guides, device housings, diagnostic components, and functional prototypes for design validation, fit testing, and pre-production evaluation
  • Aerospace: Lightweight prototypes, ducting components, brackets, interior fixtures, and complex geometries for fit checks, assembly validation, and performance testing
  • Automotive & EV: Prototype housings, connectors, brackets, dashboard components, fluid system parts, and concept models for design iteration and engineering validation
  • Consumer Products & Appliances: Concept models, ergonomic prototypes, housings, enclosures, and snap-fit assemblies for design refinement, usability testing, and market evaluation
  • Electronics & Electrical: Enclosures, connector housings, device prototypes, mounting brackets, and internal components for PCB integration and functional testing
  • Industrial Equipment: Custom fixtures, jigs, tooling aids, machine components, and replacement part prototypes for operational testing and design verification
  • Packaging & Product Development: Prototype containers, closure systems, and packaging concepts for form, fit, and functionality testing prior to production tooling

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