There are many factors that affect the production and delivery of stereolithography prototypes. Weather is one critical factor. These factors affect the stereolithography process:

• Humidity - SLA prototypes can absorb moisture
• Heat - SLA prototypes are more brittle when cold and softer when warm

While at ProtoCAM, stereolithography prototypes are made and packed in a controlled environment, so the prototypes do not experience weather extremes here. But they do have to be shipped to customers, so once they leave the ProtoCAM facility, they are exposed to other conditions.

In order properly protect prototypes during shipment, the following precautions are taken:

• Prototypes are properly cushioned in the shipping container, which also insulates the part from temperature extremes
• Support is provided in the container for the prototype if the shape of the part requires it
• The day of the week is considered for shipment - in hot weather, we might delay a Friday shipment until Monday so that the prototype is not exposed to long periods of heat while in transit

With ProtoCAM’s vast prototyping experience, even these seemingly minor details are considered to provide you with the best service and best results.

Request a quote for your next stereolithography prototype!

Labels: protocam, prototypes, rapid prototyping, stereolithography

ProtoCAM does most of its prototyping work using additive rapid prototyping technologies such as stereolithography (SLA), selective laser sintering (SLS) and 3D printing. Fused deposition modeling (FDM) is another additive rapid prototyping process that is used. With additive rapid prototyping, material is added on or built up in the creation process.

Subtractive prototyping is another way to create prototypes in which material is removed from a larger piece of material. Subtractive prototypes are typically created using more traditional manufacturing processes. These include standard machining process such as milling, turning/lathing or drilling, and more modern tools like CNC machining. So with subtractive prototyping, you might start with a block of metal or plastic and cut away material until the prototype part is created.

In rapid prototyping, there are advantages and disadvantages to any choice of technology. Subtractive prototyping is limited to relatively simple shapes - complex geometries are not possible. The material must be readily available in the size and shape needed. And subtractive RP usually takes longer. Its main advantage is that is made in the final production material.

So if time, design complexities and materials are critical, additive rapid prototyping is likely the best choice. Contact ProtoCAM for additive rapid prototyping services.

Labels: rapid prototyping, rp technology