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ProtoCAM: Additive Manufacturing, 3D Printing and Rapid Prototyping.

How to Select the Right Additive Manufacturing Technology

July 1, 2015
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  • Testimonials

    • "The Carbon [Digital Light Synthesis] 3D printing process was the perfect half step between late-stage functional prototyping and production. Aesthetics were crucial, and unless told otherwise, no one was able to identify the product was 3D-printed. [The process] accelerated business development and helped reduce risk as we approached tooling." — Michael DiCanzio, independent
    • "Our first experience with ProtoCAM last month was excellent. Quoting was prompt, engineering emailed and we spoke on the phone about a potential issue with the geometry of the parts so there were no surprises, the service was fast and delivery quick, the printed parts were of excellent quality, and all of the staff I dealt with were courteous and professional. You guys knocked it out of the park!" — Chris Davenport, RPC
    • “ProtoCAM's best attribute is their attention to detail and customer service. Their willingness and desire to keep in touch with me is impressive, and physical walkthroughs ensure quality standards are being met.” — Todd Frick, Versatek
    • "ProtoCAM has been most helpful in responding to our needs. Their knowledge of stereolithography and CAD, and their application of these technologies has helped us reshape our ideas to reality in the shortest possible time frame." — Kenneth Raines, B. Braun Medical
    • "As an emerging 3D modeling student at DeSales University, it was an incredibly valuable opportunity to learn more about the new innovations in 3D printing technology and how ProtoCAM couples its technical expertise with artistic value such as custom finishing to deliver a final product that exceeds the client's expectations." — Austin Kaplan, Desales University
    • “ProtoCAM's turnaround times are exceptional, and their prices compared to others are always better. There's a lot more value added in working with ProtoCAM.” — Matthew Bellenoit, B. Braun Medical

The most important factor in selecting an appropriate technology is the intended use of the part or parts.

The primary attribute requirements to consider include dimensional precision, surface finish, durability, flexibility, opacity, and color. Speed and cost are also essential variables that can influence not only which method is best, but which method is possible.

While each project and part must be evaluated individually, ProtoCAM’s breadth of production offerings and depth of engineering expertise can help customers define and accommodate nearly any combination of the above requirements.

Click here for additional details on selecting an additive manufacturing technology for a prototype or part or contact us for our advice. ProtoCAM excels at providing recommendations that best satisfy the requirements and specifications, while keeping the project cost-competitive.

ProtoCAM offers and uses the most advanced processes and materials to best meet your rapid prototyping and 3D printing needs.

The column headers below link to more detailed information on the materials used for each process. Please contact us for additional or special materials or processes for your rapid prototyping application.

 StereolithographyLaser SinteringPolyJet 3D PrintingFDM
Short DescriptionLaser cured resinLaser cured powderJetted materialExtruded material
AccuracyGreatGoodGoodGreat
ColorClear or white, can be dyed or paintedWhite, can be dyed or painted46 colorsMultiple
ClarityOpaque to clearOpaqueOpaque to translucentOpaque to translucent
Surface FinishSmooth, can be sandedSomewhat coarseSmooth to rubber-likeMild build lines
DurabilityFairGoodGoodExcellent
Water ResistanceWatertightPorousWatertightPorous
USPAvailableN/AN/AAvailable

ProtoCAM provides our customers engineering assistance on selecting the best prototyping processes and materials. The above listing is not comprehensive; ProtoCAM uses many other prototyping processes, materials, and resins based on your needs. Please contact us for assistance with your rapid prototyping and additive manufacturing method and material selection, or click here to request a quote.