Rapid Prototyping Technologies

Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) Technology

Fused Deposition Modeling offers a layered manufacturing process in which a thin bead of molten plastic is extruded through a computer-controlled nozzle, and deposited layer-by-layer on a base to build up the desired form.

FDM Technology is the only additive manufacturing method that uses production-grade thermoplastics which can endure high heat, caustic chemicals, sterilization and intense mechanical stresses. This offers RP benefits for applications such as tough mechanical testing, manufacturing tooling, custom end-use parts and low-volume manufacturing. FDM is a relatively inexpensive RP process, and is clean, quiet and office-friendly.

PolyJet Technology

PolyJet rapid prototyping is based on a similar principle to that used in inkjet document printing, except instead of jetting drops of ink onto paper, the rapid prototyping method works by jetting layers of liquid photopolymer onto a build tray. Layers are cured by UV light and build up one at a time to create a 3D model, prototype or part.

PolyJet rapid prototyping offers significant RP advantages as it provides superior quality and speed, with a very wide versatility of materials. Pioneered by Stratasys (then Objet), PolyJet-based 3D printers can print 16-micron layers with a high accuracy of up to 0.1mm. Prototypes can be printed using a range of materials offering different properties — from rubber to rigid, from transparent to opaque and from standard to engineering plastics. Objet has also introduced a range of more than 100 materials with the ability to combine these to produce advanced composite materials and to specify up to 14 separate materials properties in a single printed model or prototype.

Other Rapid Prototyping Technologies

Selective Laser

Sintering Selective Laser Sintering uses a high-power laser to fuse 3D parts from powdered materials. Compared with other rapid prototyping methods, this technology can produce parts from a relatively wide range of materials, such as plastic, metal, ceramic, or glass.

Stereolithography

Stereolithography works by curing liquid photopolymers when exposed to ultraviolet light. This technology provides a good surface finish and is suitable for conceptual and presentation designs.

Rapid Prototyping Technologies — Summary: