Importance of Using CNC Rapid Prototype

by Charles Timbang

When it comes to CNC Rapid Prototyping, you are assured to take advantage of the numerous benefits that accompany computerized tools. These computerized equipment are used to produce product prototypes, high-quality parts, and engineering models within a short time. In this piece, you will get to know the top reasons why you need to adopt rapid prototyping.

Read on to know more.

Advantages of Using a CNC Rapid Prototyping

1. Its Fast

Using CNC machines for production in large quantities started in the 1970s. Because CNC software and machines have improved on their performances over the years, it became one of the fastest ways to create seemingly difficult shapes and hard plastics.

The speed of CNC Rapid prototyping also applies to processing and set-up time. For example, using the modern version of design software, CAM/CAD which is a three-dimensional part can be interpreted into a cutting program (G-code) and finally transferred to a mill (multi-axis) in a few hours.

2. Accuracy

There’s no regular way to attain a higher degree of precision and accuracy. You mostly need to involve cutting tools that are controlled by a computer. This higher level of accuracy tends to manufacture tolerances of about 59 microns or + 0.05 millimeters. This is considered more accurate than the wide majority of applications. This tolerance can be achieved by overproduction.

3. It Doesn’t Need Fixed Tooling

Production processes like pressure die casting and injection molding usually require that rigid dies that are made of toughened or semi-toughened steel alloys are used. Creating these tools can sometimes take many weeks, which all depends on their degree of difficulty.

Besides, silicone molds use vacuum casting which may take only a few days to get ready. One good thing is that this process is worth replicating in several other projects, mostly if you’re reproducing softer surface textures obtained from a master model. However, this can limit the progression of other jobs, especially ones that involve using CNC Machining to make engineered parts have a flatter and smoother surface.

4. It Works with Different Materials

In CNC machining, there’s no preference for what they cut. As long as the material is rigid and won’t melt or get deformed when put under the pressure during cutting, there’s no problem. This also helps in the better development of the product when you want to make many prototypes with little differences in mechanical properties. This same design can be produced in aluminum, rigid plastic, or steel.

5. Easy Modification

It’s quite easy to create modifications to a design quickly. All you need to do is alter a few lines on the G-code program; it’s mostly great for prototyping, letting you test many variants of iterations, and also have immediate access to the results. Modifying a program and making it more refined can decrease the total development of a product without having an extra cost.

Conclusion

The CNC prototyping brings required results only if experts are involved. CAD design, coding, machine availability, etc. makes experts consider it a task.

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