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Although previously seen as only applicable to production manufacturing, many companies now consider CNC machining for their rapid prototyping needs.  Among the different prototype processes available on the market today, CNC precision machining may be the best choice for your product, particularly when fine detail or very robust materials are needed.

About CNC Rapid Prototyping

CNC prototyping involves creating functional prototypes using a computer numeric machining (CNC) process. The machine uses a CAD model to create the prototype, with the machine optimizing the cutting paths and switching the size of the cutters to achieve the desired result. The process is a subtractive one, which means that the tool will take away material from a block of material to create the prototype.

CNC Rapid Prototyping

Consistency and Precision

When you select CNC rapid prototyping, the prototyping company will work with your CAD model or, in some cases, create a CAD model from your drawings or even a sample piece. A CNC machine allows creation of a part with the precision of the CAD model. You can use the process to create multiple copies of the same design or, with minor changes to the CAD model, build several prototypes with design variations.

The resulting CNC prototype has a high functional and visual appearance that closely mirrors what a production part would look like. If need be, any errors can be addressed in the CAD model and a new version built quickly.

Compatibility of Materials

A wide range of materials are available for prototype CNC machining.  Most metals, including stainless steel, aluminum, or brass, can be machined with high accuracy.  Plastics can be used as well.  Even optical quality clear plastics can be machined if the prototype supplier understands how to handle the material to avoid scratches or cracks that would ruin the optics.

Constant Production

CNC machines can work around the clock, and they require little human intervention to operate once the design is set.  Advanced machines will turn the parts so that complex or time-consuming cutting can be set in the initial program, allowing the machines to run unattended with little lost time.  For smaller parts, it is often possible to cut multiple copies at one time, further increasing the time efficiency of rapid prototyping using CNC machining.

Intricate Pieces

Since CNC machining is subtractive rather than additive, it is often suited for parts with complex details.  For example, the lenses used in automotive headlamps and tail lamps to diffuse and transmit the light from LEDs can be made to look exactly as designed and with a quality as good as molded parts used in final production.  Since the machines can change cutting bits as the build it proceeding and bits are available down to a few millimeters in size, very fine detail can be achieved in specific areas of a part.

Choose the Best Provider of Prototype CNC Machining

Prototype CNC machining can only bring the results you need if you turn to a trusted provider. Global Technology Ventures Inc. can help with CAD design, material selection, and optimization of the CNC process.  We provide cost-effective and top-notch prototyping services to companies engaged in different industries. Contact us today to learn how our services can improve your operations.

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