3D Printing & Prototyping
High Resolution 3D Printing
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Various parts printed in-house using SLA 3D printing technology.
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Variety of Useful Materials |
We use an advanced 3D printing technology that forms parts from ultraviolet sensitive resin. This allows parts to be printed using a laser, resulting in extremely accurate results. Various resins can be used depending on the application, ranging from fiberglass filled parts, flexible rubber parts, parts similar to standard ABS injection molds, durable working parts, gears, etc. The material is not brittle like standard 3D printing.
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High Resolution 3D Printing (SLA)Standard 3D printing (FDM technology) extrudes filament similar to a hot glue gun to form parts. This is the technology used by most hobby 3D printers. While useful, this creates a rough surface, where fine details are not possible, and tight tolerances cannot be maintained. This FDM print was created on a high-end commercial FDM printer, and demonstrates the maximum capability of these printers.
Our 3D prints using SLA technology have a much finer surface finish. They look very much like injection molded plastics. Some very fine scan lines are visible, though these can be easily sanded out if necessary for the given application. |
Our high resolution SLA print vs. standard FDM print. 2019.
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Threaded PartsNormal 3D printing technology cannot form fine features such as threads, and normal printing technology creates parts that are brittle and generally cannot contain stresses or pressures without cracking.
This part is printed with a special durable material that is similar to PVC. It has a very slight give to it, so the part is not brittle and is very difficult to crack. This material is ideal for plumbing fittings, fixtures, and tools that must handle repeated use in real-world applications. |
Functional plumbing fitting with 1/2" NPT threads. 2019.
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SLA UV Resin Printed Parts. 2019.
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Printing with Liquid ResinFinished parts prior to removing from the 3D printer. They are still coated with un-cured resin at this point. They are removed from the build platform and rinsed isopropyl alcohol. Once the excess resin is removed the parts are cured under a UV light. They are then stable and ready for use.
Various resins are available for various uses. If we can't directly print a specific material, we can often create a mold using a 3D printed master part, then pour secondary parts out of just about any other material from chocolate, to specialty epoxy, to molten metal. |
Other 3D Printing TechnologiesThere are many different 3D printing technologies. Some are better suited to different applications. If we can't produce the part in-house, I have relationships with several printing shops in the USA capable of all the various specialty 3D printing technologies.
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High resolution 3D printed rapid prototype. Designed & produced 2009.
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