FAQs

What type of files do you accept?

We accept native CAD files from the following Programs: Solidworks, Pro Engineer, Inventor, Rhino. We can also accept .igs, .stp, and .stl files.

What is the best way of saving CAD to .STL files?

Most common CAD packages will allow you to save in the .stl format. Two options can affect the quality of the .stl file output. Changing the deviation setting will alter the overall output or tessellation of the .stl, and changing the angle tolerance will alter smaller details in .stl files.

The more precise these parameters are, the more triangles are placed on the surface of the model. Simple geometries will tend to be a couple of hundred kilobytes in size. Complex models range from 1 to 5MB in size and still produce good parts. For many models, files larger then 5MB may be unnecessary and often result in more time to get your quote and models back. In all cases, export .stl files as Binary files.

What form of payment do you accept?

We accept company POs (OAC), VISA, MasterCard and Discover.

Rapid Prototyping & CNC

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What type of files do you work with?

We use .stl files to print your prototypes. You can either send us a high resolution .stl file or native Pro E, Solidworks, or Inventor files. You can also send .stp or .igs files.

What is an .STL file?

An .stl file is a neutral file format for rapid prototyping. .stl files are a "Save As" option from any 3D CAD software. Click this link to view instructions for saving CAD files to .stl files.

Is colored material available?

Yes. ABS models can be printed in seven different ABS colors. Choose from white, green, red, yellow, blue, steel grey, and black. If a color is not specified your models will be printed in the default color, which is white. Acrylic polymer models are white, black, blue, or translucent.

Is there an additional charge for colored models?

There is no additional charge for colored ABS models. Your model will cost the same regardless of the color you choose. A color swap charge of $50 is applied to acrylic polymer models.

How durable is Rapid prototypes?

Unlike appearance prototypes produced in weak materials, ABS (acrylnitrile butadene styrene) models are used for functional and field tests - from wind tunnel testing to camera mounts on a M1A Bradley tank and a spray gun running at 60 psi.

Is post-processing required?

Post-processing is not required. The model will retain its shape and accuracy indefinitely. ABS parts can be sanded, milled, drilled, tapped, painted and even electro-plated.

Can I finish or paint these parts?

Yes. ABS Models can be sanded, primed and painted to look like an actual production part.

What form of payment do you accept?

We accept company POs (OAC), VISA, MasterCard and Discover.

Are there any size limitations on models?

No, we do not have size limitations on the prototypes that we print. If the prototype is bigger than the build space, the CAD file will need to be divided and printed as separate pieces, then bonded together Additional fees may apply.

What is the turn around time on models?

Turn around time depends on the size and complexity of the design, but it could be as quick as 12 hours.

What happens if the file is incorrect?

The .stl will be analyzed to ensure that it can be printed properly. We will contact you if there is a problem. You can revise the file yourself, or we can fix it for you. Additional fees may apply.

Do you offer hi-res SLA?

Yes. We offer hi-res SLA called viper.

What other materials do you offer?

- ABS is the material of choice by leading manufacturers and engineers. Because of its strength, it lends itself to be a true representation of the actual product. It is also very popular due to its ability to be post processed or finished.
- Acrylic polymers
- Polycarbonate
- Polycarbonate ABS blends
- Rubber-like flexible material

Do you offer model finishing?

We offer complete model finishing services from hand sanding to finish painting and any other process needed to give your sales\marketing sample quality models.
- Sanding
- Priming
- Painting: we can match any pantone, color chip, or automotive color
- Polishing
- Metallizing
- Graphic applications
- Lettering

Sculpture

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How long will this project take?

This varies based on the complexity and size of the project.

Can you do articulated figure work?

Yes.

Are you able to sculpt mechanical/organic pieces?

Yes.

Prototyping

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What is prototyping?

A prototype is the original or model on which product is based or formed. In this case a consumer, juvenile, or medical product. These are used for proof of concept, engineering, sales and manufacturing.

What types of prototyping exist?

All types for all kinds of needs, just take a couple of minutes to go through our portfolio.

How long have you been in business?

Empire has been in business for more than 15 years.

How do I get a quote?

By contacting any of the personnel in any of the process sections we offer, or by filling out the Get a Quote Form.

What file types can I send you?

Any 3D data file or 2D drawing file.

How long will it take for me to receive a quote?

Most quotes are turned around in less than 1 day.

How long will it take for delivery?

Depends on the scope of work, but if you have a deadline we will make it.

What payment options are available?

VISA, MasterCard, Discover and/or purchase orders are accepted. Payment terms are net 30 days.

Do I have a choice of finishing options?

We offer different levels of all finishes.

Can I use my own shipping account?

Yes.

Do you ship outside of the US?

Yes.

What type of parts can you make?

We work with all medias from metals, plastics, foam, and wood.

What do you recommend for gluing parts?

We recommend you call us, as there are different glues for different applications.

What do you recommend for cleaning painted prototype parts?

Soft cotton clothes and glass cleaner.

How large a part can you make?

We have made parts as small as hearing aids to as large as child play yards.

Can you work from a sketch or DXF?

Yes.

When should I consider RTV molding and cast urethane prototypes?

You should consider this when you will have multiple parts or sets of parts.

How long will it take to get cast urethane prototypes?

Most parts start delivery within 2 weeks.

Manufacturing

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What are the differences between short run and full production?

Short runs are low quantities usually below 1000 pieces and are also one time runs. Full production runs pertain to items that require annual runs with volumes exceeding 5000 pieces per run.

What are the costing advantages?

Tooling can be as much as 30% cheaper than full production tooling.

What are the timing advantages?

Tooling can usually be produced in less than half the time of full production tooling, in some cases within 1 to 2 weeks.

Urethane Casting

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What colors can you match?

We can match any color. We can work from a swatch, Pantone color, or an existing production part... ANYTHING.

How many castings can you get from a mold?

We can usually pull 20-30 castings from a mold, but it can be reduced depending on the complexity of the piece.

How long does it take to get molds and castings?

It usually takes a minimum of 2 days to produce a set of molds. Castings can take a minimum of a few hours to cure.