Applications of Rapid Prototyping & CNC

Stereolithography (SLA)

 is the most accurate and versatile rapid prototyping technology available. SLA prototypes are built from a liquid photopolymer that is selectively cured using an ultraviolet laser. Due to their accuracy and ability to reproduce fine details, SLA models are perfect for use as concept models, form-and-fit studies, functional testing, and as master patterns for a variety of molding techniques.

Stereolithography or SLA^® Systems use 3-D CAD data to convert liquid plastic materials and composites into solid cross-sections, layer by layer, to build highly accurate three-dimensional parts. An ultraviolet laser cures a liquid resin into very thin layers, including interior and exterior cavities, to closely mimic injection-molded parts. SLA Systems rapidly manufacture parts of different geometries at the same time and are designed to produce prototypes, patterns or end-use parts of versatile sizes and applications.

Object PolyJet Matrix printing

 technology works by jetting state of the art photopolymer materials in ultra-thin layers (16µ) onto a build tray layer by layer until the part is completed. Each photopolymer layer is cured by UV light immediately after it is jetted, producing fully cured models that can be handled and used immediately, without post-curing. The gel-like support material, which is specially designed to support complicated geometries, is easily removed by hand and water jetting.

Objet's patent-pending PolyJet Matrix technology works by jetting two distinct Objet FullCure^® photopolymer model materials in preset combinations. This process has the unique capability to build parts in a rigid material (Shore D), Rubber-like material (Shore A) or a combination of the two in a single build. The dual-jet process can combine materials in several ways, enabling the simultaneous use of two different rigid materials, two flexible materials, one of each type, any combination with transparent material, or two jets of the same material. The capability to simultaneously build with multiple materials opens up new opportunities for final product realization at an early stage, including feasibility testing and over-molding process simulation. The parts have smooth and durable surfaces, with exceptionally fine details and an outstanding surface finish.

The Eden500V™ 3-Dimensional Printing System is the ideal solution for large-size model requirements or when high productivity is vital. Its build size of up to 500 x 400 x 200mm eliminates the need to glue smaller pieces together for large models and enables simultaneous printing of multiple models on a single build tray - cutting production time for models of all sizes.

Objet's Connex500™ 3-D Printing System is based on Objet's unique PolyJet Matrix™ Technology. The Connex500 offers the unique ability to print parts and assemblies made of multiple model materials, with different mechanical or physical properties, all in a single build. Going further, the Connex500 can also fabricate Digital Materials™ on the fly, enabling users to create composite materials that have preset combinations of mechanical properties. The Connex500 3-D Printing System works with FullCure model and support materials and Objet Studio for Connex™ software.

FDM

 process works by extruding a thermoplastic material and depositing it layer-by-layer fusing it to the layer beneath it, to form a 3-D model. FDM creates functional prototypes using a variety of engineering materials like ABS, and polycarbonate.