Exploring the micro world of PµSL: Accuracy in 3D printing for micro-scale applications
In the realm of 3D printing, rapid advancements in technology are unlocking new possibilities for design engineers, product designers, and engineers. One such breakthrough is Projection Micro Stereolithography (PµSL), a high-resolution additive manufacturing technology that enables the creation of intricate micro-scale structures with unmatched accuracy. This article, by Prototype Projects,…
Harnessing 3D printing for complex jigs and fixtures
In this article, Prototype Projects explore the benefits of using 3D printing for jigs and fixtures, with an overview of key 3D printing technologies that enable these innovations.
Prototype Projects achieves ISO 14001 accreditation: a milestone in sustainable prototyping
Prototype Projects writes: we are thrilled to announce that we have achieved ISO 14001 accreditation, marking a significant milestone in our ongoing commitment to environmental sustainability. This prestigious accreditation is recognised globally as a benchmark for effective environmental management systems, demonstrating our dedication to reducing our environmental impact.
The art of dimensioning CAD drawings for CNC machining: a traditional fraftsman's approach
The meticulous art of dimensioning CAD drawings remains pivotal to the creation of high-quality CNC machined parts. The idea of a drawing is to convey information, without the need for verbal instruction. While modern software provides a plethora of tools to assist engineers and designers, the foundational principles laid down by traditional draftsmen continue to be indispensable. These…
Prototype Projects invests in cutting-edge vacuum casting machine
Prototype Projects, a leading provider of rapid prototyping and low-volume manufacturing solutions, has reached a new pinnacle in its production capabilities with the successful installation of the Scott AM 1000 series vacuum casting machine. This cutting-edge equipment represents a significant leap forward for the company, promising to revolutionise its casting processes and deliver unmatched…
Revolutionising sensing technology - Silicon Microgravity (a case study)
Silicon Microgravity (SMG) is pushing the boundaries of sensing technology. Their latest advancement in gravity sensors involved employing techniques such as CNC machining and 3D printing. This innovation paves the way for groundbreaking applications in civil engineering, geo-monitoring, defence, and more.
Prototype Projects unveils new CNC Production Service for small batch work
Prototype Projects, a leading name in the prototyping and low-volume production industry, has announced the launch of its new CNC Production service. This service is specifically designed to cater to the growing demand for small batch CNC work, further expanding the company's robust portfolio of manufacturing solutions.
Igniting Inspiration – Bluebird Sapheria’s journey with Prototype Projects
The Bluebird Sapheria project team worked with Prototype Projects to bring a replica turbine to life. Born from a dream to inspire the next generation of innovators, the project ignited a spark that would light the way for young minds into the world of STEM.
Helicopter model development for Essex & Herts Air Ambulance
Essex & Herts Air Ambulance (EHAAT), approached Prototype Projects with a unique request: to create a detailed helicopter model that would be a unique thank you in recognition of people making significant gifts to the charity.
New SLA material withstands 300°C
A new addition to Prototype Projects' portfolio of SLA materials builds parts that can withstand functional temperatures of 300°C. Developed by 3D Systems, the material is known as Accura AMX High Temp 300C.
Reflections on 2023 from Prototype Projects
Justin Pringle, MD of Prototype Projects, shares his reflections on 2023, a year focused on people and progress.
Larger billets for Express CNC machining
Prototype Projects now offer two larger sizes of billet for Express CNC machining using their five-axis vertical machining centres (VMCs). After extensive trials, they are satisfied that their robots, Rocky and Apollo, can handle these billets reliably and efficiently while tending the VMCs.
An update on new 5-axis CNC machining centres and robots from Prototype Projects
Prototype Projects writes...We’re pleased to formally announce that our new 5-axis machining centres and robots are now fully functional within our CNC department.
Professional model making – how is it done?
Professional model making is a core activity for us. In fact, Prototype Projects started in model making before expanding to provide CNC machining, 3D printing, vacuum casting and laser cutting. While these other services are self-explanatory, customers can view model making as something of a ‘black art’. In this article, therefore, we will explain how we go about making models – and how it is,…
Learning about CNC machining prototype parts
When it comes to making prototypes, the two manufacturing technologies most likely to be used are CNC machining and 3D printing. Everyone has their own understanding of what a prototype is, and this can vary significantly from one person to the next. For a word commonly used by engineers and designers, it is surprisingly ambiguous! In this article, we explore what's meant by 'prototype' and how…
What is Selective Laser Sintering?
Selective Laser Sintering, more commonly known as SLS, is one of the most popular technologies for 3D printing. We have three SLS 3D printers that are kept busy building prototype and end-use parts. In this article we take a detailed look at SLS technology, the material properties of SLS parts, advantages compared with other 3D printing technologies, and some typical applications.
Why and when to combine SLA and PµSL?
SLA (stereolithography apparatus) and PµSL (projection micro-stereolithography) both use high-powered laser light to cure a photopolymer resin – but that is where the similarity ends. These 3D printing technologies are excellent at what they do, yet each has its limitations. When you combine the two, you can benefit from the advantages of both. In this article, we look at why and when you might…
How big is your 3D Printing Wasteland?
Prototype Projects writes...if you work in product design and development, you most likely have a keen interest in seeing inventions come to life. It doesn’t make any difference if the inventions are your own or those of a client, there’s a real buzz to product development.
3D printing technologies compared: SLA vs DLP vs PµSL
Prototype Projects Ltd writes...unlike most rapid prototyping bureaux, we have five different 3D printing technologies. You might think this is excessive but the logic behind this is that no single technology can meet every part’s requirements. Three of the technologies we have, namely SLA, DLP and PµSL, use light to cure liquid photopolymer resins, referred to as photopolymerization. Although…
What do we mean by additive manufacturing?
Within the mainstream media there tends to be no differentiation between additive prototyping and additive manufacturing. Instead, journalists resort to the catch-all term 3D printing because non-technical audiences can visualise ‘printing’ parts in three dimensions. But, what is the difference? What do we mean by additive manufacturing?
What do we mean by additive prototyping?
Engineers and designers are careful with their choice of words. For example, to us, the terms ‘tolerance’ and ‘redundancy’ do not mean the same as they would for the average person. By using the correct language when communicating with each other, engineers and designers avoid ambiguity and confusion. However, technology evolves over time, and language is equally fluid. In this article, Prototype…
What is model making?
Model making means different things to different people and it is just one aspect of what we do now but it is where we started in 1980. In essence, model making is a fusion of technologies, techniques and, above all, skills.
What are the differences between CNC machining and 3D printing?
CNC machining and 3D printing are both rapid, versatile and cost-effective technologies for making prototype and end-use parts. However, if you study the two in detail, there are many small but important differences. When it comes to the question of which to use for a particular part, the answer usually starts with ‘It depends…’.
What are the material choices for SLA 3D printing?
SLA remains the best 3D printing technologies for many applications, despite being one of the first to be commercialised in the late 1980s. With SLA (stereolithography apparatus), a computer-controlled UV laser traces a path on the surface of a photopolymer (light-curing liquid resin). After the laser has cured each ‘slice’ of the part, the bed descends by a distance equal to the layer thickness…
When is SLS your best option for 3D printing?
If one 3D printing technology was ideal for every application, we would use it all the time. In reality, each technology has its own advantages and limitations, which is why we have invested in five different 3D printing technologies. One of these is Selective Laser Sintering (SLS), so when is SLS your best option for 3D printing?