CNC machined parts in three days. How do Prototype Projects Ltd do that?
Prototype Projects Ltd says: CNC machined metal and plastic parts are often key components in prototypes. Furthermore, CNC machining is a versatile and cost-effective way to manufacture end-use parts. With our customers under ever-increasing time pressure, we identified a need for a faster turnaround for CNC machined parts. Consequently, we invested in people and processes so we could offer an…
Choosing a 3D printing technology: when is PolyJet best?
Every 3D printing technology has its advantages and disadvantages. This is why we have several different technologies here at Prototype Projects – so we can always offer the optimum for making any given part. For some projects, SLA might be ideal; for others, SLS could be better. In this article we are taking a detailed look at PolyJet to see when this might be the best 3D printing technology for…
When to choose SLA over other 3D printing technologies
Prototype Projects says: SLA (stereo lithography apparatus) is one of five 3D printing technologies that we have in-house at Prototype Projects. The reason we have so many is that none is ideal for every application. Unlike prototyping bureaux that specialise in one technology, we have several so we can offer the optimum to suit any given component and the customer’s requirements.
Does CNC machining mimic production parts?
The Prototype Projects teams says: we are sometimes asked ‘How closely does CNC machining mimic production parts that will be injection moulded or die cast?’ The answer is not straightforward. This article looks at some of the factors that can have an impact.
Developing protection products for the construction industry
With limited solutions available to minimise the risk to construction workers, StrucTemp Innovation asked LUMA-iD to develop a range of protection products which are now known as the Buddy range. Prototype Projects vacuum cast the prototypes for design verification.
Why does build orientation matter for 3D printing?
Prototype Projects says: when customers order 3D printed parts, we may well ask a few questions to clarify certain points. This helps us to deliver parts that are fit for purpose. One of the most common questions relates to build orientation. But why does build orientation matter for 3D printing?
Using vacuum casting for overmoulding and insert moulding
Vacuum casting is an invaluable process for prototyping and low volume production. It is commonly utilised during most phases of product development projects across a diverse range of industries. If small volumes are required, vacuum casting is extremely quick and cost-effective compared with commissioning aluminium soft tooling for injection moulding.
Prototyping processes and technologies all under one roof with Prototype Projects
Prototype Projects says: There’s no denying the convenience of one-stop-shopping, whether it is supermarkets, DIY superstores or online with the likes of Amazon and eBay. The same is true for product developers – most of them probably have accounts with RS. But what about prototyping? Here at Prototype Projects, we are unusual in that we offer everything under one roof.
Prototype Projects secures successful ISO 9001 re-certification
Prototype Projects says:Prototype Projects is delighted to have, once again, secured a successful ISO 9001 Re-certification Audit. Continuous improvement is of paramount importance to the team, and we are continually learning and growing through experience and customer feedback.
What can you expect from 3D printing?
In an ideal world, a 3D printed part would be a dimensionally perfect representation of the designed part, have identical material properties, and producing it would take no time and cost nothing. But the world is not perfect (far from it, at times), so what can you expect from 3D printing?
Is metal 3D printing right for my part?
From time to time, customers ask whether Prototype Projects Ltd offer metal 3D printing of prototype parts. They are usually already aware of the team's capabilities in 3D printed plastic parts, CNC machining, laser cutting, vacuum casting and model making, but maybe they have designed a part that they think is a candidate for 3D printing in metal.The simple answer is no, Prototype Projects Ltd…
Finishing options for CNC machined prototype parts
CNC milling and turning are versatile, cost-effective and accurate, yet the possibilities for CNC machined parts expand even further when additional finishes are considered. What are the options? While that sounds like a simple question, the answer is complex because there are so many factors to consider.
Prototype Projects delivers an express CNC service to support product development
The challenge: deliver an Express service for CNC machining to support the fast-paced world of product development. How did Prototype Projects deliver its three-day dispatch CNC service?
NeedleDock prevents needlestick injuries in an eco-friendly, sustainable way
NeedleDock was developed to address the significant number of accidents that are caused as a result of needle disposal. These often unreported incidents present substantial risks to healthcare workers. With CAD designs finished and intellectual property secured, Prototype Projects was approached to 3D print and dye NeedleDock.
CNC machining for prototypes
Although 3D printing may be the fashionable face of prototyping, CNC machining remains the better technology for many components. Prototype Projects explores how...
Prototyping medical devices for patient contact
Prototype Projects outlines its medical device prototyping capability.
Cambridge partners help to take 3D model to award-winning E-Bike in record time
When Craig McDonald saw the first iteration of E-Bikes in 2012, he began sketching. A few designs, some CNC machining and an award later, the first Evari bike is set to hit the market.
Driving vision: from strategy to delivery
Running a family business can be all-consuming but, at the same time, incredibly rewarding. Here’s the journey of Justin Pringle whose career has seen him develop from a Volvo apprentice to become the owner and managing director of Prototype Projects.
Prototype Projects produces over one million parts for the DnaCartridge
Prototype Projects says: "We make prototypes but when a customer needed a boost in production, we delivered the goods. We've now produced over 1,000,000 parts which, given our remit as a prototyping company, is something of an achievement!"
Prototype Projects clebrates the fifth anniversary of its 3D Printing Suite
On this day – 8th July – in 2016, Prototype Projects' 3D Printing suite was opened by local MP, Sir Oliver Heald. The 2,000 sq. ft. 3D Printing suite more than doubled the overall size of the firm's facilities in Royston; it also extended its range of services and its capacity.
Prototype Projects produces a point of care diagnostic device for TTP
After considering several alternative prototyping bureaus at various price-points and quality levels, The Technology Partnership (TTP) engaged Prototype Projects who, using their high-quality, industry-standard SLA machines, produced exceptional prototypes.
Caring for the mental health of staff
In an age where one in four people will experience a mental health problem of some kind each year, the team at Prototype Projects knows that caring for mental health is just as important as caring for physical health in the workplace.
Product development is not so different to Formula One racing
Product development is not so different to Formula One racing really. It's not all about the driver, it's about the team's journey, together.
An apprentice's journey to team manager
Prototype Projects has a long history of employing apprentices since it was established in 1980. Its General Manager, Gary Turner, was the firm's first ever apprentice at the age of 16 and he is still there over 40 years later, now passing on his knowledge to other colleagues and apprentices.
Professional prototyping encourages lockdown STEM student
GCSEs cancelled and an extra long summer was the unexpected reality for students in 2020, but how did 16-year-old Oscar Moden fill the void? With a STEM challenge from Cambridge Consultants and a prototyping invitation from Prototype Projects, of course!