Contrary to some views, it is possible to create small features in aluminum molds. Quickturn injection molding, using a combination of CNC machining and Electrical Discharge Machining, is one method. Service bureaus continue to develop new … [Read more...] about EDM Delivers Feature Rich Injection Molded Parts Fast
Subtractive Fabrication
Hybrid Machining with CNC
Subtractive manufacturing (CNC machining) offers high quality geometric and material properties but is slow, costly, and not feasible in some cases. On the other hand, additive manufacturing (rapid prototyping) has total automation but may compromise … [Read more...] about Hybrid Machining with CNC
Roland’s Newest 3D Desktop Milling Machine
Irvine, CA — Roland DGA Corp. has announced its newest 3D desktop milling machine, the MDX-40A. The MDX-40A builds on Roland’s advanced Subtractive Rapid Prototyping (SRP) technology with new features, bundled software and valuable options that … [Read more...] about Roland’s Newest 3D Desktop Milling Machine
More Geometries and Automatic Tool-Paths Expand Subtractive RP Use
Even though additive rapid prototyping receives most of the news buzz in the industry, don’t overlook subtractive rapid prototyping. Recent developments in subtractive RP can help you eliminate even more steps and costs in your development process; … [Read more...] about More Geometries and Automatic Tool-Paths Expand Subtractive RP Use
Modern Prototypes Help Old Fighter Fly Again
Connecticut Corsair, Chester, CT, is restoring an F4U Corsair fighter aircraft, a complex World War II fighter plane. The company is restoring the “main beam,” or spar, using SolidWorks 3D CAD design software. The beam is the most heavily … [Read more...] about Modern Prototypes Help Old Fighter Fly Again
Technology Improves Process for Making Implants
Changes are coming to the way orthopedic implants are produced. According to James R. Schroeder, founder of Vantus Technology, traditional processes used wrought stock, and cast or forged parts, followed by machining and grinding to produce the … [Read more...] about Technology Improves Process for Making Implants
Military Applications in Combat Support
Manufacturing by the removal of material may be among the oldest of human endeavors. As Brad Cleveland, CEO of Proto Labs likes to explain, the “Stone Age” takes its name from the process of chipping away unwanted rock to yield useful … [Read more...] about Military Applications in Combat Support
NBGE Invests $52 Million in Proto Labs, Inc.
MAPLE PLAIN, Minn. -- Proto Labs, Inc. announces that North Bridge Growth Equity (NBGE) has made a minority investment of $52 million in the company. The capital will be used to help fund Proto Labs' growth initiatives, while providing liquidity to … [Read more...] about NBGE Invests $52 Million in Proto Labs, Inc.
New CAM Software for RP & Custom Rapid Manufacturing
IRVINE, CA - Roland DGA Corporation introduces SRP Player Pro – new CAM software that simplifies production and delivers an exceptional surface finish. Compatible with all Roland SRP® milling devices, SRP Player Pro sells for $4,500 and is ideal for … [Read more...] about New CAM Software for RP & Custom Rapid Manufacturing
Subtractive vs. Additive Prototyping
Building a wall out of bricks and creating a plastic part out of plastic layers are both additive processes. As such, they share several advantages. Both are relatively simple, inexpensive, and repetitive—brick is piled on brick; plastic layer is … [Read more...] about Subtractive vs. Additive Prototyping