Online Rapid Prototyping Services

Rapid 3D Printing, CNC Machining, and Injection Molding – Parts Ship in Days

Certifications

Choose the right rapid prototyping service for your product development needs.

Comparer les solutions d'usinage

Our Rapid Prototyping Capabilities

SLS Rapid Prototyping

SLS printing excels at creating robust, functional prototypes and end-use parts from plastic materials, offering excellent design freedom

SLA Rapid Prototyping

SLA printing is ideal for visually demanding applications, producing parts with a smooth, injection mold-like finish.

FDM Rapid Prototyping

FDM printing is a cost-effective solution for form and fit prototyping, offering a range of 12+ materials for basic design verification.

Rapid Prototyping Materials

Métal

Aluminium

For rapid prototyping, aluminum’s low density, good mechanical properties, and corrosion resistance make it a popular choice for CNC machining. Alloys like 6061-T651, 7075-T651, and 2024-T351 are frequently used due to their balance of strength, machinability, and cost-effectiveness in quickly producing functional prototypes.

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Laiton

Brass, a copper-zinc alloy, offers good corrosion resistance and tensile strength comparable to mild steel, making it suitable for rapid prototyping. Its excellent machinability allows for high feed rates and minimal coolant use, speeding up prototype production.

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Cuivre

Copper’s corrosion resistance, high electrical conductivity, and ductility make it useful for prototyping, particularly for electrical applications. Its distinctive reddish appearance and natural patina are also desirable for certain aesthetic prototypes. However, its moderate to poor weldability should be considered during the design phase.

 
 

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Acier inoxydable

Stainless steel’s excellent machinability, uniformity, workability, and weldability make it highly suitable for a wide range of CNC rapid prototyping projects. Its high ductility and formability ensure prototypes meet specific design requirements while offering durability and corrosion resistance.

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Alliage d'acier

Steel Alloy 4140, with its chromium, molybdenum, and manganese content, is a strong choice for demanding rapid prototyping applications. Its toughness, high fatigue strength, and resistance to abrasion and impact make it suitable for functional prototypes requiring durability and performance.

 

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Acier doux à faible teneur en carbone

Low carbon steel (mild steel), with its carbon content up to 0.30%, is well-suited for rapid prototyping where formability is prioritized over high strength. Its malleability and ductility allow for easier shaping and forming during prototype creation.

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Titane

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Plastiques

ABS

ABS is a cost-effective and easily machinable plastic well-suited for rapid prototyping. Its impact resistance, strength, and stiffness make it ideal for structural prototypes. Excellent dimensional stability, paintability, and ease of gluing make it popular for pre-production prototypes.

 
 

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Acétal

Delrin 570, a homopolymer acetal with 20% glass fiber, is excellent for rapid prototyping requiring high stiffness, minimal warpage, and low creep, especially in elevated temperature environments. 1  

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CPVC

CPVC (Chlorinated Polyvinyl Chloride) offers excellent corrosion resistance at high temperatures, making it ideal for self-supporting rapid prototypes where thermal stability is critical.

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Delrin

Delrin (POM) is a high-performance plastic ideal for rapid prototyping of parts requiring high mechanical strength. 1 Its stiffness, low friction, and wear resistance make it suitable for simulating gears, bushings, and bearings. 

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PEHD

HDPE is a lightweight, strong, and chemically resistant material suitable for rapid prototyping.  Its low moisture absorption and corrosion resistance make it useful for prototyping applications like orthotic/prosthetic devices, water storage components, and tanks. 

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LDPE

LDPE offers greater flexibility than HDPE while retaining its lightweight nature and chemical/corrosion resistance. 1 This high flexibility makes it well-suited for rapid prototyping of prosthetic devices and thermoformed parts.  

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Nylon

Nylon’s versatility and exceptional properties make it well-suited for rapid prototyping. 1 Its high tensile strength, low friction, and wear/abrasion resistance are ideal for simulating durable and reliable parts like gears, bushings, and bearings. 1 Low moisture absorption and good dimensional stability ensure consistent prototype

Its ease of machining, coupled with its chemical resistance, also makes it suitable for applications in the automotive, aerospace, and medical industries. With its remarkable combination of properties, nylon stands out as a versatile and reliable material for a diverse range of CNC machining applications.

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PEEK

PEEK is an excellent choice for rapid prototyping when thermal, chemical, and combustion properties are critical. Available in various forms (sheet, rod, tube, film), PEEK can be machined to create prototypes for demanding applications requiring high performance.

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PEI

ULTEM, a thermoplastic polyetherimide (PEI), is well-suited for rapid prototyping requiring a combination of exceptional mechanical, thermal, and electrical properties. Its key attributes—high strength, high heat resistance, and high stress resistance—make it ideal for demanding applications. 2 The natural material is translucent amber. 

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PET

PET (Polyethylene Terephthalate) is a versatile semi-crystalline thermoplastic polyester suitable for rapid prototyping of mechanical and electro-mechanical parts. It offers excellent wear resistance, low friction, high flexural modulus, and superior dimensional stability. 

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PMMA (Acrylique)

Acrylic (PMMA) is a versatile plastic ideal for rapid prototyping where optical clarity, light transmission, and UV resistance are important. This makes it suitable for prototypes of signage, displays, lenses, and lighting fixtures.

With its exceptional combination of optical clarity, machinability, and versatility, acrylic is an excellent choice for CNC machining applications that require precision and aesthetics.

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Polycarbonate

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Polypropylène

Polypropylene (PP) Copolymer is a versatile thermoplastic well-suited for rapid prototyping due to its ease of fabrication, resistance to cracking from vibration or wear, and suitability for applications requiring chemical resistance and/or FDA compliance.

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Polystyrène (HIPS)

High Impact Polystyrene (HIPS) is a cost-effective and easily machinable plastic suitable for rapid prototyping.  Its impact resistance, machinability, and low cost make it a good choice for low-strength structural prototypes. Dimensional stability, paintability, and ease of gluing further enhance its suitability for prototyping. 

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PPSU

RADEL R polyphenylsulfone resins are excellent for demanding rapid prototyping applications requiring exceptional hydrolytic stability and toughness at high temperatures. Its high deflection temperature, outstanding resistance to environmental stress cracking, inherent flame retardancy, excellent thermal stability, and good electrical properties make it a strong choice for challenging environments. 

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PSU

RADEL R polyphenylsulfone resins are ideal for rapid prototyping in demanding high-temperature applications. Their exceptional hydrolytic stability, toughness, high deflection temperature, and resistance to environmental stress cracking surpass other high-temperature engineering resins. Additionally, they offer inherent flame retardancy, excellent thermal stability, and good electrical properties. 

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PTFE

PTFE (Teflon) is a highly desirable material for rapid prototyping, especially for parts requiring low friction, such as bearings, bushings, and seals. 1Its non-stick properties and excellent chemical resistance also make it suitable for prototypes intended for harsh environments.   

Additionally, PTFE has a wide temperature range, from -200°C to +260°C, which makes it suitable for applications that require extreme temperature resistance. Its electrical insulation properties are also noteworthy, making it useful in electrical components and insulation.

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PVC

PVC is a highly versatile polymer suitable for rapid prototyping in applications requiring corrosion resistance, a good strength-to-weight ratio, and cost-effectiveness.

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NASA Generative Design X Quick-Turn Manufacturing (Conception générative X fabrication à rotation rapide)

Découvrez comment nous avons collaboré avec la NASA pour concevoir de manière générative un outil d'exploration de la lune dans un délai très court. 

 

In House Factories

We offer a range of capabilities through our in-house digital factories. If speed is essential, our factory capabilities have you covered, but if you’re in need of advanced capabilities and have more flexibility in your schedule, try our online quotation system.

Description
Taille maximale des pièces157.48 in. x 59.06 in. x 23.62 in. (4000 mm x 1500 mm x 600 mm)
Taille minimale des pièces0,20 po x 0,20 po x 0,20 po (5 mm x 5 mm x 5 mm)
Tolérances±0.0002 in.(0.005mm)
Volume de productionPrototypage : 1-100 pièces
Faible volume : 101-10 000 pièces
Volume élevé : Plus de 10 001 pièces
Capacités de l'usine
Dimensions maximalesDiamètre17 po (431 mm)
Longueur39 pouces (990 mm)
Dimensions minimalesDiamètre0,08 mm (0,003 po)
Longueur0,5 mm (0,019 in)
Épaisseur de la paroi0,004 po (0,1 mm)
AngleInférieur à 90
Tolérances±0,0002 in. (0,005mm)

Pièces finies en 4 jours seulement !

Obtenez des pièces usinées anodisées et chromatées grâce à notre option de finition à rotation rapide. Les matériaux éligibles comprennent l'aluminium 6061/6082 et 7075. Lancez votre prochain projet d'usinage dès aujourd'hui.

Why Choose Us for rapid prototyping?

Fast and Reliable Delivery

Rapid prototyping accelerates product development by enabling fast design iterations with quick-turn parts. Automated design analysis identifies potential machining challenges early, preventing costly rework later in the process.

Manufacturing Analysis and Online Quotes

Upon uploading your 3D CAD file for a quote, our system analyzes the part geometry to pinpoint potentially challenging-to-machine features, such as tall, thin walls or non-threadable holes, ensuring efficient and manufacturable prototype designs.

Domestic Production and Support

Partner with a domestic manufacturer for reliable rapid prototyping and avoid the complexities of overseas production. Our team is readily available via phone or email to assist with ordering, design feedback, material selection, and any other inquiries.

Infinite Capacity

Eliminate production bottlenecks and support your in-house capabilities with our on-demand rapid prototyping services, providing scalable capacity to meet your project needs.

Material Selection

We offer a wide selection of over 30 engineering-grade plastics and metals to meet diverse prototyping needs across various industries. Our material portfolio includes plastics like ABS, polycarbonate, nylon, and PEEK, as well as metals such as aluminum, stainless steel, platinum, and copper.

Advanced Capabilities

Through our manufacturing network, you can access a range of finishing options like plating (black oxide, nickel), anodizing (Type II and III), and chromate conversion coating, especially beneficial for larger production runs. We also offer tighter tolerances and volume-based pricing .

What is rapid prototyping and How Does it Work?

Rapid prototyping creates quick physical models from 3D CAD data. It uses additive manufacturing or 3D printing. Parts are built layer by layer. This allows fast design verification and testing. It also improves design communication.

The process starts with a 3D CAD model. It is sliced into thin layers. This data goes to the prototyping machine. The machine builds the part layer by layer. Technologies include SLA, SLS, FDM, and CNC machining. Each uses different materials and processes. This creates prototypes with varying accuracy and properties.

 

Advantages of Rapid Prototyping

Rapid prototyping offers several key benefits for product development:   

  • Quickly create and test multiple design variations
  • Identify and resolve design flaws early in the process.
  • Evaluate prototype performance and functionality.
  • Clearly communicate design intent to stakeholders.
  • Accelerate time-to-market with faster prototyping cycles.
  • Minimize tooling costs in initial design phases.  
Rapid Prototyping Applications

Rapid prototyping accelerates product development by quickly creating physical models for various purposes. It enables early design validation, functional testing, and improved communication.

  • Concept model creation
  • Form and fit testing
  • Functional part demonstration
  • Manufacturing process validation
  • Marketing and sales samples

Options de finition de surface et de post-traitement

Othala offre une variété d'options de finition de surface par usinage CNC pour répondre aux exigences de vos pièces. Des options de revêtement et de placage plus avancées sont également disponibles. 

Options de finition de surface :

  • Bords cassés avec traces d'outils visibles
  • Bords cassés par un léger microbillage
  • Arêtes vives (marques d'outils visibles)

Options de revêtement et de placage :

  • Anodisation 
  • Revêtement chromaté
  • Revêtement en poudre

 

Visitez notre atelier d'usinage (virtuellement)

Take a quick tour through our 215,000 sq. ft. CNC machining facility in Minnesota to see how we manufacture parts in as fast as 24 hours.

Que contient un devis CNC en ligne ?

Téléchargez un fichier CAO 3D de votre pièce usinée et, en quelques heures, nous vous enverrons une analyse de fabrication et un devis interactif. Dans votre devis, vous pouvez modifier les matériaux et les quantités et voir les mises à jour des prix en temps réel. De plus, dans votre analyse de fabrication, vous pouvez assigner le filetage d'un simple clic de souris.

Rapid Prototyping FAQs

How much does rapid prototyping cost?

Rapid prototyping costs vary depending on part complexity, order quantity, and required lead time, with prices starting around $65. The best way to get an accurate price is to submit your 3D CAD model for an instant quote that includes design for manufacturability (DFM) feedback. Our proprietary software and automated processes eliminate upfront non-recurring engineering (NRE) costs, making quantities from 1 to 200 parts cost-effective. While prices are comparable to or slightly higher than 3D printing, rapid prototyping often provides superior material properties and surface finishes.

A wide variety of materials can be used, depending on the chosen technology. Common materials include:

  • Plastics: ABS, polycarbonate, nylon, PLA, PETG, PEEK
  • Metals: Aluminum, stainless steel, titanium, copper, brass
  • Resins: Epoxy resins, photopolymers

The material selection depends on the desired properties of the prototype, such as strength, flexibility, temperature resistance, and surface finish.

Rapid prototyping is beneficial in several situations:

  • Early design stages: To visualize and evaluate design concepts.
  • Form and fit testing: To verify the physical dimensions and assembly of parts.
  • Functional testing: To assess the performance and functionality of a design.
  • Proof of concept: To demonstrate the feasibility of a new idea or technology.
  • Marketing and sales: To create visual aids and samples for presentations and demonstrations.

Rapid prototyping offers several key advantages:

  • Faster design cycles: Quickly iterate on designs and accelerate time-to-market.
  • Reduced development costs: Identify and fix design flaws early, minimizing costly rework later.
  • Improved design communication: Tangible prototypes facilitate better communication among designers, engineers, and clients.
  • Enhanced product quality: Thorough testing and refinement lead to improved product performance and reliability.
  • Early functional testing: Evaluate prototype functionality and identify potential issues before production.

Most rapid prototyping projects can be completed in a matter of days, and we offer fast global delivery. If you require a precise lead time, please submit your project to get a free quotation and lead time information at the same time.

Liens et ressources supplémentaires

Obtenez dès aujourd'hui un devis en ligne et une analyse de fabrication.

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