Rapid Prototyping is an essential part of modern manufacturing.  Used in part replication, it helps generate samples or simulations that allow greater understanding of the complexities, curvature, general shape and space constraints of a component or alternatively, as production tooling itself.  This capability has distinct benefits as it is quickly formed, is a cost-effective solution, especially for small, low volume parts and the entire process, from design concept through to final commodity, is maintained in-house.

As a result, production timeframes and product costs are very controllable and especially so over traditional tooling types such as model board or steel.  The other advantages are; parts made using this process reduces design risks, controls material usage, allows visualisation of how a component will appear and if required, permits functionality testing – all on a fast turnaround basis.

Darchem Engineering have two Fused Deposition Modelling (FDM) 3D printing machines located onsite for manufacturing press form tooling, part assembly tooling and demonstration parts.  A dedicated design and manufacture team have the ability to rapidly turnaround tooling and parts to the most demanding customer schedules.  The machines print from a wide range of materials including ABS, ASA, Polycarbonate and Ultem utilising their strength and thermal properties as required.  Machine bed dimensions of 900mm x 600mm x 600mm enable printing of large footprint tooling.