Rapid Prototyping

Prototyping in ABS Plastic

How does Rapid Prototyping (RP) Work? Rapid prototyping (RP) is a technology that takes a three-dimensional computer model and builds a three dimensional part by building layer upon layer of material. Its speed and low cost allow design teams to confirm their new designs early and frequently in the process.

FDM - Fused Deposition Modeling

Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) is a solid-based rapid prototyping process that extrudes production-type materials, layer by layer, to build a 3D model. The build material is added to the FDM machine in a filament form contained in a cartridge.

The FDM machine feeds the material from the cartridge up to a head that heats and melts the material. The head traverses in an X and Y direction and extrudes material onto a platform to create a two-dimensional cross section of the model. The material quickly solidifies, and the build platform drops where the next layer is extruded upon the first. This process continues until the 3D model is complete. FDM prototypes are high strength, they are functional hands-on prototypes.

Build Limitations
the Stratasys DIMENSION BST and SST machines have a platform which allow production of parts with a maximum build size of 8x8x12" (203mm x 203mm x 305mm).  Larger parts are not a problem! We can slice oversized parts into multiple STL files to be built separately and then assembled.  Prototypes produced by the Dimension machines listed above have build limitations of 0.010" (0.25mm) along the X and Y axis, and 25.4mm along the Z axis.  The minimum wall thickness for a part is: .050 inches or 1.27 millimeters.

View some recent samples