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Rapid Prototyping ServicesRapid prototyping provides an array of services depending on the particular needs and expectations for a model. A component that is not expected to endure pressure and force can easily and accurately be made using 3D printing, and is good for the visualization stage of designing and implementing components. Some components, however, are meant to withstand a bit more wear and tear as engineers test them to see how the end product will fit into other parts of the final product and double check for flaws. Ste  reolithography is one process through which engineers create precise part models that can be manipulated in much the same way as the end product.Stereolithography (SLS), like most rapid prototyping services, is an additive process, which means that the component is built a layer at a time, with each additional layer adhering to and adding strength to the preceding layer. Using a base material of photopolymer resin, a UV laser beam traces the design outline. Exposure to UV solidifies the design on the resin, resulting in a newly formed layer and joining it to previously formed layers. After each layer has been formed and the component is complete, the part is submerged in a chemical bath to remove excess resin. Finally, the part is placed in a UV oven for the final stage of curing. In order to ensure proper formation of the component during SLS, assistive devices must be in place to hold the component steady and enable accurate and precise geometric formation. Otherwise, the part risks becoming severely compromised. In order to make sure the supports are right for a given application, they are designed using the same CAD program as is used to design the model. This way, the dimensions of the support and its interaction with the component during the process are specific and precise. After the process is finished, the supports should be removed manually. The amount of time it takes to generate a component using SLA ranges from a few hours to a whole day, depending on the level of complexity and overall size. Generally speaking, the maximum size a component can reach is 20 X 20 X 24 inches. In terms of testing, the components can be used for injection molding, blow molding, thermoforming, and in several kinds of metal casting processes in much the same way the end product will be used, to check for structural integrity, design accuracy, and efficiency. SLA is not limited in the range of shapes and geometries it can produce, but does tend to be expensive. Different photopolymers are used as the base material in SLA, such as epoxy-based polymers and various hybrids that can substitute for acrylates. Newer photopolymer resins are greener, can resist higher temperatures, and generally have a lower absorption rate than older acrylates. Hybrids offer a wider range of curing options and also exhibit mechanical properties akin to those of polycarbonate plastics. Additionally, photopolymer products can be used in short run rapid manufacturing and to make small replacement products for some plane components. Manipulation and determination of the final component’s characteristics begins with the selection of the photopolymer. Depending on the type of rapid prototyping, different photopolymers can be employed to achieve certain predictable results. Based on the values of a manufacturer, be they biocompatibility, strength, or affordability, different base resins will appropriately serve a given application. For more information regarding the Rapid Prototyping process, watch the video below:
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