Material Choices and Benefits for Metal Prototypes

Material Choices and Benefits for Metal Prototypes

In response to customer demand, metal prototyping has rapidly grown to become the solution of choice for a wide range of industries. Through these processes, advanced prototyping companies can rapidly produce high-quality parts made from a variety of metallic materials.

1. Methods and applications of metal prototypes

For the fabrication of metal prototypes, there are several options available and emerging:

1. Process prototypes from Metal Stock;

2. 3D printing using various new commercial technologies;

3. Use wax mold for investment or plaster casting;

4. Prototype sand casting or prototype die casting using temporary tools.

For the manufacture of metal prototypes, manufacturers must consider the benefits of each process and weigh the impact of material properties, cost, and their similarity to production intent on the chosen process.

2. Metal selection for metal prototyping

Although desirable, there are times when metal rapid prototyping requires a different material than a finished product. For example, if the production of aluminum castings is intended to be manufactured using high pressure die casting, a die cast aluminum alloy such as A380 is often chosen. If the part is a prototype made by an alternate method, the alloy may vary due to machining needs.

In these cases, it is best to evaluate and compare the mechanical and thermal properties of the material used to determine how best to correlate the final test results. Aluminum and steel are the most commonly used materials for metal prototypes, but titanium, chromium-based alloys, copper, magnesium, and other metals are used for specific applications. Based on the material in thermal conductivity, strength.

3. Capability of metal prototype products

Automotive, medical, aviation, construction, aerospace, technical design and other industries often choose metal components in their designs for multiple advantages.

1. Heat resistance - For metal prototyping and product manufacturing, metals have a higher melting point than plastics. Therefore, there is less risk of degradation when exposed to high temperatures.

2. Incredible strength - Metals, especially stainless steel, are strong, hard and extremely durable. Metal can withstand just about anything and hold the design perfectly, even when making detailed prototypes.

3. Versatility - Using metal provides versatility. Since manufacturers can use this material for a wider range of processes, it enables design freedom and performance in a range of applications.

4. Cost-effectiveness - In many cases, metal is a more cost-effective option than plastic, which may be counterintuitive to some. This makes it an excellent potential way to reduce costs in certain applications.