Checklist for Rapid Prototyping / Tooling
Each of the following points has a unique impact on your available choices for a successful prototyping program.
Things to remember as you venture into Rapid Prototyping/Rapid Tooling:
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Part geometry
- Establishes the most appropriate process given the part configuration.
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Part features
- Which features can be cast and which will require secondary operations.
- Can your choice of prototyping process support all features?
- Can your choice of casting processes support these features?
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Quantity
- How many parts need to be produced?
- Will the selected Tooling options support this quantity?
- Can the quantity needed be produced cost-effectively in the time available?
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Casting Process
- What is the best casting option?
- What Rapid Tooling options are compatible?
- Is casting the best way to produce this part?
- Do part configuration or quantity issues drive me toward a machined hog-out? A “quick die”?
- Does the casting facility understand my needs?
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Changes
- What is the likelihood of changes after initial parts are produced.
- Will my choice of process support changes?
- Will the simple changes to part configuration force me to start over?