Most aluminum prototype companies use CNC machining. Using numerical control machine tools, this method produces prototypes in the shortest time possible and very precisely. In addition, this method is convenient because you can alter digital CAD designs.
Despite been compatible with most metal materials, this process works best with aluminum alloys. In addition, as a subtractive manufacturing method, it leads to material wastage.
CNC machining uses 4-axis and 5-axis CNC machines to create complex parts with detailed features.
This fabrication is a group of processes that involves the deformation, cutting, and assembly of aluminum sheets. It’s used to make functional prototypes such as enclosures and industrial parts.
When creating a functional metal prototype, manufacturers use laser cutting, punching, bending, and welding procedures. To maintain quality, it’s beneficial to use the same sheet metal techniques during prototyping and production.
The downside of this technique is that it might be more expensive than the other processes if multiple techniques are required. For example, a single part may need a laser cutter and punching machine, while with CNC machining, it would just need one machine.
You can choose this method if you need a range of fabrication services or several prototype copies.
Casting involves pouring melted aluminum liquid into a mold to create a prototype. Since it requires specialist equipment, the process of creating a mold is expensive. Because of this, it’s more suitable for mass production.
Manufacturers can incorporate 3D printing and CNC machining in the casting process to reduce the production costs of metal prototypes. However, the production quality is good and creates strong parts that clients can use in different industrial applications.
Ideally, not considered as a prototyping process, extrusion is used by manufacturers to create the original parts. During extrusion, materials are forced to go through a shaped open mold to produce an elongated part.
Aluminum prototypes that manufacturers can make via this process include metal bars, brackets, and joints. However, due to the high cost, most extrusion companies specialize in high-volume orders.
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