I have an invention that my mentor and I have been working on for the last 6 months. We have all of the drawings done and are ready to start on a prototype. I am having a hard time finding a company that will make just one specific part that I need without charging me an arm and a leg. Any help or advice is greatly appreciated.
Thank You,
Jack Hinds
Answers
Stereolithography 3D printers can print objects at very precise resolution.
Here is a guide :
https://all3dp.com/best-resin-dlp-sla-3d-printer-stereolithography/
Formlabs Form 2
Predictability is one of the strengths of SLA 3D printers like the Form 2. It points a high precision laser on a tray of liquid resin, which causes a thin layer to solidify. This chemical reaction allows for the creation of water-tight printed parts.
There are several Form 2 resin types to choose from. The resins consist of methacrylic acid esters, photoinitiators, proprietary pigment, and other secret ingredients.
https://www.amazon.com/Formlabs-Form-2-3D-Printer/dp/B015OTAAYM/ref=cm_cr_arp_d_product_top?ie=UTF8
Neil,
I have looked into getting a mold but it is expensive and since this is just a prototype I do not want to pay the money for a mold until I know that the prototype is going to be functional. Thank you for your input and advice.
John,
Thank you for your input but the part I am trying to make is a small sawtooth piece that needs to be pretty precise. I have got in touch with machine shops and am trying to get quotes.
Find a tool and die guy...it may also be a gal...in your area....the screw machine with computer aided control is what you are looking for. A good machine person...one person shop....can start with a piece of metal or plastic and end up with what you want. As with anything you make...one of .. make sure you retain your molds....this will stop knock offs made by a competitor.
Make your own parts in your garage. Outsourcing fabrication only makes financial sense when you need tens of thousands of the same part.
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