01
CNC machining
Metal and plastic components machined from stock. A route to assess for defined material grades, mating features, threads and critical dimensions.
Explore CNC machining ↗From CAD to the next design decision
Rapid
prototyping.
CNC, sheet metal, 3D printing, vacuum casting and prototype tooling. Choose the process around what your sample needs to prove.
Five process routesSelect around geometry, material and purpose
From sample to short runInclude the next quantity in the brief
Engineering-reviewed quotesAgree scope, acceptance and schedule
Start with the question
What does your
prototype need to prove?
A presentation model, an assembly sample and a loaded test part ask different things of the material and process. Choose a starting point, then bring the critical requirements into the review.
A useful starting point
See the form. Refine the surface.
Consider 3D printing for an early model, or vacuum casting when several samples need a consistent cosmetic finish. Mark visible faces, color, texture and transparency so the material and finishing route can be reviewed.
Five routes. One engineering brief.
Build around
the part and the test.
Geometry, material fidelity, surface quality and likely design changes shape the manufacturing route. CNC and sheet metal remain part of the same prototyping conversation.
Keep the next step in view.
Share the first quantity and the likely next run. A sample for appearance review may use a different material or process from the part intended for service.
Compare the trade-offs ↓02
Sheet metal fabrication
Enclosures, panels and brackets built around cutting, bending and joining. Review the assembled condition, hardware and finishing together.
Explore sheet metal ↗03
3D printing
Models and complex shapes made through an additive route. Select the process and exact material around surface detail, geometry and test conditions.
Explore 3D printing ↗04
Vacuum casting
Repeated PU resin parts made from a master and silicone mold. Consider the route for cosmetic samples and small runs with an agreed appearance.
Explore vacuum casting →05
Rapid tooling
Prototype mold tooling for molded samples and short-run requirements. Compare tooling investment, production resin, sample approval and expected repeats.
Explore rapid tooling ↗Compare before you commit
The right route depends
on what matters most.
Use these differences to frame the discussion. The drawing, quantity and intended test establish the project-specific recommendation.
| Process | Useful when | Material & test considerations | Tooling & design changes |
|---|---|---|---|
| CNC machining | Defined interfaces and machined geometry govern the test | Specify stock grade, condition and final surface | Review access, setups and changes to geometry |
| Sheet metal | The sample is a panel, formed part or enclosure | Specify sheet grade, thickness and assembled condition | Review bends, joining and any dedicated tools |
| 3D printing | Iteration or complex geometry is the priority | Properties depend on process, material and orientation | No dedicated cavity mold; support and finish still matter |
| Vacuum casting | Several similar cosmetic or assembly samples are needed | PU resin can simulate selected thermoplastic properties | Master and silicone mold reproduce an approved revision |
| Rapid tooling | Molded parts and the specified resin must be assessed | Confirm the actual molding material and trial conditions | Separate tool investment, sample approval and repeat pricing |
Material fidelity
Match the material
to the test.
An appearance match, a fit check and a service-life test need different evidence. Include temperature, loading, fluids and test duration when performance matters.
Stock & molding materials
Specify the actual grade.
CNC stock, sheet materials and molding resins have their own supply conditions. Identify the grade and the properties the sample needs to represent.
Cast polyurethane
Review the simulated behavior.
ABS-like and PP-like describe selected similarities. Choose the exact PU resin against the relevant tests and data sheet.
Additive materials
Include the build conditions.
Orientation, cure, porosity and post-processing can influence the result. Evaluate the complete process-material combination.
Look at the features
Different parts.
Different priorities.
These component and process references show the kinds of geometry worth discussing. Identify the features and acceptance criteria that matter for your own part.
Functional interfaces
Define the fit, datums and material condition around holes, pockets and mating surfaces.
RIBS & MOUNTING LUGS01
Assembly geometry
Bring the enclosure, mounting hardware and finished dimensions into the same review.
FORMED COMPONENT02
Visible surfaces
Agree clarity, color, texture and the faces that govern the appearance sample.
COSMETIC REQUIREMENTS03
From drawing to a useful sample
Plan the decision
after the prototype.
Tell us what the part needs to prove and what happens next. Engineering review establishes the route, scope, price and schedule before production is approved.
Share the purpose
Send the CAD, drawing revision, intended tests, material requirements and quantity breaks.
Review the route
Resolve geometry, materials, finishing and any trade-offs before confirming the quotation.
Agree acceptance
Identify critical dimensions, appearance references and any sample or inspection approval.
Define the next run
Record design changes and test findings before choosing a repeat or production route.
Quality & documentation
Make acceptance
part of the brief.
State which features need checking and which documents the project requires. Application-specific qualification, traceability and testing need an agreed scope.
- Controlled drawing revision, material and sample purpose.
- Critical dimensions, datums and measurement conditions.
- Cosmetic references and agreed inspection records.
- Separate requirements for application-specific tests or qualification.
Before the first sample
A clearer brief.
A more useful quote.
Start with what you know. Include the requirements that could change the process or the way the sample is accepted.
Can you help me select the process?
Describe the sample purpose, geometry, material requirements, quantities and tests. The review can compare suitable routes and clarify the conditions before a quotation is confirmed.
What if I do not have a complete drawing?
Share the model or available information and explain what remains open. A controlled drawing and material definition may be needed before manufacturing feasibility, price or acceptance can be confirmed.
Will the prototype behave like the production part?
That depends on the material, process and test. A cast or printed sample may suit appearance or assembly checks while representing different mechanical, thermal or aging behavior from the intended production part.
Can I compare prototype and repeat quantities?
Include the quantity breaks and likely revisions. Ask for sample cost, tooling investment, repeat pricing and the assumptions behind each route to be separated.
How are price and delivery time confirmed?
The quotation follows engineering review. Geometry, material sourcing, tooling, finishing, inspection and shipping affect the schedule. Include the required date and any sample-approval gate.
Can we arrange an NDA before sharing files?
Contact the team to arrange an NDA and the submission channel before sharing confidential files.