Vacuum molding is a copying technique that produces master model using stereolithography or laser sintering with a surface finish that is high in quality. A silicone mold is the produced by casting silicone round the master model under vacuum so that air bubbles are eliminated and avoided. It is then cured and the silicone cut to pre-defined planes before the master model is removed leaving cavity for copy making.
This is among the best rapid prototyping techniques especially for small series functional plastic parts. The fast production of vacuum casting has made it very popular and you can also trust in the quality of the prototypes or even end use products. Compared to injection molding, parts achieved by silicone molding are just as high in quality. The technique also offers varying finishing degrees so the parts meet your exact requirements. You should consider this kind of production method when you are looking for cost effective fast production for prototype series, conventional plastic manufacturing, multi material parts and even large parts production.
The advantages of vacuum molding
Apart from the quick turnaround and cost saving nature of vacuum molding, you will also stand to enjoy a number of other benefits which include the following:
- Reduced costs on equipment for large parts since high tonnage presses is not required as it would be the case with injection molding
- Highly detailed products in varying sizes
- Flexible tooling designs
- A huge range of colored, paintable and textured plastics
- Visually appealing prototypes
- Customizable appearance and material to suit personal preferences and requirements
Vacuum molding mass rapid prototyping tips
Whether you are in the packaging, electronic, retail or consumer product industry or any other therefore, you can use vacuum molding effectively to produce mass prototypes. The fast turnaround of the process makes it very easy for the mass production to be achieved and you can also produce as many prototypes as you need at very low costs; you only need to make the right decisions.
Tip 1 – Start your mass production by looking for a rapid prototyping company that you can trust for quality and delivery of services. A company that is experienced and offering a wide range of services as far as rapid prototyping is concerned will have an easy time meeting with your project requirements.
Tip 2 – Since you will be mass producing your parts, ensure that you counter check the design. If need be, get a professional designer to help with the process so that you do not end up producing tens of prototypes that are not as functional or appealing as you needed.
Tip 3 – Choose the right wall thickness for your parts. The ideal thickness should be at least 0.75 to ensure molds are properly filled. Thicknesses of up to 1.5mm are most suitable so do your selections wisely for best results.
Tip 4 – Even though the vacuum molding is cost effective, know exactly how many parts you wish to have mass produced and how much it is going to cost you. Choose production sizes meeting your needs and at a cost you can comfortably afford.
A good rapid prototyping supplier in China should not only offer you the best production options for your parts but should also be able to handle the production size of your project. You can enjoy cheap rapid prototyping services in China without compromising quality through techniques such as vacuum molding.
For more details, please check out http://www.rapidprototypechina.com.