Table of Contents
Silicone Mold Making
After creating a prototype with Laminated Object Manufacturing (LOM), manufacturers prepare a silicone mold by reserving space for the product. They use a vacuum machine to reduce the mold’s internal pressure. This process prepares the mold for pouring PU (polyurethane) or other materials.
The casting process takes a few hours. The material solidifies inside the mold. Manufacturers then cure the silicone mold in a high-temperature oven. After curing, they remove the finished product.
This method efficiently produces silicone molds and matching products. However, prototype (“Shouban”) production differs significantly from full-scale manufacturing. Different manufacturers often handle these processes due to their unique goals and methods.
Prototyping in Design
Industrial designers first transform ideas into detailed 3D drawings. They focus on creative design. Manufacturers then convert these designs into physical prototypes.
Prototyping Services
- Prototype (Shouban) production
- CNC machining
- 3D printing
- Parts processing
- Mass production
- Inspection fixture fabrication
Sheet Metal Processing
Sheet metal processing, known as the “gold process,” works with thin sheets under 6 mm thick. Manufacturers shear, punch, fold, weld, rivet, and shape the sheets into complex forms like car body components.
Process Steps
- Designers output the file.
- Reviewers check the design and provide a quotation.
- Engineers disassemble the programming design.
- Machines perform punching and CNC machining.
- Operators bend the sheet metal.
- Workers carry out manual repairs.
- Surface treatments enhance the finish.
- Teams assemble and inspect the parts.
- Manufacturers prepare the shipment.
For simple tasks, bending machines can complete the job without using complex punches.
Benefits of Prototypes
Prototypes offer several advantages:
Early Issue Detection: Prototypes reveal structural or assembly issues.
Cost Reduction: They prevent expensive errors during mold manufacturing.
Faster Market Entry: Prototypes enable pre-sales and product promotion.
Rapid Iteration: Small-scale production allows for quick testing and adjustments.
CNC Machining
CNC machining is ideal for square or irregular objects, while lathes handle round objects. Machines can process workpieces up to 600 mm. CNC machining is often more cost-effective than SLA (Stereolithography).
Features of CNC Machining
Materials: ABS, PC, PMMA plastics; aluminum, and copper metals.
Advantages: High precision, toughness, wide material selection, and affordability.
Vacuum Casting
Vacuum casting uses silicone molds made from the original sample. Manufacturers pour PU material into the mold under vacuum conditions. The process replicates the sample but with enhanced temperature resistance and hardness.
This method is ideal for small batches ranging from a few units to dozens. Vacuum casting reduces costs while maintaining high quality.
