2023-12-20
CNC machined prototypes are the process used to produce one piece or a small batch of a product before custom production and manufacturing.
The general idea about CNC machining is that it is used for large-scale manufacturing. However, CNC machining can be used for much more than that. This is evident in its use in prototyping.
The advantages of CNC machined prototypes:
- Ensure accuracy and tolerance
Once you've specified the dimensions and shape in a CAD file, you'll need to use a manufacturing process to achieve the desired results. To get ideal results, you need to use a high-precision value machine. Although the dimensions may differ from the model, the deviation from the true value will be minimal. Compared with other prototyping methods, CNC-machined prototypes have better tolerance levels.
- Repeatability
Because CNC machining is a software-controlled manufacturing process, when manufacturing with CNC machining, you will get multiple dimensions. So once you program the dimensions of your software, you can make as many same products as you want.
- Minimize human involvement
CNC machining reduces human involvement in the manufacturing process. This significantly reduces the possibility of operator error. It further reduces errors that can occur during the manufacturing process.
- Supports multiple materials
CNC-machined prototypes are an ideal way to develop prototypes compared to other methods. CNC machined prototypes can support the parts made by various materials no matter plastic or metal.
The manufacturing processes of CNC machined prototypes are as follows:
- CNC engraving: Using cutting tools to engrave and cut on the surface of a material, suitable for making flat or curved prototypes.
- CNC milling: Removing excess material from the surface of the material by rotating a tool, suitable for prototyping complex shapes and structures.
- CNC dispensing: Use robots or automatic dispensing equipment to control the flow rate and position of glue, and dot the glue on the material. It is suitable for making prototype parts that need to be bonded.
- CNC Moldmaking: The process of making various metal molds such as injection molds and die-cast molds for mass production of prototypes that require plastic or metal forming.
Different manufacturing processes of CNC machined prototypes can be selected as needed to meet specific prototyping needs.
What materials can be used for CNC machined prototypes?
There are many types of materials used in CNC machined prototypes, and different types of materials are suitable for different needs and applications.
Metal: Metal raw materials have the characteristics of high strength, high toughness, wear resistance, and good thermal conductivity. They are often used to manufacture parts that need to withstand greater pressure or operate in high-temperature environments. Commonly used metal materials include aluminum alloy, steel, copper, magnesium alloy, etc.
Plastic: Plastic is one of the most common prototyping materials. Its low cost, easy processing, and ability to be freely tinted and painted make it widely used in various industries. Commonly used plastic materials include ABS, PC, PP, PVC, etc.
What are the applications of CNC machined prototypes?
- Auto industry: used for automotive parts prototyping, automotive mold manufacturing, etc.
- Aerospace industry: used for aircraft parts, aero-engine parts, spacecraft prototype production, etc.
- Medical device industry: used for medical device prototyping and medical device mold manufacturing, etc.
- Industrial design: Used for prototyping of various products, such as mobile phones, computers, home appliances and other products
CNC machined prototypes focus on smaller-scale personalized needs, such as quickly producing a single or a small number of prototype samples for functional testing or user feedback. It is often used in design and development, research experiments, and other fields. The service of CNC machined prototypes has been provided for many years in DMTC(Shenzhen DMTC Intelligent Technology CO., LTD). Quick response and short lead time help us get much good feedback. We always here waiting for your inquiry!
