The manufacturing of parts and components for prototypes usually follows two fundamental phases: producing pieces to demonstrate concepts and producing prototype parts to showcase the potential of a future product. The balance between manufacturing speed and part aesthetics is a tough one, which is why it is essential to define the real objective before making decisions about the most suitable prototyping tools.
Manufacturing parts with 3D printing: The manufacturing of prototype parts with 3D printing machines is the "ABC" of prototyping. However, within each of the categories or 3D manufacturing methods, there are machines and materials that make clear differences.
Creality | Ender 3: For rapid manufacturing to validate concepts, the use of Creality printers is very practical. Specifically, models like the Ender 3 are commonly used. While it is true that this printer does not deliver the best aesthetic results nor the strongest castings to demonstrate mechanical resistance of the parts, it is very fast and, above all, very affordable.
Bambu Lab: The Bambu Lab machines have become our best 3D printers. The price is affordable, and the results are excellent, especially when following the manufacturer's guidelines and using only their own materials.
Formech 508DT: The Formech machines are very useful for manufacturing parts with cold molds and parts using vacuum techniques. These manufacturing techniques allow for watertight parts due to the nature of the method itself. The Formech 508 DT devices are affordable and, in our experience, enable a wide range of uses for the rapid materialization of prototypes.
CNC Carvera: It is true that over the last decade, we have tested several solutions to manufacture parts with CNC. The results of these parts are far superior in terms of mechanical strength compared to those obtained with 3D printing. However, the learning curve to achieve the same results as with 3D printing is usually steeper when using CNC machines. Without a doubt, after trying several alternatives, the Carvera CNC machine has been the best we have tested in the last decade. In addition to our experience, we know that professional opinions on Carvera machines are outstanding. The balance between precision, versatility, and ease of use has never received better feedback.
Although these are everyday prototyping tools, there are other tools that have a clear impact on controlling prototyping times. Specifically, laser cutting machines, manual lathes and mills for testing unique parts with fine adjustments, as well as other more common tools such as column drills, polishers, plastic benders, and heat guns.
