MGC rapid prototyping

Prototyping

In this process, physical objects that can be made out of plastic or metal are created from computer generated CAD files. The process typically takes 3 to 72 hours, depending on the process type and model size.

Plastic parts

We are specialized in CNC milling, because this technology gives the most accurate representation of mass production parts. Next to milling, we offer Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM), Stereo Lithography (SLA), Selective Laser Sintering (SLS). For samples from 10 to 50 parts we use Vacuum Casting (VC), and Soft Tooling (ST) for up to 100 parts.

Part Analyses

When you order a prototype with us, we provide you with full parts analyses, which are essentials in the pre-production process. This includes draft angle analysis, injection point, parting line, quick analysis. These are crucial for the moulds’ production, and if these issues are left to the last minute, serious delays can occur, as the results of these analyses can lead to significant design changes.

Fully functional prototyping

Before you have injection mould tooling made or commit to high volume machining processes, you probably want to test a part that is as close to the production part as possible.

At some point in your career, you have probably purchased an SLA, SLS or FDM part to do this and have been disappointed by the fact that it was fragile or by its rough surface finish. With a CNC machined part, you get the real material properties (strength, impact resistance, electrical properties, flame retardancy etc) of the base resin you really need, as well as a machined surface finish — none of the stair stepping that is inherent with the rapid prototyping technologies.

In addition, we offer fully functional prototypes in which we can integrate metal, standard buying parts and electronics, which is excellent for product testing, fitting, marketing and design confirmation.


Custom projects requiring very low quantities

Engineers often need just one or maybe a few parts for test fixtures, assembly jigs or assembly fixtures. Traditional machine shops often charge a significant non-recurring engineering (NRE) charge for programming and fixturing. This NRE charge often makes getting very small quantities unaffordable. The MGC process eliminates the upfront NRE costs and makes quantities as low as one affordable.


In-house machining capabilities overloaded?

Many companies have in-house machining capabilities that do a great job of meeting the company’s internal needs, except when a major new product is being introduced. In this circumstance there is typically a lot of new parts, a lot of changes and never enough hours in the day. MGC can help you in these overload situations.