How Rapid Prototyping for 3D Printing Works

Rapid prototyping is part of the process of designing an object. This phase deals with creating a prototype useful for optimizing and testing the final product. 

Before rapid prototyping, the creation of models took place through the manual construction of mockups and models made of foam, cardboard, clay or other suitable materials to give the necessary details. Obviously, this type of model took a very long time, especially since the prototyping process can involve several changes before reaching the final form.

To date, thanks to new technologies, rapid prototyping brings several advantages to industrial production in different sectors.

In this article we specifically discuss rapid prototyping for 3D printing and its advantages.

Rapid prototyping and 3D printing

While the old 3D printers were not able to return solid and durable objects, the new machines on the contrary are able to use different composite materials capable of simulating even very resistant metal parts.

Modern 3D printers work by additive processing, thus adding one layer on top of the other. The CAD file therefore dialogues with the printer and transmits all the information necessary for the correct performance of the machine operations. 

Usually, rapid prototyping follows a fairly linear process:

• creation of the project digitally through modelling software (CAD);
• setting the machine parameters according to the type of processing and material to be modelled;
• sending the digital file to send the correct machining information;
• start of processing.

In general, rapid prototyping using a 3D printer is done to be able to test different aspects of your object. The most common are:

• aesthetic research (when it is necessary to create a physical model to verify the design or packaging of a product);
• creation of parts for assembly with other components (as in the case of automotive where some parts are first prototyped to verify compatibility with other parts);
• waterproof;
• verification of electromagnetism;
• resistance to chemical agents;
• resistance of the material in the wind tunnel (usually for the automotive or sports sector);
• corrosion, wear or abrasion;
• resistance to high or low temperatures;
• preview objects for presentation to new investors or at trade fairs.

The advantages of rapid prototyping for 3D printing

The reason for the great diffusion of 3D printers both at an industrial and private level lies in the great versatility of 3D printing. In fact, this technology is suitable for shaping different materials (especially if they are professional printers) and can be used for a wide range of applications.

In addition to this, there are several advantages that derive from the use of 3D printing:

• 3D printers are able to optimize the development phases during the design process;
• 3D printers allow a reduction in research and development time;
• 3D printers are able to reproduce very detailed objects in a precise way;
• 3D printers are also suitable for working small quantities, while maintaining affordable costs.

Conclusions 

In general, the 3D printer is used in various industrial sectors and beyond. In recent years, 3D printers, albeit for basic processes, have also spread among hobbyists and artisans, becoming an increasingly versatile tool.

However, it is important to know that depending on the type of 3D printer, the quality of the details, the type of material and the precision can vary greatly.

In fact, especially for inexpensive 3D printers, post-production finishing treatments may be necessary.