Posted to News on 8th Nov 2006, 21:00
Plastic components CNC machined in one business day
First Cut Prototype is promoting its CNC machining capability to machine builders who want plastic parts in as little as one business day. Typical applications include jigs, fixtures and gripper attachments. Components can be machined from a wide variety of plastics, including ABS, Delrin, acrylic, PEEK, Ultem, polypropylene and PTFE (see the full lists here).
One of the keys to First Cut Prototype's success is the proprietary software that it uses to convert customers' 3D models to toolpaths for CNC machining. This enables small quantities (usually batches of one to ten) to be shipped very fast - typically within one to three business days. Compared with additive rapid prototyping/manufacturing technologies, CNC machining from solid ensures that the components enjoy the same material properties as the raw material.
Currently First Cut Prototype offers three-axis milling from two set-ups, though forth- and fifth-axis capabilities are in development. Parts can be machined within a 250 x 175 x 75mm deep envelope, with the maximum depth that can milled from either side of the part being 50mm. The smallest parts that can typically be produced are 6.0 x 6.0 x 6.0mm, and the minimum wall thickness is generally 0.5mm. Tolerances are generally within +/-0.1mm.
One of the beauties of the First Cut Prototype service is the visibility that is provided by the quoting process. A proprietary quoting software engine generates the CNC toolpaths required to machine the part. The software then calculates the price to produce the part in various materials and generates an 'as milled' view of the part. A FirstQuote interactive quote enables the customer to evaluate the choice of different resins and different quantities, as well as view in 3D how the machined part will compare to the original model, with any differences (eg internal radii) highlighted.
Follow the link for more information about the First Cut Prototype process. See also this announcement about aluminium parts CNC machined in one business day.
