CNC Machining

Most aluminum prototype companies use CNC machining. Using numerical control machine tools, this method produces prototypes in the shortest time possible and very precisely. In addition, this method is convenient because you can alter digital CAD designs.

For more information, please visit GD-HUB.

Despite been compatible with most metal materials, this process works best with aluminum alloys. In addition, as a subtractive manufacturing method, it leads to material wastage.

CNC machining uses 4-axis and 5-axis CNC machines to create complex parts with detailed features.

Sheet Metal Prototyping

This fabrication is a group of processes that involves the deformation, cutting, and assembly of aluminum sheets. It&#;s used to make functional prototypes such as enclosures and industrial parts.

When creating a functional metal prototype, manufacturers use laser cutting, punching, bending, and welding procedures. To maintain quality, it&#;s beneficial to use the same sheet metal techniques during prototyping and production.

The downside of this technique is that it might be more expensive than the other processes if multiple techniques are required. For example, a single part may need a laser cutter and punching machine, while with CNC machining, it would just need one machine.

You can choose this method if you need a range of fabrication services or several prototype copies.

Aluminum Casting

Casting involves pouring melted aluminum liquid into a mold to create a prototype. Since it requires specialist equipment, the process of creating a mold is expensive. Because of this, it&#;s more suitable for mass production.

Manufacturers can incorporate 3D printing and CNC machining in the casting process to reduce the production costs of metal prototypes. However, the production quality is good and creates strong parts that clients can use in different industrial applications.

Aluminum Extrusion

Ideally, not considered as a prototyping process, extrusion is used by manufacturers to create the original parts. During extrusion, materials are forced to go through a shaped open mold to produce an elongated part.

If you are looking for more details, kindly visit Extrusion Prototype Services.

Aluminum prototypes that manufacturers can make via this process include metal bars, brackets, and joints. However, due to the high cost, most extrusion companies specialize in high-volume orders.

How to Choose an Extrusion Company

When you are ready to explore having an extrusion completed for your business, you need to select your provider carefully. Having access to the right company can make your extrusion project simple and easy and give you the results that you need.  Here are just a few things to consider when you are trying to choose the best company for your next extrusion project.

The first question to ask yourself is about how you were received.  Customer service starts with the first contact that you have made with the company.  Did they answer the in a professional manner?  Answer your promptly?  If an extrusion company doesn&#;t offer good customer service when you are a prospective customer, they many not offer good customer service when you are an actual customer.

Another area to evaluate is their usage of technology.  While the process of extrusion is fairly simple, there are technologies that can ensure that your product is created with the tightest tolerances in the shortest amount of time. This can greatly impact the cost of your product.  Knowing that the company you have chosen has a high level of technology means that your parts will be right the first time.  Outdated technology and hardware can spell disaster for your project.

Take time to investigate the raw materials that the company has on hand at any given time. Companies that have a good deal of raw materials will give you the benefit of being able to produce your product with materials that you can view before production begins.  Having access to a wide variety of materials can also offer you more options with your product that may affect processing time as well as the final cost.

The final step is to ask about rapid prototyping and short runs.  These services can be invaluable if you need to test a new product and don&#;t want to pay for a long run until you are sure the product design is correct.

Want to learn more?  Call Extrudex today for more information on how we can help you to create the products you need quickly and on budget.

Contact Extrudex

If you want to learn more, please visit our website Prototype Aluminum Extrusion Cost.