Rapid prototyping

The fast creation of a prototype is known as Rapid Prototyping (RP), and is generally carried out before specialized molds, tools, or jigs are designed. Prototyping traditionally required considerable skilled hand labor, time, and expense, typically applied to cutting, bending, shaping, and assembling a part from standard stock material. The procedure was often iterative, with a series of prototypes being built to test various options. For many applications, this process has been revolutionized by a relatively recent technology known as layer manufacturing or Free Form Fabrication (FFF), in which a part of an arbitrary shape can be produced in a single process by adding successive layers of material.

The CAD to Metal process developed by Arcam is the ideal manufacturing method for functional prototypes. The process is fast and produces parts in solid titanium and steel. Final machining can be done with any conventional method such as high-speed milling, turning, grinding, EDM etc.

In service, the prototypes can sustain real operating conditions and be subjected to high mechanical loads and temperatures. Prototypes manufactured in the Arcam CAD to Metal process have been used in such demanding applications as engine parts and rock drill tools with great success.

Upright

Gearbox

Exhaust

Heat Reflector

Ice Axe Blade