Silicone Rapid Prototyping: From Concept to Creation
Rapid Silicone Prototyping for Functional Validation: Achieving ±0.2mm Dimensional Tolerances
Silicone rapid prototyping demands strict tolerance and material science expertise. We create durable, functionally accurate prototypes from your designs, using either CNC-milled molds for compression molding or 3D printing. We select the optimal silicone formulation for your needs based on factors like flexibility, biocompatibility, and thermal resistance. Our process is driven by a passionate team dedicated to delivering rapid turnaround times without sacrificing quality. Whether you demand single units for initial testing or complex multi-part assemblies for functional validation, we adopt our service to meet your exacting specifications.
Silicone Rapid Prototyping workflow
Refining Your Silicone Prototyping
Our engineers work closely with you to:
- Enhance Functionality: Ensure your prototype is both practical and efficient.
- Improve Ergonomics: Optimize comfort and ease of use.
- Maximize Production: Make sure your design can be easily manufactured.
Choosing right silicone for your prototype
Silicone is a broad term that encompasses a wide range of polymers, that's why choosing right silicone material is important. We will choose the right silicone material based on your needs.
Physical Properties:
- Flexibility: Silicone are flexible and can be molded into various shapes.
- Elasticity: They can stretch and recover their original shape without breaking.
- Thermal stability: Silicone have a high thermal stability, meaning they can withstand extreme temperatures.
- Chemical resistance: They resist chemical attacks from most substances, including acids and bases.
Mechanical Properties:
- High tensile strength: Silicone have a high tensile strength-to-weight ratio, making them suitable for applications where weight is a concern.
- Low density: Their low density makes them ideal for use in aerospace and other lightweight applications.
- Resistance to compression: They can withstand compressive forces without deforming.
Thermal Properties:
- High temperature resistance: Silicone can operate at high temperatures (up to 250°C/482°F) or more without decomposing or melting.
- Low thermal conductivity: They have a low thermal conductivity, making them suitable for use in applications where heat transfer is a concern.
- Resistance to UV radiation: Many silicone are resistant to ultraviolet (UV) radiation.
Electrical Properties:
- Good electrical insulation: Silicone are excellent insulators and can be used in applications where electrical insulation is critical.
- Dielectric strength: They have a high dielectric strength, making them suitable for use in high-voltage applications.
Other Features:
- Bio Compatibility: Silicone are bio-compatible and can be used in medical devices and implants.
- Non-toxicity: Most silicone are non-toxic and do not contain hazardous materials.
- Chemical inertness: They resist chemical reactions with other substances.
- High purity: Silicone can be produced with high purity levels, making them suitable for use in clean room environments.
Please note that the features listed above may vary depending on the specific type of silicone being used (e.g., liquid silicone rubber (LSR), solid silicone rubber (SSR), or silicone-based adhesives).
Tooling for Prototypes
For rapid prototyping, we will use Aluminum or Steel, specifically SUS STAVAX with HRC 33, for direct metal molding using CNC milling. Alternatively, 3D Printers like SLA (Stereolithography), DLP (Digital Light Processing), or LP (Laser Sintering) machines can be used to create molds by printing with resin as the medium. This method is ideal for creating molds because the printed part can be easily released from the mold.
Aluminum is a lightweight material that's well-suited for smaller batches and prototyping. Aluminum molds are relatively inexpensive to produce and can be machined quickly, making them an attractive option for rapid prototyping.
SUS STAVAX (HRC 33) is a steel alloy that offers a good balance between strength, durability, and cost. It's suitable for larger prototypes or small-scale production runs.
Both Aluminum and SUS STAVAX are well-suited for rapid prototyping because they:
- Are relatively inexpensive compared to other metals
- Can be machined quickly using CNC technology
- Provide a good balance of strength, durability, and cost
Please note that these materials may not offer the same level of precision or finish as other metals, but they're great options for rapid prototyping purposes.
Comprehensive Testing and Validation
- Function Testing: Your prototype undergoes extensive testing to ensure it meets all specifications and performs as intended.
- Feedback Integration: We collaborate with you during testing, incorporating your feedback to ensure the final product exceeds expectations.
How to get a silicone rapid prototype made
Consultation and Design for Silicone Prototypes
- Discuss Your Needs: Begin by sharing your project details. What are your objectives? What functionality do you require from the silicone prototype?
- From Concept to Model: Our experts take your initial ideas and develop precise 3D models. This step is crucial for ensuring the prototype will meet your specific needs.
Silicone Rapid Prototyping Techniques
- CNC Machining: Opt for CNC machining for complex, high-durability molds. Ideal for prototypes requiring ultra-precision.
- 3D Printing: Select 3D printing for simpler or rapid prototypes. It’s fast and efficient, especially suitable for initial concept testing.
Silicone Molding Methods
Compression Molding
- Forming Silicone: This method involves pressing silicone into carefully crafted molds to achieve perfect shape and functionality.
Overmolding with Silicone
- Adding Functionality: Enhance your product by overmolding silicone onto other materials, improving the overall utility and feel.
Get Started with Your Silicone Prototype Today
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Why Choose Dabojin for Silicone Prototyping
Commitment to Quality
ISO Certifications
Compliance with FDA Guidelines
Customized Services
We provide comprehensive custom silicone manufacturing services
Client Centric Approach
Focused on the client to achieve the best outcomes
Scalable and Supportive
High-quality, fast silicone prototyping solutions
Quick Comparison: Silicone Molding Services Explained
Technique | Advantages | Disadvantages |
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Silicone Compression Molding |
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Silicone Injection Molding |
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Silicone Overmolding |
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3D Printing for Rapid Prototyping |
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Silicone Extrusion Molding |
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