The future: 3D Printing

The first stage is to fully understand your existing idea or new idea, and turn these into Computer Aided Designs (CAD). These designs and files will be used by the computer to create the 3D object. Even without any knowledge of design software we can bring ideas to life, and can also utilise existing 3D files if they exist.

At this stage we create drawings and renders so that you can visualise the end product on screen, and are able to make changes and adapt designs quickly to get the product perfect for you.

For plastic prototypes we use Fused Deposition Modelling (FDM). The process takes a polymer fibre and melts it to form a "paste" which then creates layers as it prints to build up your 3D object.

For end-use parts a composite printer is used and a method called Continuous Fibre Fabrication (CFF). This lays down chopped carbon fibre polymer and infills the object with strands of continuous carbon fibre for added strength.

3D printed parts are designed to come straight off the printer and into your hands with minimal finishing.

However 3D printed parts can also be post processed which include; machining, tapping, flatting, painting or polishing.