Rapid prototyping serves as an invaluable tool for businesses aiming to swiftly iterate and test their product designs, enabling them to refine concepts and identify improvements efficiently. For small batch production runs, 3D printing technologies (FDM) and (SLS) provide a cost-effective and agile solution, enabling companies to produce limited quantities of customized components or products without the need for expensive tooling or lengthy setup times
FDM printers work by heating a thermoplastic filament to its melting point and then extruding it, layer by layer, to create a three dimensional object.
FDM printers are relatively inexpensive and easy to use, making them a popular choice for home and small-scale 3D printing
Stereolithography works by using a photopolymer resin that is cured by exposure to light.
The machine traces out the desired geometry layer by layer using a computer-controlled moving laser beam.
The beam is directed by mirrors that are positioned around the build platform.
When it comes to certain projects, a computer-aided design, or CAD, can be extremely beneficial. A main advantage to using CAD is the fact that it provides experts with greater accuracy. This is done by replacing manual drafting with electronic design software, such as SketchUp, Fusion 360, or AutoCAD Design Edition.
Aluminium AlSi10Mg is a casting alloy with good casting properties and is typically used for cast parts with thin walls and complex geometry. It offers good strength, hardness and dynamic properties and is therefore also used for parts subject to high loads. Parts in Aluminium AlSi10Mg are ideal for applications which require a combination of good thermal properties and low weight. They can be machined, spark-eroded, welded, micro shot-peened, polished and coated if required. Conventionally cast components in this type of aluminium alloy are often heat treated to improve the mechanical properties.
The main advantage of Aluminium AlSi10Mg over other alloys is its good castability. The alloy has a low melting point and a high fluidity, which makes it easier to fill complex moulds. The addition of magnesium also increases the hardness of the alloy, making it more resistant to wear and tear.
Aluminium AlSi10Mg also has good weldability, making it possible to join different parts together using various welding techniques. The alloy can also be micro shot-peened to improve its surface finish.
If you are looking for a casting alloy with good casting properties and a high level of resistance to wear and tear, then Aluminium AlSi10Mg is the ideal choice for you.
Mitchell and Son offer industrial 3D Printing in Aluminium AlSi10Mg. We have a wide range of materials available to be used for on demand 3D printing and online quotes are available.
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info@mitchellsson.co.uk
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