Have you ever pulled a 3D print off the build platform, only to find its bottom layer looks bumpy, uneven, or covered in tiny gaps? That’s the roughness underlying layer of 3D printing—a common issue that ruins the look and functionality of your parts. Whether you’re making a PLA phone stand or an ABS mechanical […]
Ever finished a 3D print of a PLA part—only to find its edges curled up like a wilted leaf, separating from the build platform? You’re not alone. 3D print PLA warping is one of the most common frustrations for hobbyists and manufacturers alike, but it’s far from unbeatable. This guide breaks down why PLA warps,
When it comes to manufacturing screws—critical components in everything from electronics to aerospace—how do you ensure every piece meets strict size, thread, and strength standards? The answer lies in the CNC machining screw process—a computer-controlled workflow that turns raw metal into high-precision fasteners with unmatched consistency. This guide breaks down the entire process, solves common
In the era of personalized manufacturing, can 3D printing mass production really compete with traditional methods like injection molding? While 3D printing (or additive manufacturing) excels at small-batch and custom products, scaling it to high-volume runs has long been a puzzle for manufacturers. This guide breaks down the key hurdles of 3D printing mass production
In today’s fast-paced manufacturing world, how do factories produce complex parts with consistent accuracy and efficiency? The answer lies in automatic CNC machining—a technology that has revolutionized how we create components for industries from aerospace to medical devices. This guide breaks down everything you need to know about this game-changing process, from its basic structure
Have you ever asked yourself, “Can my 3D printer make a part as big as a chair?” or “Why can’t I print a tiny gear with my desktop printer?” The answer lies in 3D printing parts size—a key factor that depends on your printer’s technology, model, and even the material you use. This guide will solve
Have you ever wondered how a digital design transforms into a physical object—whether it’s a custom toy, a medical implant, or a car part? The answer is 3D printing technology—a revolutionary manufacturing method that’s changing industries worldwide. But with its mix of materials, software, and machinery, it can feel overwhelming. This guide breaks down 3D printing’s
If you’re in industries like automotive prototyping, consumer electronics development, or medical device testing, you’ve probably relied on silicone duplicates molds for low-volume production. But one question always comes up: How many times can these molds actually be used? In this guide, we’ll break down the mold’s lifespan, what affects it, how to make it
Silicone compounding is the backbone of silicone duplicating—it’s how you create the flexible molds that replicate prototypes into functional parts. But even small mistakes in compounding (like wrong curing agent amounts or poor bubble control) can ruin molds, delay projects, and waste money. Below, we break down the most critical problems to watch for, with
Polishing sheet metal fabrication prototypes is more than just making them look good—it removes burrs, smooths rough edges, and boosts durability, which is critical for testing functionality and impressing stakeholders. Whether you’re working with steel, aluminum, or copper prototypes, following the right steps and using the correct tools will save you time and avoid costly
If you’re working with silicone compound materials—whether for silicone duplicating, mold making, or low-volume casting—understanding their melting point is critical. The melting point determines if the material can withstand processing temperatures, avoid deformation, and work with other materials (like ABS or PC) in your project. Below, we break down the melting point of silicone compounds,
Choosing the right materials for silicone Vacuum casting is make-or-break for your project—whether you’re making small-batch prototypes or low-volume production parts. The process relies on three core material types: prototype materials (to create the master template), mold materials (to make the flexible silicone mold), and casting materials (to produce the final parts). Below, we break
If you’re looking for a fast, cost-effective way to make small-batch prototypes or low-volume production parts, the silicone Vacuum casting process is a game-changer. Unlike mass-production methods like injection molding (which requires expensive molds), silicone vacuum casting uses flexible silicone molds to create high-quality parts—perfect for new product development or small runs of 10–500 pieces.
If you’re turning a product idea into reality, understanding the prototype making process is essential to avoid delays, wasted materials, and design flaws. A well-executed prototype bridges the gap between digital designs and physical products—helping you test functionality, refine aesthetics, and validate ideas before mass production. Below, we break down every key stage of the
If you’re working on rapid mold processing, screen printing your prototype model is a cost-effective way to add clear patterns, text, or logos—critical for testing design aesthetics and functionality. But doing it right requires following precise steps and avoiding common mistakes. Below, we break down the entire process, share key tips for success, and include
3D printing with PLA is popular for its ease of use and low cost, but even the best PLA prints fall short if you can’t bond them properly. The question is: which glue works best for 3D printing PLA? Whether you’re making a hobby model, a functional part, or a decorative piece, the right adhesive
