Thursday, October 11, 2012

Finding The Right 3D Printing Services

By Leigh Bean


Architects, engineers and manufacturing companies are no longer new to the idea of creating prototypes for the products they intend to make. Right now, they are already using 3D printing services Los Angeles in contrast to the manual and more time consuming procedure they have employed in the past. This makes things much easier and faster to complete.

The history of printing can be traced back in 1800 BC when the Phaistos Disc was created. Contemporary three dimensional printing, however, was introduced in 1984 by Charles Hull. Digital files were used for the process as well. This became the leverage for the creation of the more modern printers of today's world.

In order to create a prototype, of course, the concept has to be conceived first. You must note down the design you want to make and have it created into an STL file. This is done possibly by using several CAD programs or other computer assisted technologies. The design is broken down into several layers and transported to the printer for processing.

This is why you need to make sure you work with a company that has only the best designers. Find out how long the companies you are considering have been working in the industry. They should have expert professionals who are licensed, fully trained and definitely experienced so that you can be guaranteed only of the best results.

Moreover, you need to make sure the printing companies have what it takes to create the final outputs. Of course, this will involve state of the art technology. You should visit their facilities to actually see the kind of machines they are using. Remember that speed as well as accuracy can only be guaranteed when there is enough advanced technology available.

For you to get an overview on the expertise of the professionals, you might as well look at their portfolios. Make sure they were able to make prototypes of very intricate and complicated designs. If there are samples available, look at the samples and evaluate them for quality. Prototypes are going to be subjected to demanding handling situations. Thus, they need to be made of tough materials.

Ask the companies about the methods that they use for their tasks. Methods for 3D printing may include stereolithography, fused deposition modeling, selective laser sintering, and many others. Make sure the different service providers you visit discuss all the methods available. This will help you in deciding which method will offer the best results for the prototypes you are trying to create.

It is best for you to obtain references from all of your prospects. There past and current clients will be able to tell you just how good the service providers are in doing their tasks. After all, you are going to pay a significant amount for the service. It is only right that you be satisfied not just by the outcome but with the entire process as well.

It is a must for you to pay significantly for the 3D printing services Los Angeles you need to get. To get the best value for your money though, you need to compare the rates offered by different companies. Ask them quotes when you visit their facilities. Take note of the personality of the personnel there too. Remember that you will have to collaborate with them in order to produce the best results.




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