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Technology update
Plastic prototyping
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DTM Corp.'s Sinterstation 2500plus system is a laser sintering system that
can be used to develop testable, functional prototypes using CAD data.
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Solid Concepts, a rapid prototyping and manufacturing services provider
in Valencia, CA, has purchased a Sinterstation 2500plus system from
DTM Corp. The new selective laser sintering system will allow Solid
Concepts to develop testable, functional prototypes with mechanical
properties similar to the final product using CAD data. In addition,
the new system will allow the company to develop prototypes from a
greater variety of materials that can withstand high temperatures and
harsh chemicals similar to actual operating conditions.
"Solid Concepts typically uses polyamides to prototype injection-molded
parts," explained Joe Allison, President of Solid Concepts. "The level
of accuracy is far better than we had expected (of the Sintersation
2500plus).
The polyamide also has better material properties such as
higher strength and heat deflection temperature than other rapid
prototyping materials in its class. We are also using the CastForm material and have received very promising feedback from our foundry
customers. We expect this to satisfy many of our customers' needs
for short-run production castings."
Sinterstation 2500plus can develop prototypes using a variety
of materials that exhibit properties similar to that of the actual part.
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Frank Bokulich
Aerospace Engineering August 2000
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