Introduction
Prototyping is the first step in verifying product feasibility. It’s the most direct and effective way to identify flaws, deficiencies, and drawbacks in a designed product. When creating a prototype, we select materials based on factors such as product design, functionality, and budget. We also consider the product’s intended use, including resistance to high and low temperatures, alcohol, fire, rust, and sunlight, among other factors, both human and natural. Therefore, material selection is crucial.
Below are some commonly used materials summarized by Gaofeng.
1, ABS
ABS is widely used for prototypes of general product housings . It has good welding strength and can undergo metallization processes such as water electroplating and vacuum evaporation electroplating. Material specifications include plates, round bars, etc.
2, PMMA (acrylic)
PMMA is also known as organic glass, is a good transparent material and is suitable for products that require transparent prototypes.
3, PC (polycarbonate)
It is a high-performance engineering plastic with excellent impact resistance, heat resistance and cold resistance, and is widely used in automobiles, electrical appliances and other fields.
4, PP (polypropylene)
It is a lightweight, tough and easy-to-process material, commonly used in packaging, household appliances and other fields.
5, Aluminum alloy
It has good strength and hardness, especially in 6063, 6061 and 7075 aluminum alloys. Usually , its appearance is sandblasted, oxidized or electroplated.
6, Stainless steel
Stainless steel has high strength and good corrosion resistance. Commonly used stainless steel materials include SUS304 and 316. In addition, stainless iron is often used for special parts because of its magnetic properties.
7, Copper and aluminum
Copper and aluminum are common metal materials and are often used in CNC machining prototype production.
8, Magnesium alloy
The main characteristics of magnesium alloy are light weight and high strength.
These are the commonly used materials. Of course, there are many less popular materials, such as Engxin, graphene, etc. However, even with less popular materials, Gaofeng Prototyping can still meet your requirements.
