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Polyjet technology allows you to produce reliable, low-volume moulds ready for use in as little as one day.
Liquid silicone rubber (LSR) is a widely used material due to its versatility and unique properties. It is non-reactive and stable, as well as resistant to extreme environments and temperatures. LSR is used in industries that span automotive, defense, sporting goods, medical devices and consumer products. Read more…
Mass production of LSR parts uses specialized injection molding machines that meter, mix and inject LSR into a heated mold. Due to the time and expense of this process, low-volume production and prototyping is often done with manual casting methods that use molds made of modeling board, RTV rubber or soft metal.
However, although they are easier, faster and cheaper to produce, prototype molds have their own challenges. Making LSR parts with RTV molds is a multi-stage process requiring time and labor to produce the patterns and molds. Care is also needed to ensure the soft rubber RTV mold does not deform or stick to LSR parts. Machined molds overcome these challenges, but they can be much more expensive, time-consuming and labor intensive than RTV molds. Additionally, machining may have limitations with respect to the complexity of a part’s design.
Because injection moulds used to produce liquid silicone rubber (LSR) parts are typically too expensive for low-volume production, manufacturers often resort to labour-intensive manual casting methods that can result in moulds that stick or deform. 3D printing with PolyJet technology is an attractive alternative. Reliable, low-volume moulds can be ready for use in as little as one day.
Using 3D printed molds, LSR parts can be produced in just one or two days. After designing the mold in CAD, it is printed, often overnight, without operator attendance or added time for complex designs.
PolyJet technology provides an alternative method for producing molds for LSR parts with dramatic time and cost savings. This 3D printing process builds objects layer by layer, using data from computer aided design (CAD) files.
With an inkjet-like process, PolyJet technology delivers extremely high-resolution molds with smooth surfaces. PolyJet molds preserve fine details and deliver smooth surface finishes.
Rapid response to design changes and can withstand extreme temperatures, making it an ideal choice for components used in automobiles and other outdoor applications. This process also produces pliable, durable parts in high volumes.
| Average lead time savings: | 70% – 90% |
|---|---|
| Average cost savings: | 30% – 85% |
| Molds: |
Overnight production Smooth, mold-ready finish High resolution for fine details |
| LSR parts: |
Production materials for exact characteristics Complex, intricate designs |
| Revisions: | Rapid response to design changes |
*Typical time and cost savings derived from numerous end-user analysis, testimonials and feedback. Actual savings may vary based upon numerous factors, including traditional time/cost, part geometry and utilized technology.
| Average lead time savings: | 70% - 85% |
|---|---|
| Average cost savings: | 75% - 85% |
| Greater design freedom: |
Internal vacuum channels Consolidated assemblies Complex geometry Integrated components |
| Greater performance: |
Lightweight/low mass Optimized designs Impact dampening Non-marring Increased velocity Extended preventative maintenance cycles |
| Rapid response: |
In-house fabrication Redesign as needed Reduced downtime |
Produce complex LSR Moulds quickly and cost-effectively.
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