FAQ
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Top Things to Know about Rapid Prototyping
Q: What do I need before I can get my prototype made?
Answer:
Regardless of what process you intend to use, a scale 3D CAD model is required to make any form of prototype part. It needs to be a “water-tight” (meaning having no gaps or unconnected surfaces) 3D form with all surfaces in the correct direction (IE: outside specific surfaces facing out). Our Rapid Prototype specialists have some Design Tips to help you make your CAD more suitable for prototyping.
Additive prototyping processes will use a *.STL file. Subtractive processes use either Parasolid (*.X_T), *.IGES, or *.STEP files. If you cannot create one we also offer file conversion and 3D CAD drawing services in-house. Please Contact Us to provide you with a quote. To learn how to create an STL file Click Here.
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Regardless of what process you intend to use, a scale 3D CAD model is required to make any form of prototype part. It needs to be a “water-tight” (meaning having no gaps or unconnected surfaces) 3D form with all surfaces in the correct direction (IE: outside specific surfaces facing out). Our Rapid Prototype specialists have some Design Tips to help you make your CAD more suitable for prototyping.
Additive prototyping processes will use a *.STL file. Subtractive processes use either Parasolid (*.X_T), *.IGES, or *.STEP files. If you cannot create one we also offer file conversion and 3D CAD drawing services in-house. Please Contact Us to provide you with a quote. To learn how to create an STL file Click Here.
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Q: What is the difference between instant and custom quotes?
Answer:
Instant quotes are great if you need a quick idea of what kind of cost you will be looking at if you already know exactly what you need. It’s also very useful for proposals and projecting costs of prototypes you know you will need further down the road, but are not quite ready to make yet. With custom quotes, you can get the input and expertise of our staff to target the best process for your requirements, as well as ideas on how to minimize your part cost.
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Instant quotes are great if you need a quick idea of what kind of cost you will be looking at if you already know exactly what you need. It’s also very useful for proposals and projecting costs of prototypes you know you will need further down the road, but are not quite ready to make yet. With custom quotes, you can get the input and expertise of our staff to target the best process for your requirements, as well as ideas on how to minimize your part cost.
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Answer:
Full-scale production takes time and a fairly large investment. Without inspecting parts in the real world there is a much higher risk of errors that could result in costly manufacturing setbacks from minor tooling changes to completely re-making tools. Working on-screen can be deceiving, scale and feature size can often come back differently than you had visualized. Ergonomics validation, fit and functional testing and optimization in reality (IE: material flex, circuits fitting well, tolerances, etc) are all factors worth checking. Finally, for marketing “seeing is believing”. Having a realistic visual and/or functional model can make all the difference when selling your product or idea.
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Full-scale production takes time and a fairly large investment. Without inspecting parts in the real world there is a much higher risk of errors that could result in costly manufacturing setbacks from minor tooling changes to completely re-making tools. Working on-screen can be deceiving, scale and feature size can often come back differently than you had visualized. Ergonomics validation, fit and functional testing and optimization in reality (IE: material flex, circuits fitting well, tolerances, etc) are all factors worth checking. Finally, for marketing “seeing is believing”. Having a realistic visual and/or functional model can make all the difference when selling your product or idea.
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About Us
Q: What are Key3D's customers using their parts for?
Answer:
Key3D serves a large number of customers in a variety of different industries including automotive, footwear, consumer products, consumer electronics, packaging and education. Parts are used as appearance prototypes for design review and a variety of secondary applications including patterns for casting applications, mock-ups for form and fit testing and prototypes to collect market feedback. In addition, Key3D parts can be drilled, tapped, electroplated, or sanded and painted to replicate the look and feel of the final product.
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Key3D serves a large number of customers in a variety of different industries including automotive, footwear, consumer products, consumer electronics, packaging and education. Parts are used as appearance prototypes for design review and a variety of secondary applications including patterns for casting applications, mock-ups for form and fit testing and prototypes to collect market feedback. In addition, Key3D parts can be drilled, tapped, electroplated, or sanded and painted to replicate the look and feel of the final product.
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Answer:
Key3D is a Rapid Prototyping Service bureau that provides an online quote and custom fabricated parts from CAD files. We provide a competitive price so you can validate your CAD data in 3D.
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Key3D is a Rapid Prototyping Service bureau that provides an online quote and custom fabricated parts from CAD files. We provide a competitive price so you can validate your CAD data in 3D.
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3D Printing Process
Q: Can I use Rapid Prototypes to create moulds?
Answer:
You can use rapid prototypes to create moulds for limited and small production runs.
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You can use rapid prototypes to create moulds for limited and small production runs.
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Answer:
RP stands for Rapid Prototyping and refers to models made from CAD data generally encompassing all additive modeling techniques. The prototypes can be used for design review, mock-ups for form and fit testing and patterns for casting applications. The use of prototypes allows product developers to win new business, develop better products and improve production planning.
Often, people incorrectly use the term SLA (Stereolithography) to describe all rapid prototypes when, in fact, they mean RP as SLA’s are one of the many forms of RP.
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RP stands for Rapid Prototyping and refers to models made from CAD data generally encompassing all additive modeling techniques. The prototypes can be used for design review, mock-ups for form and fit testing and patterns for casting applications. The use of prototypes allows product developers to win new business, develop better products and improve production planning.
Often, people incorrectly use the term SLA (Stereolithography) to describe all rapid prototypes when, in fact, they mean RP as SLA’s are one of the many forms of RP.
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Q: What is the difference between Additive and Subtractive modelling?
Answer:
There are two major types of making prototypes. Additive Modelling encompasses all of the RP processes (SLS, SLA, Polyjet, Z-Corp) that build a model up from scratch out of a power or liquid polymer. Basically you are adding material to the part as it is made. With Subtractive modelling, such as CNC machining, you start with a solid block of material and machine away material, removing excess until you are left with the desired form. Casting/moulding(where a base material is set into a mould) and forming (where a base material is deformed over a mould) are the other major processes.
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There are two major types of making prototypes. Additive Modelling encompasses all of the RP processes (SLS, SLA, Polyjet, Z-Corp) that build a model up from scratch out of a power or liquid polymer. Basically you are adding material to the part as it is made. With Subtractive modelling, such as CNC machining, you start with a solid block of material and machine away material, removing excess until you are left with the desired form. Casting/moulding(where a base material is set into a mould) and forming (where a base material is deformed over a mould) are the other major processes.
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Q: Which rapid prototype process should I use?
Answer:
It depends on your part design, functional intent, and material thickness. In general, larger parts or trade show models should use CNC Machining; very thin parts should use SLS or SLA Processes.
At Key 3D, we know the ins-and-outs of each prototyping technology and we will help get you the parts you need. Contact us, and one of our Prototyping Engineers will be happy to assist you.
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It depends on your part design, functional intent, and material thickness. In general, larger parts or trade show models should use CNC Machining; very thin parts should use SLS or SLA Processes.
At Key 3D, we know the ins-and-outs of each prototyping technology and we will help get you the parts you need. Contact us, and one of our Prototyping Engineers will be happy to assist you.
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CAD Models
Q: What type of CAD data do you accept?
Answer:
Additive prototyping processes will use a *.STL file. Subtractive processes use either Parasolid (*.X_T), *.IGES, or *.STEP files. If you cannot create one we also offer file conversion and 3D CAD drawing services in-house. Please Contact Us to provide you with a quote. Our Rapid Prototyping specialists have also created a How to Create a STL File guide to assist you.
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Additive prototyping processes will use a *.STL file. Subtractive processes use either Parasolid (*.X_T), *.IGES, or *.STEP files. If you cannot create one we also offer file conversion and 3D CAD drawing services in-house. Please Contact Us to provide you with a quote. Our Rapid Prototyping specialists have also created a How to Create a STL File guide to assist you.
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Request a Quote -->
Answer:
The STL (*.stl) or stereolithography file format is an ASCII or binary file used in manufacturing. It is a list of the triangular surfaces that describe a computer generated solid model. This is the industry standard for most rapid prototyping machines; a binary STL file is required by Key3D to make a prototype with an additive process (SLS, SLA, Z-Corp, Polyjet, etc.).
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The STL (*.stl) or stereolithography file format is an ASCII or binary file used in manufacturing. It is a list of the triangular surfaces that describe a computer generated solid model. This is the industry standard for most rapid prototyping machines; a binary STL file is required by Key3D to make a prototype with an additive process (SLS, SLA, Z-Corp, Polyjet, etc.).
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Q: How do I create an STL File?
Answer:
our Rapid Prototype specialists have created a how to make an STL file guide to assist you.
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our Rapid Prototype specialists have created a how to make an STL file guide to assist you.
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Prototype Characteristics and Materials
Q: What prototype material should I use for my model?
Answer:
Find out what are the required specifications for your design and match the right process and material using our Material Comparison Chart. If you're not sure as to which material fits your application, Contact Us and we will advise you the most appropriate and cost-effective prototyping process and materials that will meet your requirements.
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Find out what are the required specifications for your design and match the right process and material using our Material Comparison Chart. If you're not sure as to which material fits your application, Contact Us and we will advise you the most appropriate and cost-effective prototyping process and materials that will meet your requirements.
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Q: Can I add colors, finishes or texture to my rapid prototype parts?
Answer:
Depending on the process and materials you choose. Our rapid prototype specialists have created a Available Texture and Finishes List to assist you.
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Depending on the process and materials you choose. Our rapid prototype specialists have created a Available Texture and Finishes List to assist you.
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Q: Are the materials recyclable?
Answer:
Depends on the chosen materials, most unused materials is collected and reused.
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Depends on the chosen materials, most unused materials is collected and reused.
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Answer:
The parts can be given added strength and different material properties depending on the needs of the customer. Different processes have different properties.
For example, when Z-Corp parts first come out of the printer, they can be handled carefully and examined. They have strength comparable to that of a shortbread cookie. For added strength and durability, the parts are impregnated with a variety of materials. Parts impregnated with wax are a bit stronger than a wax candle and parts impregnated with CA or hardener are about as strong as MDF (medium-density fibreboard). On the other end of the spectrum, CNC machined parts can be made from very strong materials like glass filled Nylon.
At Key 3D, we know the ins-and-outs of each prototyping technology and we will help get you the parts you need. Contact Us, and one of our Prototyping Engineers will be happy to assist you.
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The parts can be given added strength and different material properties depending on the needs of the customer. Different processes have different properties.
For example, when Z-Corp parts first come out of the printer, they can be handled carefully and examined. They have strength comparable to that of a shortbread cookie. For added strength and durability, the parts are impregnated with a variety of materials. Parts impregnated with wax are a bit stronger than a wax candle and parts impregnated with CA or hardener are about as strong as MDF (medium-density fibreboard). On the other end of the spectrum, CNC machined parts can be made from very strong materials like glass filled Nylon.
At Key 3D, we know the ins-and-outs of each prototyping technology and we will help get you the parts you need. Contact Us, and one of our Prototyping Engineers will be happy to assist you.
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Q: What resolution can be achieved in rapid prototyping models?
Answer:
To put it simply, it varies. Prototypes made from different processes and different materials have different factors that affect resolution. Visit the Process Specification page to get an idea of what type of parts and detail can be achieved with the process. Our Gallery Process Specification page shows a good example of the difference in resolution that can be achieved when using different processes.
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To put it simply, it varies. Prototypes made from different processes and different materials have different factors that affect resolution. Visit the Process Specification page to get an idea of what type of parts and detail can be achieved with the process. Our Gallery Process Specification page shows a good example of the difference in resolution that can be achieved when using different processes.
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Q: What tolerances can be achieved with the process?
Answer:
As with resolution, it varies. Prototypes made from different processes and different materials have different tolerances. As a general rule, it is impossible to hold tolerances tighter than the resolution of the process. Prototypes that are more solid with thick walls and bulkier details will experience better dimensional accuracy than thin-walled models with delicate features.
Visit the Process Specification page to get an idea of what type of parts and detail can be achieved with the process. Our Gallery page shows a good example of the difference in resolution that can be achieved when using different processes.
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As with resolution, it varies. Prototypes made from different processes and different materials have different tolerances. As a general rule, it is impossible to hold tolerances tighter than the resolution of the process. Prototypes that are more solid with thick walls and bulkier details will experience better dimensional accuracy than thin-walled models with delicate features.
Visit the Process Specification page to get an idea of what type of parts and detail can be achieved with the process. Our Gallery page shows a good example of the difference in resolution that can be achieved when using different processes.
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Q: Can I use the finished model as a functional prototype?
Answer:
It depends on the process and material you used for your prototype. Polyjet and SLS prototypes have high accuracy and tend to be good for checking data. Prototypes that are made with more durable materials are better for functional testing. Visit the Material Comparison Chart to get an idea of which material is more suitable for your use.
If you're not sure as to which material and process fits your application, Contact Us and we will advise you the most proper and cost-effective prototyping process and materials that will meet your requirements.
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It depends on the process and material you used for your prototype. Polyjet and SLS prototypes have high accuracy and tend to be good for checking data. Prototypes that are made with more durable materials are better for functional testing. Visit the Material Comparison Chart to get an idea of which material is more suitable for your use.
If you're not sure as to which material and process fits your application, Contact Us and we will advise you the most proper and cost-effective prototyping process and materials that will meet your requirements.
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Ordering
Q: What is the standard delivery time?
Answer:
It depends on the process and material you used for your prototype. Z-Corp Printing, our fastest prototype process, generally has a lead-time within 48 hours of order placement.
Visit our Lead Time page to see the different lead times on each prototyping process.
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It depends on the process and material you used for your prototype. Z-Corp Printing, our fastest prototype process, generally has a lead-time within 48 hours of order placement.
Visit our Lead Time page to see the different lead times on each prototyping process.
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Request a Quote -->
Answer:
For all quote requests, please Contact Us or fill out our Online Quote Request Form. A quote will generally be provided the next day.
For Z-Corp prototype quotes 24/7, visit our Z-Corp online Quoting system, eliminating the time-consuming process of issuing quotation requests, follow-up and delayed responses. This allows you to optimize the use of RP in your design process. The part cost is calculated based on a combination of size, volume and materials.
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For all quote requests, please Contact Us or fill out our Online Quote Request Form. A quote will generally be provided the next day.
For Z-Corp prototype quotes 24/7, visit our Z-Corp online Quoting system, eliminating the time-consuming process of issuing quotation requests, follow-up and delayed responses. This allows you to optimize the use of RP in your design process. The part cost is calculated based on a combination of size, volume and materials.
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Q: What taxes do I need to pay?
Answer:
Canada:
British Columbia - 12% HST is a applicable.
Ontario - 13% HST is applicable.
Alberta - PST is applicable.
Other province - applicable taxes.
USA: there are no duties on Rapid Prototypes.
International: depending on your country of origin you may be required to pay import duties.
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Canada:
British Columbia - 12% HST is a applicable.
Ontario - 13% HST is applicable.
Alberta - PST is applicable.
Other province - applicable taxes.
USA: there are no duties on Rapid Prototypes.
International: depending on your country of origin you may be required to pay import duties.
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Request a Quote -->
Q: How do I pay for my prototype?
Answer:
You can pay for your prototype by the following payment methods:
1) PayPal: Preferred payment method for online orders. Please sign up for a PayPal Account in order to process your order. The payment will appear as PAYPAL *KEY3D on your statement.
2) Cheque: Preferred payment method for local orders.
3) Cash: For local orders only.
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You can pay for your prototype by the following payment methods:
1) PayPal: Preferred payment method for online orders. Please sign up for a PayPal Account in order to process your order. The payment will appear as PAYPAL *KEY3D on your statement.
2) Cheque: Preferred payment method for local orders.
3) Cash: For local orders only.
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Click Here for some design tips to help you make your CAD more suitable for prototyping. Still can’t find an answer to your question? Contact our staff and prototype experts, we are more than happy to assist you.
Benefits of RP
