Prototype now.
Production later.
Material continuity.
Material selection for prototype-to-production. Process changes between prototype and production may change material grade. Plan continuity.
Key principles.
Bar/sheet stock
PEEK, acetal, nylon bar/sheet stock for CNC prototype.
Same family
Inject same plastic family — but molding grade. Mechanical properties similar.
Wrought stock
6061 bar/plate stock for CNC prototype.
Cast alloys
Cast aluminum (356, A356) for production. Different mechanical properties.
Photopolymer or PA12
SLA or MJF for fast prototype. Lower properties than production.
Inject grade
Inject mold same plastic. Production properties.
Aluminum tooling
Aluminum mold tooling for 5-10K shots between prototype and steel mold.
Until tool ready
CNC parts during 8-week mold tool build. Bridge to production launch.
Match where possible
Pick prototype materials matching production where feasible.
FAQ
Are prototype properties same as production?
Often no. CNC bar stock has different properties than injection-molded plastic. Cast metal differs from wrought.
How to plan for production switch?
Specify "production-representative" prototypes. Use same plastic family. Adjust tolerances per production process.
Common pitfalls?
Prototype works, production fails. Reasons: weld lines in molded parts, draft angles for casting, looser tolerance in production.
Bridge process options?
Aluminum molds for low-volume bridge production. Urethane casting from silicone mold. RIM for medium-volume.
Verifying production material?
First-article inspection from production process. Mechanical testing per part criticality.
Documentation continuity?
Drawing controls form, fit, function across processes. Material spec: "ABS molded", not just "ABS".
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