Q: What CAD files does Prototech Engineering commonly receive?
A: STL, Unigraphics, Pro-E, Parasolid, 3D-IGES.

Q: What CAD file formats does Prototech Engineering prefer?
A: Nothing beats a properly faceted and clean STL (.stl) file. If we can't have that, we prefer native UG, Pro-E or an ascii Parasolid. 3-D IGS (.igs) files are commonly used but they almost always require some CAD work in order to generate an optimized STL file.

Q: What happens if I use different software?
A: We work with a wide variety of software packages. Most (but not all) solid modeling software packages produce excellent STL files. On the other hand, there are some easy to use, non-solid modeling software packages that generate great images, but very poor quality STL files. Regardless of what software you use, give us a call. Our project managers and engineers will be glad to analyze your file. If necessary, our CAD experts can optimize your surface models or create solid models from scratch.

Q: What happens if all I have is a drawing or 2D CAD?
A: No problem, we have an entire department dedicated to converting 2D information into 3D solid models. Just send us your drawing or 2D file and we'll provide you with a free estimate.

Q: How do I transfer my file to Prototech Engineering?
A: You can email your file to us at proto@prototechengineering.com or you can call us for a password and then upload to our ftp site: http://plus.xdrive.com. Individual FTP space is available to clients interested in having their own file transfer area.

Stereolithography

Q: What SLA resins does Prototech Engineering use?
A: We offer the three most popular DSM-Somos SLA resins. Somos 9100 series resin has moderate flexibility and emulates polypropylene. Somos 8100 flexible resin is very flexible and emulates polyethylene. Somos 7100 standard resin is an excellent general purpose resin with with rigid characteristics. Need samples? Give us a call at
630-920-0370 and we will be glad to send you some.

Q: Why should I consider using a flexible or semi-flexible resin?
A. Aside from the clean appearance and resiliency, flexible and semi-flexible resins handle well and are flexible enough to be used in a wide variety of interlocking and snap-fit applications. In many cases, parts made from this material have mechanical properties similar to urethane and production parts. Best of all, these parts can be built and delivered very quickly.

Q: Are there size limitations to SLA models?
A: For large parts, we utilize our SLA-500 machine. It has the largest work envelope of any SLA machine. For extra large parts, (over 20 x 20 x20 inches) we simply build the parts in sections and fuse them together. Our model makers are experts at creating very large and very accurate patterns and prototypes from multiple SLA models.

Q: What kind of finish can I get on my SLA model?
A: We offer 3 levels of finish from a basic vapor blasted smooth finish to a fully painted and textured model. Just tell our project managers what kind of finish you are looking for or show us a sample and we'll take it from there.

Q: How long does it take to produce a basic SLA model?
A: Depending on workload, we often build and ship basic finish SLA's in 1-2 days. Fully painted and textured models take a little longer.

Molding and casting

Q: What are the benefits of a urethane prototype?
A: If you need one or more prototypes that look, feel and function like production parts but you don't have the time or budget to create hard tooling, rubber molding and urethane casting is often the best way to go. On average, it takes about a week to create 5 urethane parts of one design after the master pattern is complete. For a free estimate, give us a call.

Q: How many different urethanes do I have to choose from?
A: We have 30+ urethanes to choose from. Some are soft and flexible. Others are for high heat and other specialized applications. Our most popular urethane materials emulate popular production plastics like ABS, Polyethylene, Polypropylene, Nylon, etc. We offer really nice clear prototypes made from urethane and acrylic material. If you would like samples or material specs on any of our materials, just call us at
630-920-0370 and we'll send some to you.

Q: Can Prototech custom color urethane parts without painting them?
A: Yes, we custom color thousands and thousands of prototypes every year. In many cases, you can't tell the difference between our prototypes and actual production parts.

Q: How long does it take to produce five identical urethane models?
A: Production time depends on the complexity of the master pattern, mold design and the urethane material. After the master pattern has been made and finished, we usually need between 4 and 8 working days to produce 5 piece parts.

Q: What is the durometer range for the urethane materials we offer?
A: 25 shore A to 85 shore D. We also make multi-durometer parts.