Injection molded or RP? Hard to tell on these plastic models

July 22, 2010
A new rapid prototyping machine from Z-Corp. additively builds parts that end up looking as if they were injection molded.

A new rapid prototyping machine additively builds parts that end up looking as if they were injection molded. The ZBuilder Ultra from Z-Corp., Burlington, Mass., makes components using a digital light processor projector that solidifies a liquid photopolymer. According to the developer, the machine builds working plastic prototypes in half the time needed by other RP machines and at one-third the price of using stereolithography. The machine makes parts with tolerances of +/- 0.008 in. with features down to 0.005 in. in size and smooth surfaces. The photopolymer’s properties are similar to those of ABS.

Sources:
Z-Corp., http://www.zcorp.com/

About the Author

Leslie Gordon

Leslie serves as Senior Editor - 5 years of service. M.S. Information Architecture and Knowledge Management, Kent State University. BA English, Cleveland State University.

Work Experience: Automation Operator, TRW Inc.; Associate Editor, American Machinist. Primary editor for CAD/CAM technology.

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