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RAPID PROTOTYPING SERVICES

Rapid Prototyping\nwith RapidDirect

Validate concepts faster with a flexible mix of CNC machining, sheet metal fabrication, 3D printing, and vacuum casting for appearance models, functional prototypes, and bridge production parts.

Rapid prototyping

Trusted by product teams worldwide for rapid development and fast iteration.

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Rapid prototyping intro

What is\nRapid Prototyping

Rapid prototyping is the fast creation of physical parts for form, fit, and functional validation before full-scale production. It helps teams compare options, reduce design risk, and make faster development decisions.

SpeedQuickly validate designs before committing to production tooling.
FlexibilityUse different processes and materials based on geometry, budget, and timeline.
ConfidenceReduce risk by testing real parts with functional and visual reviews.
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Rapid Prototyping Services

CNC PrototypingSheet Metal Prototyping3D PrintingVacuum Casting

Rapid CNC Prototyping Service

Use CNC machining to create durable and accurate prototypes for functional validation, assembly checks, and engineering tests.

MaterialsMetals and plastics
Lead TimeAs fast as 1 day
Best forHigh precision parts
Rapid CNC Prototyping Service

Rapid Prototype Injection Molding Service

Prototype tooling helps create molded plastic samples and small batches for market testing, fit checks, and pre-production validation.

MaterialsEngineering plastics
Lead TimeTypically 2–4 weeks
Best forLow-volume molded prototypes
Rapid Prototype Injection Molding Service

Rapid Sheet Metal Prototyping Service

Fabricate sheet metal prototypes for brackets, enclosures, panels, and assemblies with fast bends, cuts, and finish options.

MaterialsAluminum, steel, stainless steel
Lead TimeAs fast as 3 days
Best forEnclosures and brackets
Rapid Sheet Metal Prototyping Service

Rapid 3D Prototyping Service

Leverage additive manufacturing for highly complex geometries, quick concept models, and rapid design iterations.

ProcessesSLA, SLS, MJF, FDM
Lead TimeAs fast as 1 day
Best forSpeed and geometry freedom
Rapid 3D Prototyping Service

Rapid Vacuum Casting Prototyping Service

Produce small-batch plastic parts with production-like appearance and feel using silicone tooling and polyurethane materials.

VolumesLow-volume batches
Lead TimeTypically 7–10 days
Best forAppearance models and bridge production
Rapid Vacuum Casting Prototyping Service

How to Choose\nThe Right Rapid Prototyping Technique

Different prototype goals require different processes. Compare common methods by speed, accuracy, material range, and application fit.

CriteriaAdvantageConsideration
Lead Time3D printing and CNC machining are often the fastest for early prototype parts.Injection molding needs tooling lead time before parts can be produced.
AccuracyCNC machining and sheet metal fabrication support tight tolerances and good repeatability.Some additive processes may require more post-processing for critical fit.
Finished SurfaceVacuum casting and CNC machining can deliver refined appearance-quality surfaces.Layer lines or tooling marks may need additional finishing depending on process.
Material OptionsCNC and molding offer broad access to production-grade materials.Some prototype methods use substitute materials rather than final production equivalents.
Best forUse 3D printing for speed, CNC for function, sheet metal for enclosures, molding for plastic validation, and vacuum casting for low-volume appearance parts.No single process is best for every part, timeline, and budget.

Why\nChoose Us

/01

High Quality

Consistent process control, inspection routines, and experienced engineers help keep prototype quality on track.

/02

Fast Lead Times

Flexible manufacturing routes and a broad supplier network shorten iteration cycles and delivery times.

/03

Expert Support

Work with technical teams who can guide process selection, DFM review, and prototype optimization.

Success Stories of\nOur Valued Customers

Accelerated prototype delivery and production-ready engineering support.

“Rapid development support helped us move from concept review to prototype validation much faster than expected.”
Product Development Team
Success story

We Support\nFrom Prototyping to Production

Prototype Review

Review geometry, functional goals, and lead-time expectations before manufacturing begins.

Technology & Material Match

Select the most suitable rapid prototyping process and material combination for your use case.

Bridge to Production

Use prototype learnings to transition into tooling, quality planning, and scalable production execution.

Prototype example

Try RapidDirect\nnow, for free

Prototype example

Resources

Rapid Prototyping Basics

An overview of common prototyping methods and how to choose between them.

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Prototype Materials Guide

Compare common material families for functional, visual, and pre-production prototypes.

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DFM for Early Development

Learn how design-for-manufacturing feedback improves prototype efficiency and downstream production.

Learn More →