3D Printing and Design
From prototype to production…
CSM now boasts a small 3D printing lab.
3D printing is an additive manufacturing method of creating three dimensional objects layer-by-layer using a computer created design. This is the opposite of subtractive manufacturing processes where a final design is cut from a larger block of material - therefore it generates less waste to create a part.
CSM currently offers two types of 3D printing services:
Filament printing uses inexpensive thermoplastic filaments which melt instead of burning when heated and solidify when cooled. This heated filament is fed into a heating chamber and then extruded through a metal nozzle as the extruder assembly moves, tracing a path programmed into a 3D object file to create, layer by layer, the printed object. If in need of Large, functional and durable parts or basic prototypes consider our filament printing service.
VAT Photopolymerization creates parts layer-by-layer through the use of a light to selectively cure liquid resin in a vat. CSM uses the masked stereolithography (MSLA) method of printing which uses a larger ultraviolet light source that SLA printers which is then selectively masked with an LCD screen to create the design. Parts are then cleaned of excess resin after printing and then exposed to a light source to improve the strength of the pieces. CSM will also remove any support structures from the finished print. If in need of precision and smooth finishes for your parts consider our resin printing service.
Rapid prototyping service
Our range of rapid prototyping machinery, using techniques such as 3D Printing and FDM technologies, allow us to provide you with prototype and proof-of-concept parts in a range of materials incorporating both rigid plastic and softer TPE materials.
This machinery allows us to provide you with dimensionally accurate, structural parts that closely resemble the final manufactured product.
Depending on the size and complexity of the print, print times can vary from several days to minutes and can be sent out to you for review.
CSM Pressings’ filament printing service provides a build volume of up to 420 x 420 x 480 mm³ with no minimum size.
CSM’s resin printing capability has a resolution of 7680 x 4320 (8K) and a pixel size of 28 micrometers for great precision prints. Prints are limited to 210mm wide, 123mm deep and 250mm high.
Top: Filament 3D printed prototype true to dimensions Bottom: Metal pressed part based on prototype
CSM’s filament capabilities allow us to currently print in PLA, PETG, TPU, ABS and PVA.
