FAQWelcome to the FAQ section of OLA Manufacturing Platform! Here are some answers to frequently asked questions about our platform and the services we offer for the 4 industries we manage: 3D printing, Injection molding, CNC Machining, and Sheet metal fabrication.
What are the most common applications in prototyping?
Design Prototypes
Design prototypes are created to evaluate aesthetic and ergonomic features. They serve three key purposes:
1. Facilitating detailed design studies, including spatial representation, proportions, aesthetics, haptics, and technical functionality.
2. Acting as presentation models for decision-making or customer approval.
3. Providing the foundation for generating 3D data required for design and production.
Functional Prototypes
Functional prototypes demonstrate the essential performance characteristics of a final production component. These prototypes verify mechanical, electrical, acoustic, or thermal properties to ensure functionality.
Geometric Prototypes
Geometric prototypes are precision models designed for initial assembly and user testing. They focus on verifying form, fit accuracy, and tolerances, with less emphasis on material-specific properties.
Concept Prototypes
Concept prototypes are created to visualize a particular idea or explore innovative concepts during the development process.
Processes, materials and advantages of selective laser melting (SLM)?
- Process: Laser melts metal powder (titanium, aluminum).
- Materials: Ti6Al4V, AlSi10Mg, stainless steel.
- Advantages: 99.9% density for load-bearing aerospace/medical parts.
Processes, materials and advantages of selective laser sintering(SLS)?
- Process: Laser sinters nylon/TPU powder.
- Materials: PA12, PA11-GF, flexible TPU.
- Advantages: No supports needed, ideal for complex internals.
Processes, materials and advantages of Stereolithography (SLA)?
- Process: UV laser cures liquid resin layer-by-layer.
- Materials: Standard resins (ABS-like), biocompatible, high-temperature.
- Advantages: ±0.05mm accuracy, smooth surfaces for dental or jewelry.
Can you provide material and surface samples?
We are pleased to offer material samples for many of our 3D-printing materials, either from our existing stock or through production. These are available as tension rods or technology sample boxes. To order a technology sample box, please click here. For tension rods, we kindly invite you to contact sales representative.
What post-processing options do you offer?
Choose from sanding, painting, electroplating, annealing, or vapor smoothing. We also provide assembly and quality inspection.
How to choose between FDM and FGF for large parts?
- FDM: Standard thermoplastics (ABS, PETG) for medium-sized parts.
- FGF: Reinforced composites (carbon fiber) for oversized, robust components (e.g., automotive tooling).
Can you combine multiple technologies in one project?
Yes! Example: Metal hinges (SLM) + plastic housings (MJF). Discuss multi-process needs with our engineers for seamless integration.
Which technology is best for high-detail prototypes?
SLA/DLP/LCD resin printing delivers ±0.1mm accuracy for miniatures, dental models, and jewelry. For color details, use MJF with grayscale or dyeing options.
What’s the difference between SLM, SLS, and MJF?
- SLM: Laser-melts metal powders (titanium/aluminum) for dense, durable parts.
- SLS: Sinters nylon/TPU powders – ideal for complex geometries.
- MJF: Faster, cheaper than SLS with smoother surfaces (multi-jet fusion).
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