We are happy to announce a successful acquisition of CA Models

We are pleased to announce the acquisition of CA Models, an additive manufacturing specialist based in Stirling, Scotland.

The acquisition reinforces Prototal Industries’ market position in the UK, adds metal additive manufacturing to group offering and further enhances its general capabilities in delivering innovative manufacturing solutions.

The acquisition of CA Models marks a significant milestone in Prototal Industries’ growth strategy, demonstrating its commitment to expanding its presence and offerings to the manufacturing industry in the UK. The addition of CA Models to the group also adds important expert competence and capacity to the already established Prototal UK operations, located in Newbury, England.

We are thrilled to welcome CA Models into Prototal Industries. This strategic move aligns with our vision for growth and innovation and will strengthen our capabilities for production volumes with additive manufacturing. We are confident that the integration of our teams will be successful and further strengthen our position as the preferred production partner in Europe and the UK. Jan Löfving, CEO, Prototal Industries

The acquisition of CA Models brings complementary strengths, expertise, and capabilities to Prototal Industries. It enables Prototal to offer a broader range of services and solutions, including metal additive manufacturing, 5-axis CNC machining, CNC turning, EDM wire erosion, CMM inspection, 3D scanning and a vast range of polymer additive manufacturing such as SLA and SLS, requiring highly intricate model making skills.

We are delighted to join the Prototal Industries family and are excited to contribute our skills and expertise to expand on the wide range of technology the group already has. With our strong experience in metal additive manufacturing and precision CNC machining, Prototal Industries can now offer its customers an even wider range of component manufacturing solutions. Gregory Campbell, Operations Director of CA Models

The acquisition was completed on February 1st and Prototal Industries and CA Models are now working at full speed to secure a smooth and effective integration of the new team. Collectively, CA Models and the Prototal UK team will have an expanded market presence, enabling Prototal to reach a wider audience and serve customers more effectively and efficiently across the United Kingdom.

For more information

For more information about Prototal Industries and the recent acquisition, please visit www.prototalindustries.com or contact Jan Löfving at +46 (0)765-387222 or jan.lofving@prototalindustries.com.

About Prototal Industries

Prototal Industries is Europe’s largest provider of additive manufacturing, injection molding, vacuum casting, and aluminum tooling. Our aim is to be the most flexible and competent partner in the manufacturing business. With our state-of-the-art facilities and experienced team, we deliver high-quality products and services to meet the diverse needs of our global clientele. With facilities in Austria, Denmark, Italy, Norway, Sweden & United Kingdom our customers can take advantage of a distributed network of manufacturing facilities whilst still maintaining short delivery times, additive manufacturing in production, regardless of business needs and locations. Read more at www.prototalindustries.com.

About CA Models

Established in 1983, CA Models has been setting the standard for excellence in the manufacturing industry for over 40 years. Specialising in additive manufacturing, precision CNC machining and specialist model making, CA Models is committed to providing customers with a quality product and responsive service. This is achieved through CA Models unique blend of market-leading technologies and model making craftsmanship. CA Models is an established, revered rapid prototyping and model making business, working across many industries including Aerospace, Automotive, Formula 1, Defence, Medical Device, Oil and Gas and Product Design. Read more at www.camodels.co.uk.

Exciting News: Pro X 950

We are thrilled to announce a significant milestone in our journey of technological advancement at Prototal – the introduction of the cutting-edge Pro X 950 SLA machine

Pro X 950: A Technological Marvel

Representing a paradigm shift in our manufacturing capabilities, the Pro X 950 SLA machine is already reshaping how we approach advanced prototype manufacturing. Boasting dual lasers, this machine opens up a new era of possibilities for us.

Impressive Dimensions and Technological Advancements

Not only is the Pro X 950 the largest SLA machine in our workshop, but it also comes with remarkable technological advancements. Featuring dual lasers and an impressive capacity, it enables the manufacturing of details with dimensions of 1500 cm in length, 750 cm in width, and 550 cm in height – a feat previously inconceivable, placing us in a unique position to exceed our customers' expectations.

Benefits of Pro X 950:

Strengthening Parts in One Piece

Building large parts up to 1500 mm in length in one piece enhances part strength by eliminating weaknesses typically found in attachment points. This feature also frees up additional resources that would otherwise be consumed in assembling different segments.

ProX 950 – A Gold Standard in SLA Technology

ProX 950 SLA 3D printer offers a single point of contact for expert support and daily use of our exceptional SLA technology. With a broad range of materials for diverse applications, it is highly efficient with minimal waste and low total ownership costs.

Printing Extra-Large Parts with Precision

ProX 950 can print extra-large parts or batches of highly detailed smaller parts – all with the same exceptional resolution and accuracy. Parts maintain precision across the entire build platform, print after print, machine after machine.

This significant investment in the Pro X 950 reaffirms our commitment to remaining at the forefront of technology, delivering high-quality solutions to our customers. Exciting times lie ahead for us and our customers, with increased capacity and the ability to meet and exceed even the most demanding project requirements.

For more information about the Pro X 950 and our extensive range of services in advanced manufacturing, please visit our website or reach out to any of our dedicated sales representatives. Explore the future of manufacturing with Prototal!

A New Era Unveiled: Arburg 520 S-machine

Prototal Jönköping Introduces the Cutting-edge Arburg 520 S Machine!

We are thrilled beyond measure to share groundbreaking news with our esteemed clientele and partners. Prototal in Jönköping proudly announces the integration of the state-of-the-art Arburg 520 S machine into our production arsenal—a significant leap forward in our pursuit of excellence.

In a milestone event last Thursday, the ambiance at our facility buzzed with excitement as we welcomed the arrival of the Arburg 520 S. This revolutionary injection molding machine promises to reshape the landscape of precision manufacturing. Our team, driven by passion and dedication, joined forces to orchestrate the seamless installation of this marvel, and the result is nothing short of spectacular.

A Catalyst for Evolution: Transforming Possibilities

The Arburg 520 S machine isn't just an addition; it's an embodiment of our commitment to delivering unparalleled quality and expanding our capabilities. With its cutting-edge technology and advanced control system, this machine empowers us to navigate the complex intricacies of modern manufacturing with finesse. From intricate designs to rapid production cycles, the Arburg 520 S opens doors to new horizons. This translates to enhanced precision, reduced lead times, and a remarkable increase in production capacity—ultimately benefiting both us and our esteemed clients.

A Partnership Beyond Boundaries: Elevating Customer Experience

But the impact extends far beyond our walls. We are delighted to share that the integration of the Arburg 520 S will bring tangible benefits to our valued customers. The precision and efficiency of this machine ensure that each product that leaves our facility is a testament to our dedication to perfection. Our customers can expect:

Uncompromised Precision: The Arburg 520 S guarantees the replication of intricate designs and dimensions with unparalleled accuracy, ensuring that every component meets the highest standards.

Faster Turnaround: The advanced technology within the machine allows us to expedite production without compromising on quality. This means reduced lead times for our clients, helping them meet their project deadlines more effectively.

Customization: The versatility of the Arburg 520 S enables us to cater to a wider array of project specifications. Customization that once seemed complex is now achievable without a hitch.

As we stand on the precipice of this new chapter, we invite you to join us in embracing this transformation. The Arburg 520 S is more than a machine—it's a symbol of innovation, dedication, and progress. Together, we're shaping a future where possibilities are limitless, quality is unwavering, and partnerships are fortified.

Stay tuned as we embark on this exciting journey, and witness firsthand the revolution that the Arburg 520 S machine brings to Prototal in Jönköping.

Thank you for being part of our incredible journey!

An Introduction to 3D Printing

The Future of the Manufacturing Industry

3D printing is a revolutionary technology that is changing how we manufacture things and opening up incredible opportunities across various industries. Let's take a closer look at what 3D printing really is and why it has become so significant.

What is 3D Printing?

3D printing, also known as additive manufacturing, is a process of creating physical objects by building up materials in layers. Instead of subtracting material from a raw material, as in traditional manufacturing, a 3D printer builds the object by adding material incrementally based on a digital model. This enables the creation of complex shapes and intricate structures that were previously difficult or impossible to manufacture using other methods.

How Does 3D Printing Work?

3D printing starts with the creation of a digital 3D model, either through computer-aided design (CAD) or by using a 3D scanner to replicate an existing object. The digital model is then sliced into thin layers, and the 3D printer builds the object by progressively adding material layer by layer until the final product is complete. The materials used can vary, including plastics, metals, ceramics, and even living tissues in certain medical applications.

Why is 3D Printing Important?

3D printing has the potential to transform how we manufacture products and impact a wide range of industries. Here are some reasons why 3D printing has become so important:

  1. Rapid Prototyping:
    With 3D printing, companies can quickly and cost-effectively create prototypes and test their ideas before moving into mass production. This reduces the time and cost of the product development cycle and enables faster innovation.
  2. Customized Manufacturing:
    3D printing allows for the creation of products that are tailored to individual customer needs and preferences. This opens up a whole new level of personalization and has the potential to revolutionize the manufacturing industry.
  3. Complex Geometries:
    Traditional manufacturing methods often have limitations when it comes to creating complex geometries and structures. With 3D printing, it becomes possible to produce objects with intricate geometries and internal structures that can be extremely challenging or impossible to manufacture using other means.
  4. Resource Efficiency:
    3D printing reduces waste by utilizing only the amount of material needed to create an object. Additionally, recycled materials can be used in 3D printers, reducing environmental impact and promoting sustainability.

The Future of 3D Printing:

3D printing technology is evolving rapidly and opening up exciting possibilities for the future. We can expect to see improvements in areas such as material selection, printing speed, and scalability. Furthermore, 3D printers are becoming more accessible and affordable, making the technology available to both businesses and individuals.

Conclusion:

3D printing is a groundbreaking technology with the potential to revolutionize the manufacturing industry. By enabling rapid prototyping, customized manufacturing, and the creation of complex geometries, 3D printing unlocks infinite possibilities and innovations. We are excited to follow the advancements in this exciting field and witness how 3D printing will shape the future of manufacturing.

An Introduction to Vacuum Castingen

An Overview of the Manufacturing Method and Its Benefits

Vacuum casting is a process used to create high-quality prototypes and small series of complex plastic parts. Let's take a look at what vacuum casting entails and the benefits it can offer.

What is Vacuum Casting?

Vacuum casting is a molding process where a liquid plastic, typically polyurethane (PU), is poured into a mold that is an exact replica of the desired part. The mold is then placed inside a vacuum chamber where the air is evacuated to create a vacuum. This allows the plastic to fill the mold accurately, eliminating any air bubbles or porosity in the finished object.

How Does Vacuum Casting Work?

Vacuum casting begins with creating a 3D model of the desired part using computer-aided design (CAD). Then, a master model of the part is created using 3D printing or other methods. The master model is used to create a silicone mold, which acts as a negative of the part. Once the silicone mold is ready, the liquid plastic is poured into the mold and then placed in the vacuum chamber for curing and solidification. Once the process is complete, the finished part is removed from the mold and post-processed if necessary.

Benefits of Vacuum Casting:
Vacuum casting offers several advantages that make it an attractive manufacturing method for prototypes and small series of plastic parts

  1. Cost-effectiveness:
    Vacuum casting is relatively cost-effective for producing smaller volumes. It does not require significant investments in tools or molds like traditional injection molding. This makes it particularly beneficial for small businesses and product development projects with a limited budget.
  2. Speed:
    Vacuum casting enables rapid prototyping and shorter lead times compared to traditional manufacturing methods. The process can be completed within a few days, allowing for quick testing and verification of design concepts.
  3. Complex details:
    With vacuum casting, it is possible to create parts with high precision and complex geometries. Thin-walled structures, hollow parts, and details with fine surfaces and textures can be achieved.
  4. Material versatility:
    Vacuum casting allows for the use of a wide range of plastic materials. This provides flexibility in choosing the most suitable material for the specific application, including materials with different mechanical properties, colors, and finishing options.
  5. Quality and reproducibility:
    Vacuum casting results in high-quality parts with minimal deviations. The process enables reproducibility and consistency in producing multiple identical parts.

Vacuum casting is a versatile and cost-effective manufacturing method for prototypes and small series of plastic parts. Its ability to create complex details with high quality and fast lead times makes it a popular choice for businesses and designers across various industries. We hope this overview has provided you with a basic understanding of vacuum casting and its benefits. If you would like to learn more or have any questions, feel free to contact us.

An Introduction to Injection Moulding

An Overview of the Manufacturing Method and Its Benefits

What is injection moulding?

Injection moulding is a manufacturing method where plastic material is melted and injected into a mold, where it solidifies and takes the shape of the desired part. The mold, which is specially designed to match the part's shape, can be made of metal or durable plastic. Injection moulding is used to produce various types of products, from small details like buttons and lids to larger components such as car interiors and household appliances.

How does injection moulding work?

Injection moulding consists of several steps that ensure a proper manufacturing process. Here's an overview of the key steps in injection moulding:

  1. Mold fabrication:
    First, a mold or tool is created, typically through metal machining or the fabrication of durable plastic. The mold is designed to precisely replicate the part's shape and may consist of two halves that can be opened and closed.
  2. Material melting:
    Plastic material, usually in the form of pellets or granules, is fed into the injection moulding machine where it is melted into a liquid form through heating. The temperature and pressure in the machine are carefully controlled to achieve the right melt consistency.
  3. Injection:
    Once the plastic material is melted, and the mold is ready, the molten material is injected into the mold through a nozzle or screw. This is done under high pressure to fill the mold accurately and eliminate any voids or air bubbles.
  4. Cooling phase:
    After the plastic material is injected into the mold, it is cooled to solidify and maintain the shape. Cooling can be achieved by externally cooling the mold or by using an internal cooling system inside the mold.
  5. Opening and ejection:
    Once the injected plastic material has solidified, and the mold has been adequately cooled, the mold is opened, and the finished part is ejected. Depending on the complexity of the part, additional post-processing such as removal of excess material or surface finishing may be required.

Benefits of injection moulding:

Injection moulding offers several advantages that make it a popular manufacturing method in the plastic industry:

  1. Scalability and volume production:
    Injection moulding enables the production of large volumes of plastic parts in a short time. This makes it ideal for companies that need to manufacture and deliver large quantities of products quickly.
  2. Cost-effectiveness:
    When producing large volumes, injection moulding can be highly cost-effective. Once the mold is made, it can be used to produce many parts without significant investments in tools or molds.
  3. Design flexibility:
    Injection moulding allows the production of parts with complex shapes and patterns. It also provides flexibility in choosing different plastic materials and colors to achieve the desired design and functionality.
  4. Quality and precision:
    Injection moulding results in parts with high precision and repeatability. The mold allows for the creation of parts with minimal variations and high quality, which is crucial for ensuring product performance and reliability.

Injection moulding is a reliable and efficient manufacturing method for producing large volumes of plastic parts. Its scalability, cost-effectiveness, and ability to create complex parts make it a popular choice across various industries. If you want to learn more or have any questions, feel free to contact us.

Explore Popular Applications of SLA Technology for Additive Manufacturing

As one of the most advanced techniques in additive manufacturing, Stereolithography (SLA) offers a range of benefits and applications.

SLA has become an indispensable solution for many industries, thanks to its ability to produce detailed and high-quality objects with precision and efficiency. Let's explore some of the most popular applications of SLA technology and how it can benefit your business. 

1. Rapid Prototyping

SLA is a perfect solution for rapid prototyping. With its ability to create complex geometries and detailed surfaces, SLA technology can quickly produce realistic prototypes for products in various industries. This allows for rapid testing and validation of design concepts before moving into production, saving time and resources. 

2. Molding and Casting

SLA technology is also used to create molds and casting patterns. By producing high-quality, precision molds, companies can streamline their molding and casting processes. SLA enables the manufacture of molds with complex geometries and fine details, resulting in high-quality end products. 

3. Dental and Medical Technology

SLA is used in the dental and medical technology fields to manufacture custom dental implants, prosthetics, and surgical guides. By utilizing the patient's specific anatomical data, SLA technology can produce precise and fitting medical products. The high accuracy and biocompatibility of SLA prints make them a reliable solution in healthcare. 

4. Jewelry Manufacturing

SLA technology has also gained popularity in the jewelry industry. By using high-quality resin materials, SLA can produce detailed and intricate jewelry designs with high precision and fine surfaces. This provides designers and jewelers with the opportunity to create unique and personalized jewelry pieces. 

5. Architecture and Modeling

Within the architecture and design field, SLA is used to create detailed models and prototypes of buildings and structures. SLA technology enables accuracy and visualization of design concepts, helping architects and designers communicate their ideas to clients and stakeholders. 

SLA technology has revolutionized additive manufacturing and offers a range of applications across different industries. By utilizing SLA, businesses can benefit from rapid prototyping, streamlining production processes, enhancing design capabilities, and achieving high-quality results. Embracing SLA technology allows your business to harness innovation, competitiveness, and success in the market. 

Explore Popular Applications of PolyJet Technology for Additive Manufacturing

PolyJet technology is a groundbreaking method in additive manufacturing that is revolutionizing the way companies create products. 

Using PolyJet, high-quality objects with exceptional details and complex geometries can be produced. This technology offers a range of benefits and applications for various industries and can help businesses drive innovation and efficiency forward. Let's explore some of the most popular applications of PolyJet technology and how it can benefit your company. 

1. Prototyping

PolyJet technology is an ideal solution for rapid prototyping. By using PolyJet, companies can create realistic prototypes with excellent surface quality and precision. This enables faster product development, design validation, and reduces the need for traditional prototyping methods. 

2. Product Development and Design Optimization

PolyJet technology provides companies with the opportunity to explore and optimize design alternatives. By 3D printing prototypes and models with different materials and properties, companies can test and evaluate various concepts before moving to the production phase. This saves time and reduces the risk of costly mistakes. 

3. Mold Making and Tooling

PolyJet technology is also used for creating molds and tools for molding processes. By using high-quality PolyJet materials, companies can create molds with detailed surfaces and complex geometries. This allows for the manufacturing of molds and tools with high precision and shorter lead times. 

4. Custom Manufacturing and Personalization

PolyJet technology enables the creation of customized products and personalized accessories. By using PolyJet, companies can offer their customers unique products that fit their individual needs and preferences. This creates an opportunity to differentiate themselves in the market and build customer loyalty. 

5. Dental and Medical Technology

In the dental and medical fields, PolyJet technology is used to manufacture dental models, surgical guides, and anatomical models. PolyJet can create high-resolution, detailed models that are useful for planning and visualization in dentistry and surgery. This helps improve accuracy and efficiency in the treatment process. 

PolyJet technology offers a range of applications and benefits for companies striving to drive innovation and efficiency. With PolyJet, you can quickly produce prototypes, optimize designs, manufacture molds and tools, create customized products, and contribute to advancements in dental and medical technology. By embracing PolyJet technology, your company can leverage increased competitiveness and success in the market. 

Discovering Popular Uses of MJF Technology in Additive Manufacturing

MJF technology has emerged as a groundbreaking method in additive manufacturing, transforming the way businesses create products.  

With MJF, companies can produce high-quality objects with intricate details and complex geometries. This technology offers a range of benefits and applications across different industries, driving innovation and efficiency. Let's explore some of the popular uses of MJF technology and how it can benefit your business. 

1. Fast Prototyping and Iterative Design 

MJF technology provides an ideal solution for quick prototyping. By using MJF, businesses can create realistic prototypes with excellent surface quality and precise details. This allows for faster product development, design validation, and reduces the need for traditional prototyping methods. 

2. Custom Manufacturing and Small-Batch Production 

 MJF technology enables customized manufacturing and small-batch production. Businesses can create personalized products that cater to individual customer preferences efficiently. This versatility is particularly valuable in industries where customization plays a crucial role in customer satisfaction and market competitiveness. 

3. Complex Geometries and Lightweight Structures 

MJF technology excels in producing parts with complex geometries and lightweight structures. Its accuracy and ability to fuse materials make it ideal for manufacturing intricate components that traditional methods struggle to produce. This opens up opportunities in industries like aerospace, automotive, and medical devices, where lightweight and intricate parts are essential. 

4. Functional End-Use Parts 

MJF technology is renowned for its ability to create functional end-use parts. With high-quality printing and excellent mechanical properties, MJF produces parts that meet industry standards and can withstand real-world applications. From mechanical components to consumer electronics, MJF-produced parts offer durability, reliability, and performance. 

5. Tooling and Jigs 

MJF technology is not limited to end-use parts but also excels in producing tooling and jigs. By leveraging MJF's speed and accuracy, companies can manufacture custom tooling and jigs that enhance their manufacturing processes. This reduces lead times, optimizes production efficiency, and streamlines operations in various industries. 

MJF technology has revolutionized additive manufacturing, providing numerous applications and advantages for businesses across different sectors. Whether it's rapid prototyping, customized manufacturing, or the production of complex parts, MJF offers the versatility, speed, and precision needed to drive innovation and competitiveness. By embracing MJF technology, your company can achieve faster product development, efficient small-batch production, and high-quality functional parts. Embrace the power of MJF to propel your business forward in the additive manufacturing field. 

Explore Popular SAF Applications in Additive Manufacturing

Selective Laser Melting (SLM) using SAF technology has revolutionized the additive manufacturing industry, opening up a world of possibilities for businesses.

With the ability to create complex and durable metal parts, SAF offers a range of benefits and applications across various industries. In this blog post, we will explore some popular SAF applications and how they can benefit your business. 

1. Rapid Prototyping and Fast Product Development 

SAF technology is an ideal solution for rapid prototyping and fast product development. With its ability to create metal components with high precision and complex geometries, companies can quickly test and validate their design concepts before moving into production. This saves time and resources, giving businesses a competitive advantage in the market. 

2. Custom Part Manufacturing and Small Series Production 

SAF technology enables the manufacturing of custom parts and small series with high-quality metal production. Companies can produce unique and tailored components that meet specific requirements and needs of their customers. This opens up opportunities for differentiation and building loyal customer relationships. 

3. Manufacturing of Functional End-Use Parts 

One of the most exciting applications of SAF technology is the manufacturing of functional end-use parts. With high density and strength, SAF-produced metal components can withstand demanding environments and applications. This allows companies to manufacture high-quality end products with long-term durability and reliability. 

4. Repair and Replacement 

SAF technology has also proven to be useful for repair and replacement of metal components. Instead of manufacturing an entirely new part, companies can use SAF to repair or replace damaged or worn-out parts. This saves time and costs compared to traditional methods and keeps production running without unnecessary interruptions. 

SAF technology has changed the game in additive manufacturing and offers businesses a multitude of applications and benefits. By leveraging SAF, companies can take advantage of rapid prototyping, custom manufacturing, production of functional end-use parts, and repair of damaged components. Embracing SAF technology can strengthen your business's position in the market, drive innovation, and achieve success in additive manufacturing.