Medical Device Prototyping

Rapid Manufacturing on Demand

Within the medical industry, prototyping is a critical step in the time-, cost-, and labor-intensive process of launching a new product. The medical device prototyping process produces functional samples to exact design and material specifications for use in product testing and evaluation stages and business presentations. These samples enable manufacturers to verify the efficacy and manufacturability of the design and determine whether design changes are necessary before proceeding to large-scale production and market distribution.

How to Build a Medical Device Prototype

At 3ERP, we rely on several precision machining techniques to build our clients’ medical prototypes, including:

CNC machining. Our precision CNC machining capabilities, including turning, EDM, wire EDM, surface grinding, and CNC milling services allow us to create complex 3D shapes, geometries, features, and surfaces on metal (including aluminum) and plastic substrates. The machining process produces tight tolerance medical device prototypes and products accurately and repeatedly.

Clear acrylic machining and polishing. Surface finishing operations, such as clear acrylic machining and polishing, alter the surface of the prototype or product to provide a distinct or desired aesthetic or function. These techniques can change the appearance and add other characteristics to the part, such as greater corrosion resistance or conductivity. For acrylic specifically, the machining and polishing operations facilitate the production of products with high clarity and precision, such as lenses and prisms.

Aluminum machining. Aluminum is a low-density, high-strength substance. Machining and polishing the material allows manufacturers to produce high quality, close tolerances, products, and prototypes.

Vacuum casting. Vacuum casting is ideal for creating rigid and flexible parts and prototypes. At 3ERP, we offer hundreds of casting polymers and a variety of color options to select from, as well as turnaround times of 15 days or less for up to 20 parts (depending on part design and volume). Compared to other prototyping methods, such as injection molding, this process provides better surface finishes and is more affordable as the molds are less expensive and more durable.

Reaction injection molding (RIM). Reaction injection molding produces strong, lightweight parts and prototypes. Compared to other injection molding methods, the process allows for more complex and intricate part geometries at a low cost per part. Additionally, in general, 3erp’s injection molding services enable repeatable, high volume production (into the millions).

Know About Rapid Medical Manufacturing On Demand

Request Your Quote for a Medical Prototype Project Review Today

At 3E Rapid Prototyping (3ERP), our team is dedicated to providing you with excellent, efficient, and economical rapid prototyping and manufacturing solutions. Our experience, expert team, and cutting-edge equipment allow us to bring your ideas from design to market.

To learn more about our capabilities or help with prototyping your next medical device, contact us, or request a quote today.