developing your product

CAD design

If you only have an idea, replica or a sketch we can quickly turn this into a workable 3D model for fast prototype production. We can produce a 3D model or a fully dimensioned 2D engineered drawing.

The 3D model can be adjusted to eradicate possible casting defects assisted by the casting simulation software. We can offer 3D Modelling and 2D drafting. Our Solid Works 3D Modelling CAD system can accept files via email or CD-ROM, in various formats such as:

• IGES
• STEP
• ACIS
• STL PARASOLID
• DXF
• DWG
• Pro Engineer files
• Catia
• Solid Edge
• AutoCAD, or similar 2D/3D CAD systems

After the CAD work we can send you the solidworks files or if you have no CAD software we can send you edrawings, this drawing format is a combined 2D and 3D configuration and allows you to manipulate the 3D model yourself.

To see a demonstration of an edrawing, first download and install the necessary software by clicking here. After installing the software, download the demonstration file by right clicking here and choosing 'save target as', download the file to your computer and double click it to open.

Tool design

Control of the die splits and method of manufacture

Our preference is to manufacture tools by CAD/CAM which enables machining of complex shapes with ease and accuracy. The quality of the casting is dictated by the quality of the tooling. We believe that the tool should not be compromised - after all it only has to be made once and helps drive towards our 'right first time' policy. Let us help you take competitive advantage with new and innovative designs.

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simulation

We use casting simulation software, which is important to achieve a good casting design. It enables us to predict defects at the design stage and therefore reduce development time and cost. It can also avoid the need for the casting prototype stage. The software is reliable and allows you to progress on to the hard tooling with confidence that the design will not need adjusting. Changes to hard tooling can be costly and time consuming, ultimately they will result in slower product launch dates. A good casting design will help ensure high quality, a competitive price and shorter lead times throughout the life of the product.

www.alphacast-software.co.uk

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fast prototype

If you only have an idea, replica or a sketch we can quickly turn this into a workable 3D model for fast prototyping production. We can produce a 3D model or a fully dimensioned 2D engineered drawing. The 3D model can be adjusted to eradicate possible casting defects assisted by the casting simulation software. On your acceptance of the final design fast prototypes can be produced within 2-3 weeks at a fraction of the conventional tooling costs.

Our fast prototyping process is quick and cost effective solution to visualising and testing your product. This flexible service allows designers to experiment and test any idea. Taking your CAD designs, we can turn them directly into a wax pattern, which can be used to produce investment castings in a range of metals.

Our service includes showing you our ideas by producing 3D models or 2D drawing, which you will be able to animate allowing you to visualise perfectly our proposed changes.

Realistic 3D images
This may help you to test the market place and sell your idea to your prospective customers.

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