Laser Sintering FAQQ. How long does it take to build a tool or a part?
A. Depending on the overall size and complexity of the part a tool can generally be built in less then 14 days. We utilize off the shelf MUD bases that fit standard mold chases. All die components are keep in stock so there are no delays in waiting for materials to show up.
Q. Why choose CPM Fastools over conventional quick turn operations or machine shops?
A. Several items come to mind. First and foremost, you own the tools outright. We consider the process we use, combining Laser Sintering and Cryogenics, to be proprietary but not the hardware and materials. Therefore there is no reason why your tools should be held captive by the builder. You pay for a service and for a tool. When the sample run is complete the tool is yours. Another reason to choose CPM Fastools is you do not compromise your design. Conventional CNC machine techniques require a minimum radius be allowed for all inside corners. With the Direct to Metal Laser Sintering Process there is no need to compromise your design elements. Square inside corners and all. Conventional quick turn tooling companies will also insist on no negative conditions that require side action cams. With the DMLS system CPM Fastools utilizes software that extracts and designs all side action cams, thus allowing the cam faces to be built at the same time as the insert. Side holes, slots and other features are expected and anticipated. With CPM Fastools you simply do not need to compromise your design, period.
Q. If all you do is build tools who does the molding?
A – CPM Fastools is a subsidiary of Chesapeake Plastics Manufacturing, Inc. A full service injection molding company. By utilizing the services of Chesapeake Plastics you bring to bear the full capabilities of an Injection molding company. This includes unlimited material selection and color choices in addition to secondary operations and decorating services. All performed in house.
Q. What is the life expectancy of the tools?
A. CPM Fastools manufactures rapid production tooling, not rapid prototype tooling. The main difference being our tools reach a Rockwell C hardness the exceeds 30. As compared to P-20 or aluminum our tooling is far superior qualifying as a class 103 tool*. Capable of 250,000 cycles before maintanance of parting lines and ejector pins would be required.
Q. What is the cost of the tool?
A. Tool cost is directly related to complexity and therefore the time it takes to build the insert or part. As built, the laser sintered insert is ready to use and can be installed and run where life expectancy is under 25,000 units. For those times when extremely abrasive materials are utilized or cycles higher the 25,000 we recommend the inserts and all mold components be cryogenically processed. This adds an additional cost to the tool, but one easily justified by the customer. As a rule our rapid build production tools are comparable in price to those built by the other quick turn/prototype mold builders, but in our case you own the tool and the capability of a true Injection molding company.
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