A Comparison of the Hot-Chamber and Cold-Chamber Processes

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Examining the Differences Between Hot-Chamber and Cold-Chamber Die Casting

What is Die Casting?

In the most basic terms, die casting is the process that involves the use of high pressure to force molten metal into a mold cavity to produce metal parts; these mold cavities are made of two hardened tool steel dies that are machined to conform to the specifications of the respective part or product.  For optimum results, most die castings are manufactured from non-ferrous metals i.e., metals that do not contain iron to any appreciable amount.

There are essentially two types of die casting processes – hot-chamber and cold-chamber:

What is Hot-Chamber Die Casting?

Hot-Chamber Die Casting Process – a pool of molten metal is forced into the mold cavity via pressure applied by a pneumatic-powered or hydraulic-powered piston.  The advantages of hot-chamber die casting include fast cycle times (up to 15 cycles per minute on average) and the convenience of melting the metal directly in the chamber/machine; a drawback to this process is its limitation to metals with low melting points only.

What is Cold-Chamber Die Casting?

Cold-Chamber Die Casting Process – use of this method requires the metal to be melted in a separate furnace then transported in precise amounts to the cold-chamber machine; this molten metal is then injected or shot into the mold by hydraulic or mechanical pistons.  Use of the cold-chamber die casting process is ideal metals with high melting temperatures; its primary disadvantage is longer cycle times, due to the additional step of transferring the molten metal from a separate furnace to the machine.

As intimated above, the metal point or metal temperature of the respective metal dictates the type of die casting process that must be applied; a synopsis of the common metals most often used in each method would include:

  • Hot-Chamber Die Casting
    • Low melting-point metals/alloys – zinc, lead, magnesium 
  • Cold-Chamber Die Casting
    • High melting-point metals/alloys – brass, copper, aluminum

In general, die casting is one of the most versatile metalworking processes; consequently, the use of die casting is common across a wide range of industries for the manufacturing of parts, components, and finished products in a variety of shapes and sizes.

Some examples of its application would include:

  • Golf equipment
  • Camera housings
  • Electronic housings
  • Locks and deadbolts
  • Pumps and compressors
  • Hospital bed control panels
  • Dental workstation baseplates

It is important to note that few metalworking/manufacturing methods can be applied for all products or with all types of materials, and this relates to die casting as well; some of the limitations of the hot-chamber and cold-chamber die casting processes are the lack of cost-effectiveness for low-volume production runs and its diminished efficiency when the weight of a part or product exceeds 75 pounds.

Precision Molds for Optimal Results in Hot-Chamber and Cold-Chamber Die Casting

Many of the production efficiencies/benefits associated with either method of die casting are directly dependent on the accuracy and quality of the molds used in the specific processes.  And while manufacturers might have the financial assets to invest in die casting equipment that can be used on a repeat basis, this may not be applicable to the one-time development of the actual mold or molds.

In order to achieve optimal benefits from their use of die casting, manufacturers might want to engage the mold-making expertise of the team at Noble Precision; these capabilities are supported by Noble Precision’s investment in state-of-the-art technology, specifically the latest in 5-axis simultaneous CNC machines and CAD/CAM software.

For further insight on the die casting services offered by Noble Precision, including precision mold making, see our die casting process page.

Call the precision mold making specialists from Noble Precision at 647-499-7569 today or contact us to request a complimentary consultation on our cutting-edge technologies and services and how we can support your hot-chamber and cold-chamber die casting needs.

Rapid Prototyping and Its Importance in Precision Manufacturing

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Rapid Prototyping and Its Advantages in Product Development and Manufacturing

By definition, rapid prototyping is the production of a scale model (prototype) of a physical part or product using multi-dimensional computer-aided design (CAD) software. The actual construction of that part or product is done via 3D-printing or additive layer manufacturing technology. And, in fact, the terms three-dimensional printing or additive manufacturing are often used interchangeably to describe the process of rapid prototyping.

Very often, when product designers want to demonstrate how new products will look, feel, and perform, they do so through digital models; while this is the more inexpensive method, it may not be conducive to gaining approval for the design from management and/or clients. Because these groups often want to see new products in physical rather than virtual form.

But building a physical model can be time-consuming, not to mention expensive. Especially if it is found after testing that the prototype needs to be altered before going to production.  And this is where rapid prototyping can offer a number of significant advantages, including:

  • Faster and more cost-effective than constructing a full-scale model
  • Eliminates the cost and time need to develop special molds and tools
  • Minimizes waste; uses only the material needed to build the prototype
  • Can make parts of miniscule size and/or that have complex geometries
  • Provides a realistic three-dimensional design vs a computer screen image
  • Permits the identification of any design flaws prior to any mass production
  • Design changes can be done without the need to modify the entire process
  • Easier testing – properties of the material closely resemble the final product
  • Changes can be made immediately, eliminating the need to wait for feedback

There are several processes that can be used for rapid prototyping; the most common are:

  • Stereolithography (SLA)
  • Selective Laser Sintering (SLS)
  • Fused Deposition Modelling (FDM)
  • Selective Laser Melting (SLM)
  • Laminated Object Manufacturing (LOM)
  • Multi Jet Modelling (MJM)
  • Digital Light Processing (DLP)

Determining which of the above types of procedures to use will be based on such factors as:

  • Production volume
  • Speed of production
  • Financial considerations
  • Geometry of the part/product
  • Intended use of the part/product

However, in order to appropriately align these production-related and cost-related factors to the right process among the various types of rapid prototyping, manufacturers and/or their designers may find it beneficial to consult with the experts from Noble Precision.  The team at Noble Precision has extensive experience in rapid prototyping, from very intricate parts to larger-scale models, and thus can ensure that their outputs from this methodology will meet the specifications, expectations, and business needs of their clients. 

Rapid Prototyping Service to Support Your Product and Parts Development Needs

Prototype development, while an important aspect to determining the ultimate viability of a part or product, may not be a practical option for manufacturers from a cost and operational perspective.  Fortunately, Noble Precision has made a significant investment in state-of-the-art technology, including the latest in CAD/CAM software, to alleviate any such concerns for their clients and allow them to partner with Noble Precision’s team of experts to adequately address these unique, single-unit production needs.

For additional information on the prototyping services provided by Noble Precision, including rapid prototyping solutions for many additive manufacturing applications.

Rapid prototyping is an excellent alternative to the traditional approach of creating full-scale prototypes; it allows the designers and the end-users to validate the dimensions, assembly, and functionality of new part or product without the need for special tools or experienced technical support, with the additional advantages of cost-efficiency and time-efficiency.

Call the experienced specialists at Noble Precision today at 647-499-7569 or contact us to request a complimentary consultation on the advantages offered by our state-of-the-art technology and rapid prototyping service relative to your product/parts development needs.

An In-Depth Look at 5-Axis CNC Machining and Its Advantages

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Cutting-Edge Technology: 5-Axis Simultaneous CNC Machining and Its Advantages

5 Axix CNC MillingWithin the metal machining industry, the processes of metal removal and parts fabrication were once quite laborious; manually-operated equipment and multiple adjustments/set-ups were prevailing aspects in all production runs, resulting in time-consuming jobs and outputs that were less-than-precise on a repeatable basis.

However, there have been significant improvements since those days of manually-operated machinery.  This advancement has resulted from a proliferation of computer-controlled and multiple-axis technologies that have essentially revolutionized the metal machining industry, allowing the manufacture of parts and components that were once considered impractical from the standpoint of size, as well as the time and/or the cost invested in their fabrication.

This technology has evolved to what is known today as 5-axis simultaneous CNC (computer numerical control) machining.  With respect to its applications, this cutting-edge technology involves the use of a CNC machine to move a part or component or a cutting tool along five different axes at the same time; these five axes consist of the traditional variables of three-dimensional space (commonly known as x, y, and z) plus two rotational axes (labelled a and b) which rotate around the x-axis and y-axis respectively.

There are several benefits to be gained from this cutting-edge 5-axis machining technology; the most notable would be the need for just a single set-up for the simultaneous removal of metal (milling and drilling) along those multiple axes.  In turn, this has improved the overall manufacturing/fabrication of metal parts and components in the following ways:

  • Faster cycle times
  • Greater cost efficiency
  • Reduced production times
  • Improved quality/tolerances
  • Faster (reduced) delivery times
  • Use of multiple tools in synchronization

Additionally, these advancements have permitted the machining of very intricate parts with the highest degree of accuracy; consequently, industries in which this degree of complexity is required in their parts manufacturing, will find the application of 5-axis simultaneous CNC machining to be particularly beneficial.

5-Axis Machining Can Provide Practical Solutions to Complex Manufacturing Needs

5-axis Simultaneous CNC MachiningNoble Precision, headquartered in Toronto, Canada, has made a substantial investment in this 5-axis simultaneous CNC machining technology as a commitment to meet and support the precision manufacturing needs of their clients.

Whether those needs are the creation of prototypes, one-time production applications, or high-capacity manufacturing runs, Noble Precision’s team can deliver practical solutions that will satisfy client expectations and specifications with respect to:

  • Cost efficiency
  • Time efficiency
  • High tolerances
  • On-time delivery

Due to its investment in this cutting-edge technology, Noble Precision can accommodate the manufacture of intricate and large-scale prototypes, parts or components, and molds from a variety of metals and metal alloys such as:

  • Steel
  • Brass
  • Titanium
  • Cast Iron
  • Aluminum
  • Stainless Steel

Noble Precision has the knowledge and experience to provide their 5-axis simultaneous CNC machining services for clients who supply or compete in a wide range of industries including but not limited to:

  • Aviation
  • Aerospace
  • Automotive
  • Military Defense
  • Natural Resources
  • Equipment Manufacturing

The team at Noble Precision takes considerable pride in their capabilities to provide practical solutions for their clients’ complex manufacturing needs.  For more information, see our 5-Axis CNC Machining services Page.

Call the 5-axis machining specialists from Noble Precision today at 647-499-7569 or contact us to schedule a no-obligation consultation on your precision manufacturing needs.

The Accuracy and Advantages of 5-Axis Waterjet Cutting

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Blow Molding Requires Precision Molds to Assure the Highest Standards of Quality

Waterjet Cutting ProcessWhen performing some type of do-it-yourself home renovation project, many people have undoubtedly been frustrated by an inability to cut or shape their construction materials with a sufficient degree of accuracy; crown molding that does not meet precisely at a 90O angle, floor tiles that chip while being cut to size, and interlocking brickwork that will not properly interlock are just a few the countless examples that might have immediately come to mind.  Consequently, while those jobs were still completed, they were likely not to the desired level of satisfaction.

Imagine then, the challenges faced by companies in the manufacturing industry, where the need for precision is not only non-negotiable from the perspectives of competitiveness, cost efficiency, and customer satisfaction, but must also be sustained on a repeatable basis; and this becomes further magnified if the parts or products are being made from heat-sensitive or delicate materials and/or entail intricate cuts, angles, or shapes.

This is where waterjet cutting technology can be a particularly beneficial industrial process.

The application of waterjet cutting technology involves the use of a thin, highly-pressurized stream of water to cut parts, shapes, or components with a substantial degree of accuracy.  The pressure of that stream, or waterjet, is created by a specially-designed pump that can achieve levels ranging from 50,000 to 90,000 pounds per square inch (PSI), sufficient to cut thick and/or hard metals/materials; in some cases, an abrasive substance may be added to the waterjet to aid in the cutting process, especially if it is being performed on material that is softer in nature, such as rubber or wood.

Furthermore, unlike various other forms of machining technology, waterjet cutting is carried out in the absence of heat; thus, along with creating cuts and angles with a high degree of exactness or accuracy on a repeatable basis, this process also protects the material against exposure to high temperatures that can adversely affect its physical structure or properties. And for good measure, the waterjet cutting process can be performed while the material is submerged in a tank of water, hence significantly reducing the amount of noise that can be produced by this type of technology.

To summarize, there are several cost efficiencies and other production-related benefits that can be derived from waterjet cutting; these can include:

  • Producing extremely high accuracy rates and high rates of repeatability
  • No need for custom tooling, a practical option for limited production runs
  • The flexibility and capability to cut a single-layer or multi-layered material
  • Edge quality is good, minimizing/eliminating the need for secondary finishing
  • Cutting in the absence of heat protects the cut edges from damage/distortion
  • Operator safety i.e. noise reduction and less airborne dust, smoke, and fumes
  • Effective utilization of resources – water and abrasive material can be recycled

Capitalizing on these efficiencies and benefits for optimal return depends on how effectively the waterjet cutting process is implemented as well as the precision/accuracy of its output; consequently, manufacturers within and outside of the Greater Toronto Area can confidently rely on Noble Precision for their waterjet cutting needs.

5-Axis Waterjet Cutting to Highly-Complex Levels with Several Types of Materials

5-Axis Waterjet CuttingNoble Precision has made a significant investment in state-of-the-art 5-axis waterjet cutting technology, and the latest in associated CAD/CAM software, to provide clients with accurate and clean-edged cutting of complex parts and components from a wide variety of materials. In essence, 5-axis waterjet cutting technology allows more detailed cuts to be made than traditional three-dimensional methods (x, y, and z axes) via a synchronized or simultaneous movement around two rotational axes as well (a and b planes).

As a result, 5-axis waterjet cutting can be used to make cuts, contours, bevels, chamfers, etc. with almost any level of intricacy and to various widths and depths.  While the majority of the above cutting actions are applied to sheet metal, the 5-axis machining capabilities of Noble Precision can provide waterjet cutting for several other types of materials, including:

  • Titanium
  • Aluminum
  • Copper Alloys
  • Steel; Stainless Steel
  • Marble, Granite, Ceramics
  • Plastics, Rubbers, Foam, Composites

For further insight on Noble Precision’s 5-axis waterjet cutting technology and capabilities, please go to our water jet cutting services Page.

For highly-accurate waterjet cutting to satisfy your precise needs and specifications, call the experienced precision manufacturing specialists at Noble Precision at 647-499-7569 today or contact us to request a complimentary discussion.  

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Types of Stamping Dies and Their Uses

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Using the right equipment is a critical aspect of creating effective and efficient metal fabrication assemblies. When you need to transform metal sheets into specific shapes, your production line may rely on stamping dies to do the job. These are precision tools used for cutting and forming sheet metal. They come in a few varieties, and they perform an array of functions. Noble Precision has the means to employ the proper application for the job at hand.   

Metal Stamping Dies Technology

Here are the basic types of dies used for stamping in metal fabrication:

  • Progressive: These are utilized for high-volume production, and they are generally appropriate for high-speed operations. They offer an economical and efficient method of getting parts into production.
  • Transfer: This type is also used for high-volume manufacturing. Transfer dies are ideal when the parts are medium to large in size, as well as round in shape and deep-drawn.
  • Line: Line dies actually come in two types: manually loaded and robotically loaded. They work well for low-volume production, as well as for large parts that cannot be produced efficiently in one press.

Uses for Metal Stamping Dies

Cutting is the most common use for which metal stamping dies are needed. The metal is placed between two sections, and the degree of cutting clearance will depend on the particular operation.

The ways that the tools might be used to cut metal are as follows:   

  • Shearing – The metal is sliced in a straight line. Shearing is ideal for blanks that are square or rectangular in shape.
  • Trimming – Flat sheet metal is cut at its outer perimeter. Pieces might be trimmed to achieve various desired shapes.
  • Notching – Cutting is performed progressively on the exterior section of a metal strip. This serves to create the strip profile necessary for a given project.
  • Lancing – Metal is sliced in order to move it without removing it from the strip. This function is typically applied when producing a certain kind of part carrier, known as a flex or stretch web.
  • Piercing – This technique is also referred to as perforating, and it involves cutting sheet metal to create a hole in it. The metal slug created from the perforation is discarded as scrap.
  • Blanking – Often implemented on a large scale, this cutting process serves two purposes. First, the slug may be retained for further press-working. Blanking may also be performed to cut finished pieces from the sheet metal. When slugs are created during this kind of operation, they are shaped, and they are referred to as blanks. The blanks may subsequently be cut or formed for a different use.

Processes and Technologies Offered by Noble Precision

Regardless of what your manufacturing requirements might be, we are proud to provide you with the right technology to increase your capabilities. Our technicians can assist you in exploring which metal stamping dies might best serve your production process.   

Curious about metal stamping dies technology? Noble Precision can help you find the best solutions. Give us a call at 416-938-6455 or contact us online for more information.

Types of Plastic Blow and Injection Molding

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One of the top strategies for cost-efficiency in manufacturing is to create a usable mold. A quality template should yield many parts or components in the production process. Noble Precision implements a variety of processes to create these template products. Two of the most commonly used techniques are plastic blow molding and injection molding. These practices provide virtually endless solutions for manufacturing companies of various types and sizes.

Putting Injection Molding and Blow Molding Technology to Use

By making use of two highly effective technologies, we can create templates that serve your bottom line. Both of these processes involve different sub-categories. The specific technique used will depend on the kind of end product that a company produces. The primary difference between blow molding and injection molding is that the first is used to produce hollow parts, and the latter is used to create solid components.

These are different kinds of blow molding processes:

  • Extrusion: When this is performed continuously, a hollow tube or partially shaped mass (known as a parison) is fed into the mold and then cut off after formation. When carried out intermittently, each new tube or mass is only inserted after the previous one has been shaped and expelled.
  • Injection: A core rod is utilized to form a parison in the shape of a cylinder. The product is then extruded from the machine.
  • Injection Stretch: To implement this process, both of the above are combined. First, the plastic is pre-formed. Then, it is fed into a machine, reheated, and blown with compressed air into a bottle.   

The following are various types of injection molding techniques:

  • Thermoplastic Injection: Thermoplastic polymer is employed to create an end product. This material may be transformed into a liquid state, whether it is heated or has already cooled.
  • Hot Runner: This requires a manifold, which heats plastic resin that has been melted. This may be done internally or externally.
  • Cold Runner: Plastic resin is injected into a mold cavity via a casting feature (called a sprue). This process can be used to decrease waste, but it may increase production time.
  • Overmolding: Also known as two-shot molding, this involves covering a substance with an injection mold. Typically, the covering substance (overmold) is a compound with a texture similar to rubber.
  • Insert: Multiple components are combined to form a single product. One substance is inserted in the cavity, and then, another substance fills the remainder of the mold to surround the first component. This can lend more strength to the final product, while keeping its weight as low as possible. 

Noble Precision: Providing Effective Manufacturing Solutions

At Noble Precision, we understand the complex needs of the companies we serve. We know that you require solutions that will streamline your processes and maximize efficiency.  Our experienced team can help to determine the best processes for your circumstances. No matter what blow molding technology or injection molding technique we might use, we will ensure that it is the right one for your project. 

Contact us for a no-obligation quote. You can reach a team member at 416-938-6455. Also, please feel free to contact us online. We are always happy to discuss the ways that plastic blow molding and other processes can help your company.

Blow Molding

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Blow Molding Requires Precision Molds to Assure the Highest Standards of Quality

Blow Mold Noble PrecisionIn the most basic of terms, blow molding is a process used in the manufacturing of hollow plastic parts.  This production method is a successor, in a manner of speaking, to the art of glassblowing, and it has permitted the replacement of heavier and/or breakable glass parts with lighter and more durable items or components.

Regardless of the specific parts or items to be produced, the general blow molding process remains consistent throughout.  It begins by melting the plastic and forming it in a parison (or hollow plastic tube) that has a hole in one end to allow compressed air to pass through.  The parison is placed in the mold and pressurized air is applied through the hole to push or force the melted plastic to take the shape of the mold; once that plastic has cooled and hardened, the mold is opened and the part/component is removed or ejected.

There are in fact three main types or variations of the blow molding process; these include:

Extrusion Blow Molding – this is essentially the general process described above, as it is derived directly from glass blowing techniques.  In this case, a metal blow pin is inserted in the opening of the parison and the melted plastic is forced, or extruded, into the mold using compressed air.  This is considered the simplest method of blow molding; it is also time-effective and cost-effective and hence is commonly used for high-volume production runs.  

Injection Blow Molding – in this method, the parison is formed around a core pin using Injection Molding then the injection mold is opened and the parison is transferred to the blow mold for the production of the part/component using the extrusion process.  Because this practice often has a lower production rate, it is the least-used method of blow molding, often reserved for small medical vials and single-serve bottles.

Injection Stretch Blow Molding – in this particular process, the injection molded parison is stretched before it is transferred to the blow mold.  This allows for the production of parts or items that are more rigid, less porous, and have higher transparency and better impact resistance; it is therefore a favoured method for producing bottles/containers for carbonated beverages.

Blow molding is applied in the manufacture of a wide range of products; a sampling of such items would include containers or bottles for:

  • Drinking water
  • Juices and sodas
  • Liquid soaps/detergents
  • Motor vehicle engine fluids
  • Household cleaning supplies
  • Medicinal and cosmetic products

In order to produce such vessels, etc., with the volumes, efficiencies, and quality/tolerances demanded by their customer base, manufacturers will need blow molds (and in some cases injection molds too) that are very precise in their design; it would be unfathomable to think that distributors of drinking water or sodas would accept plastic bottles that are malformed and/or prone to leaks or rupture.

Therefore, manufacturers who employ blow molding within their production methods would be well-advised to consult with the precision mold-making experts from Noble Precision as a means of assuring the highest standards of quality for their specific products/outputs.

Precise Blow Molds to Help Manufacturers Attain the Highest Possible Efficiencies

High-performance 5-axis CNC machining centreNoble Precision has the capacity to design/produce precise blow molds for the production of parts/components in a wide variety of shapes and sizes.  This expertise is reinforced by Noble Precision’s considerable financial investments in state-of-the-art technology, notably the latest in 5-axis simultaneous CNC machines and CAD/CAM software; this commitment allows their clients to benefit from the most advanced and accurate machining methodology.

The Precision Blow Molds produced by the Noble Precision team can help their clients attain the highest possible manufacturing efficiencies, including:

  • Cost savings
  • Time savings
  • High tolerances
  • Waste reduction

For additional information on the Precision Molding services available from Noble Precision, please go to our Mold Making page. 

For precise blow molds to support the high-quality and high-tolerance production of plastic parts or components, call the mold-making specialists at Noble Precision at 647-499-7569 or contact us to schedule a no-obligation consultation.

Importance of Research Skills for Engineering Students

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Importance of Research Skills for Engineering Students

Engineer research is critical to an organization’s productivity and competitiveness. From wireless communications to robotics, biomedical engineering and sustainable energy, it helps fill gaps in knowledge and develop new products while improving organizational efficiency and growth.

Recognizing that research boosts their competitive edge, successful companies invest billions of dollars in R&D efforts. Current and prospective students should, therefore be aware of the importance of research in engineering education as well as throughout their careers. Our R&D team outlines the benefits of engineering research in theory and practice.

3 Reasons to Develop Engineer Research

  1. Improved problem-solving and conceptualization: When tasked with finding a solution to a problem, research helps identify, evaluate and collate all the engineering information you may find. This can be used for breaking down concepts into main ideas and then applying strategies and techniques you may have learned towards creating workable solutions. This is where experience with research during your engineering education makes all the difference. Being able to differentiate between and evaluate all the data improves conceptualization, translating to effective and efficient ideas.
  2. Developing a competitive edge: Research is a crucial component of innovation and key to developing a company’s competitive edge. This is even more vital in today’s economy where customers constantly demand newer and better products. From pharmaceutical and chemical companies to automotive and technology firms, manufacturers are investing billions of dollars to stay ahead of the curve. After all, persistent research is what has helped convert many problems into profitable breakthrough products and technologies. More importantly, it keeps organizations away from risky investments.
  3. Testing and quality assurance: Quality control is essential to building a successful business that delivers products that meet or exceed customers’ expectations. It also forms the basis of an efficient business that minimizes waste and operates at high levels of productivity. On the flip side, lack of research can result in disappointing setbacks caused by dead ends or irreproducible results. Simply put, brand image, loyalty and growth depend on the quality of your product and research.

Solve Complex Precision Manufacturing Challenges with Noble Precision’s Advanced R&D Solutions

Importance of Research Skills for Engineering Students

At Noble Precision, our steadfast commitment to research and development helps us remain on the leading edge of precision manufacturing. This translates to the highest quality products manufactured in a timely and cost-efficient manner. Clients rely on us for practical and achievable solutions to address complex precision manufacturing needs and challenges. We serve a wide spectrum of industries including aviation, aerospace, electronics, automotive, heavy equipment, mining, and transportation.

To determine how research and development by Noble Precision can benefit your firm, contact our team for a no-obligation quote. You can reach a team member at 416-938-6455 or contact us online with your questions about our research and development services.

The Art of Developing a Prototype

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The Art of Developing a Prototype

From intricate components to large complex machines, creating a prototype helps test your idea’s real-world functionality. Doing this will not only proof your concepts but also ensure that your money is well invested. Our rapid prototyping OCAD experts offer a few useful tips on how to efficiently develop your idea and bring it quickly to the market.

Tips for Successful Prototyping

There is no single prototyping method for all types of models. These are general guidelines to proof new ideas, identify and correct problems in the early stage, as well as estimate your production and development costs.

  • Build a few rough models first: The goal of prototyping is to test whether your idea works. This means your initial DIY model does not have to look perfect. Use inexpensive items you can find in your workshop to quickly create a few mock ups. It will save you time and money.
  • Take your concepts to a prototyping company: Once you have a few concepts to work with, consult design-build engineers about troubleshooting and testing your proofs. Choose a reliable Toronto prototyping company that offers fixed costs and some flexibility with making changes during the product development stage. Working with your manufacturer from the design stage can help eliminate or reduce the risk of rework. Pay attention to their technology and machinery. Advanced equipment and proven processes will aid in improving speed, precision and quality.
  • Outsource your R&D: You cannot sacrifice design for functionality or vice-versa. Achieving the right balance of aesthetics and functionality is critical to maintaining a healthy bottom line. Outsourcing your R&D can be cost-effective as you may not have the design and manufacturing expertise in-house (or need to incur the additional staffing cost). Give the prototyping engineers guidelines on which features are important and those that can be eliminated. Some companies offer budgetary forecasts based on different models, which allows you to choose more economical alternatives. Designing for manufacturability can optimize many functions of your product development process, including fabrication, assembly, test, procurement, shipping, delivery, service, and repair.
  • Keep the customer in mind: Meeting your customers’ needs is key. Customer surveys during the R&D phase as well as product testing once your prototype is ready, are instrumental to the success of your product. Remember that if customers do not like it, they will not buy.

Reduce Time to Market with Noble Precision’s Rapid Prototyping Service

The Art of Developing a Prototype

Rapid prototyping solutions at Noble Precision help test your product quickly, and serve to keep your cost down. From conceptualization to precision manufacturing/assembly, and rigorous testing and quality assurance, we are fully committed to ensuring that every prototype meets your exacting specifications. Together with our sophisticated rapid prototyping OCAD, 5-axis simultaneous CNC machine technology, and cooperative engineering support, you can improve your position in the market, and your bottom line. Aviation, aerospace, electronics, automotive, heavy equipment, mining, and transportation manufacturers are just a few of the clients that have taken advantage of our high-quality axis prototypes.

Contact Noble Precision for a no-obligation quote. You can reach a team member at 416-938-6455 or contact us online with your questions about our rapid prototyping services.

Waterjet Cutting: How Can Water Cut Through Steel?

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You might not see a powerful force when you watch a stream of water pour through your faucet, but water under the right amount of pressure can cut through even the hardest materials; including steel.

Waterjet Cutting

Industrial waterjet cutting services, like those offered by Noble Precision, use specialized tools that can cut through machine components using a very high-pressure stream of water. These jets do not just cut metal; they can also pierce through marble, granite, stone, wood, stainless steel, and plastic.

The Technology Behind the Abrasive Water Jet – and Why Waterjets Make Sense

Waterjet cutting is used in precision cutting and drilling projects for cutting through a variety of mediums. What makes them unique is their ability to use high-velocity water, precision work, and remain cost-effective.

Today’s waterjets use sophisticated software and fine garnet abrasives to enable better cutting.

Waterjet cutters and abrasive cutters are two different tools, but both are utilized in industrial applications. Abrasive waterjets are used on harder surfaces, while waterjet cutters are used to cut softer mediums.

The Advantages of Waterjet Cutting

  • No Heat Zones: Instead of a flame, laser cutting, and plasma, waterjet systems produce no heat. Therefore, you can cut through a variety of materials (including delicate ones) without melting, warping, or distorting them.
  • Extreme Precision: Abrasive waterjets have precision tolerances, and the cutting is controlled by a computer using special software. The parts are designed using Computer Aided Design (CAD) and uploaded into the waterjet system to control every move.
  • Multiple Edge Qualities: Cut edge qualities vary with waterjet cutting, and you can select the cut edge based on your project’s specifications. These cut edges determine cutting speeds and project completion, but ensure better material separation.
  • Multiple Materials: Waterjet cut machines can handle almost any flat materials, including cork, steel, reflective materials, acrylic, composites, ceramic, rubber, laminate, brass, bronze, and more.
  • Greener Technology: A waterjet cutter does not create hazardous material or chemical waste. With the right setup, a company can promote recycling, and with a closed-loop system, it does not waste water.
  • Clean Cutting: When you use high-pressure water for cutting, the process does not generate grindings, chips, or excess. It is a dust-free cutting method, and no oils are required to get a clean cut, leaving your product free of debris.
  • Cost-Effective: One of the more significant advantages of waterjet cutting is the cost savings. When you have small batches or a small project, waterjets do not require custom tooling, which makes them more affordable for those short production runs.

Take Advantage of Noble Precision’s 5 Axis Waterjet Cutting

Waterjet for Precision Cutting

Waterjet cutting works for almost industry. Just some of the industries that have taken advantage of our waterjet and abrasive waterjet include aviation, aerospace, electronics, automotive, heavy equipment, mining, and transportation. The large work envelope and 94,000 psi (6,500 bar) pump of our waterjet machine, coupled with a precision 5 axis capability, provides a solution for complex, high quality applications.

To see if waterjet cutting by Noble Precision is right for you, contact our team for a no-obligation quote. You can reach a team member at 416-938-6455 or contact us online with your questions about our industrial waterjet cutting services.