Design and Prototyping
Salco specializes in complex design work and prototyping for all types of projects, with the ability to quickly build physical samples for customer approval. Salco uses SolidWorks software for design and a Stratasys Fortus 450mc for 3D printing. We have the ability to print in high temp ULTEM material, which is ideal for quick turnaround tooling. Our many years of experience promises craftsmanship and care for all of our projects.
Maximum Part Size
The Stratasys 450mc 3D printer has a maximum build area of 16 x 14 x 16 inches (406 x 356 x 406 mm). Larger parts can be printed in multiple pieces and assembled.
Material Options
Salco’s 3D printer can print in a variety of materials including ULTEM 1010, Nylon 12, and ASA.
- ULTEM 1010: A high-performance polyetherimide (PEI) thermoplastic. The high heat resistance makes ULTEM a perfect material for making welding jigs and fixtures.
- Nylon 12: The strength, toughness, and excellent fatigue properties of Nylon 12 make it a perfect fit for applications involving snap-fit closures, tools with press-fit inserts, and vibration-resistant parts.
- ASA: Acrylonitrile Styrene Acrylate is the perfect all-purpose 3D printing thermoplastic, suitable for many different applications. It has a similar chemical makeup to ABS plastic but offers three improvements: better mechanical properties, superior aesthetics and it’s UV resistant. ASA material also comes in 10 colors, more than any other FDM material.
Ready for a Quote?
Salco can quote projects of all shapes and sizes. If you have questions about our services, please click here to contact us. Someone from our team will be happy to assist you.
From Concept to Precision Manufacturing
At Salco Engineering & Manufacturing, the design and prototyping phase is where innovative ideas become fully realized industrial solutions. Our engineers combine decades of fabrication expertise with advanced 3D modeling and rapid prototyping technology to ensure that every project we build is precise, functional, and production-ready.
We work closely with clients across a wide range of industries to understand the unique requirements of each application. Whether it involves developing a new wire basket, optimizing a material handling cart, or engineering a custom rack system, our design and prototyping process helps reduce risk, improve efficiency, and deliver exceptional results before full production begins.
Collaborative Design and Prototyping Process
Salco’s approach to product development emphasizes communication, precision, and efficiency. By using advanced tools like SolidWorks and the Fortus 450mc 3D Printer, our team can design and test components quickly, identify improvements early, and accelerate your path from concept to completion.
Understanding Your Application
Each project begins with a detailed consultation. We learn about your product requirements, space constraints, operating conditions, and performance goals. This allows our engineers to create designs that fit seamlessly within your existing processes while supporting your long-term production needs.
3D Modeling and CAD Development
Once the concept is defined, our engineers use SolidWorks software to create detailed 3D models and assemblies. These digital renderings visualize the final product and allow for real-time collaboration, refinement, and validation. By identifying design adjustments early, we help reduce costly changes later in the manufacturing phase.
Rapid Prototyping and Testing
After design approval, Salco produces a working prototype using our Fortus 450mc 3D Printer or through traditional fabrication methods. These prototypes allow for hands-on testing to evaluate form, fit, and function. For metal-based designs, we can fabricate prototypes using our in-house wire forming, welding, and CNC bending capabilities to replicate true industrial performance.
Evaluation and Design Refinement
Each prototype is tested under real-world conditions to ensure it meets all performance, durability, and safety requirements. Our engineers collaborate with your team to review test results and make any necessary adjustments. This process ensures your final product is optimized for manufacturability, reliability, and long-term use.
Benefits of Salco’s Design and Prototyping Services
Partnering with Salco Engineering for design and prototyping provides significant advantages across development speed, product accuracy, and cost control. By leveraging advanced technology and industry expertise, we help clients streamline every stage of production.
- Accelerated development timelines through rapid 3D prototyping
- Reduced production errors and material waste
- Improved part precision and assembly accuracy
- Expert engineering feedback for design and process optimization
- Seamless transition from prototype to full-scale fabrication
Applications Across Industries
Salco’s design and prototyping capabilities serve a wide range of sectors, including automotive manufacturing, aerospace production, food processing, medical device assembly, and heavy equipment fabrication. Our engineering team understands that every industry faces unique challenges, from contamination control to ergonomic handling, and we design prototypes that meet those specific requirements with precision.
Integrating Design with Custom Fabrication
The design and prototyping process at Salco integrates directly with our in-house fabrication capabilities. Once a design is finalized, our fabrication team transitions the project into production without delays or quality loss. This end-to-end control ensures consistency and accuracy throughout the entire manufacturing process.
Advanced Technology for Precision Prototyping
Salco utilizes the latest design and fabrication technology to ensure every prototype meets the highest standards of performance and accuracy. Our capabilities include SolidWorks CAD modeling, stress analysis, 3D printing, precision cutting and forming, and MIG and TIG welding techniques. These tools allow us to design and test products that not only meet specifications but are optimized for long-term functionality and manufacturing efficiency.
Why Choose Salco Engineering & Manufacturing
When you work with Salco, you gain a partner that brings decades of design, engineering, and fabrication experience to every project. Our design and prototyping process ensures that each product is developed with attention to performance, cost-efficiency, and ease of production. From initial sketches to final production approval, our collaborative approach gives you complete confidence in your end product.
Contact Salco Engineering & Manufacturing today to discuss your next project or request a consultation. Our team is ready to design, prototype, and manufacture a custom solution that helps your business improve efficiency, safety, and productivity.
