Bridging the gap between digital model and physical object — fast, iterative, and fit-for-purpose.
The fastest way to learn if a design works is to hold it in your hands. Rapid prototyping compresses the design-test-iterate cycle from weeks to hours — and the ability to pick the right process for the right job is as important as knowing how to run the machines.
My go-to for functional prototypes. FDM is fast, cheap, and produces parts strong enough to actually test under load. I use it for jigs, fixtures, housings, snap-fit assemblies, and anything where you need to check fit and function before committing to a machined part.
Materials: PLA for fast iteration, PETG when I need better chemical or temperature resistance, TPU for flexible parts. I'm comfortable dialing in supports, layer orientation, infill, and wall count for specific mechanical requirements.
SLA is where you go when FDM surface quality isn't enough. Resin prints at much finer resolution — I use it for small precision components, tight-tolerance snap fits, and anything that needs a smooth surface for form evaluation or customer presentation.
Post-processing matters: wash/cure cycle, support removal, surface finishing. Engineering resins can get close to injection-molded ABS in stiffness and temperature resistance.
"Knowing which process to use is the real skill — FDM for speed and function, SLA for detail and finish, machining when tolerances or materials demand it."