PRM Creates Hollow Parts

Met-L-Flo Inc., a rapid prototyping and direct manufacturing service bureau using stereolithography (SLA), selective laser sintering (SLS) and fused deposition modeling (FDM), has added prototype rotational molding (PRM) to create seamless, hollow prototypes designed to replicate blow-molded and production rotational-molded parts. The process can be used to test fit and function, as well as durability and consumer acceptance before production tooling begins, reducing development costs and time.

The PRM process can simulate a variety of materials, including polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and PETG, high-density polyethylene (HDPE), polypropylene (PP), acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), and polycarbonate. Applications include food and beverage containers, consumer product bottles, automotive ductwork, hoses and reservoirs, storage containers, fuel and solvent tanks, floats, and marine products.