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How SLS 3D Printing Paid Off for Small Biz

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  Selective Laser Sintering (SLS) has a reputation for being out of reach for smaller companies, but that’s changing. While SLS 3D printing was once seen as a tool only available to large manufacturers, it’s now becoming more accessible and practical for small businesses looking to improve how they develop and produce parts. This article highlights how SLS technology works and how it compares with other 3D printing methods. If you’re a small business owner, we’ll also show you how you can benefit from it. What sets SLS apart from other 3D printing methods SLS uses a laser to fuse powdered materials — usually thermoplastics like nylon — into solid parts, layer by layer. It can also be used with composites that include glass particles. Unlike FDM (Fused Deposition Modeling) or SLA (Stereolithography), SLS 3D printing doesn’t require support structures during printing. The unused powder supports the object during the build, so there’s no need for additional material that has...

How 3D Printing Changed the Way We Build

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  Construction has traditionally relied on manual labor and well-established building methods. But that's changing quickly. From design to delivery, 3D printing prototypes are helping builders rethink what’s possible. And in this blog, we’ll explore how 3D printing is influencing the construction process and its advantages in real-world projects. Designs have gone digital. Today’s designers and engineers are developing accurate digital models using software like CAD (computer-aided design) and BIM (building information modeling). Using these tools simplifies testing and fine-tuning building elements before 3D printing prototypes . Designers can adjust size and load performance before preparing the model for printing. With 3D printing, those finalized digital models are sliced into printable layers. Specialized software translates design data—such as layer thickness and material specifications—into instructions that guide the printer’s movement. Instead of handing a blueprin...

Designing Plastic Prototypes: Key Considerations in 2025

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  Choosing the right material is a strong starting point when building a prototype plastic part because it helps ensure that your mold produces consistent, high-quality results. But material alone won’t guarantee success. Several other factors can affect the outcome. Let’s break them down. Manufacturing methods for plastic prototypes Plastic prototyping has become faster and more affordable thanks to newer technologies. 3D printing is one of the most accessible options, letting teams test multiple design versions quickly without driving up costs. CNC machining, by contrast, offers tighter tolerances and uses production-grade plastics, making it a better fit when you need a prototype that closely mirrors the final part. It’s ideal for evaluating fit, function, and durability under real-world conditions. Choosing the right materials Your choice of material can directly impact the mold performance and the quality of the prototype plastic part . When deciding on a resin, it...

China's Precision Machining: Innovations Driving 2025 Manufacturing

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  Precision machining in China has grown into one of the most advanced segments of its manufacturing industry, supporting high-tolerance parts for industries like aerospace and electronics. Let’s dive into how the industry has evolved and the innovations we can expect in 2025. A look at precision machining in China Over the past two decades, China has shifted from labor-heavy, basic production methods to highly advanced, technology-driven manufacturing. This transformation is largely due to significant investment in R&D and the widespread use of automation. Innovations are pushing the industry forward. Growing demand from industries like medical devices and automotive has raised the bar for quality and precision. As manufacturers, we need to deliver components that meet stricter tolerances and perform at higher standards. To meet these expectations, we have invested in advanced technologies that can complement CNC machining, such as multi-axis machines and precision m...

Accelerating Production: The Rise of Rapid Machining in China

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  China has long been recognized as a global manufacturing powerhouse, with CNC (computer numerical control) machining as the major driver behind its success. Here’s how rapid machining in China has grown and why it now plays a central role in global production. A fast-moving technology China’s investment in CNC machining took off in the late 20th century as global demand grew for high-precision, custom-manufactured parts. Recognizing its potential, the country began building infrastructure and training talent to support this technology. A combination of favorable policies and an expanding skilled workforce helped position China as a leader in rapid machining. China’s CNC machining landscape today CNC machining hubs specialize in different sectors across China. In Shenzhen, where HLH Prototypes is based, many CNC services support the electronics industry. However, we also support a wide range of other sectors — from automotive and industrial applications to medical devices...

Sheet Metal Rapid Prototyping vs. Traditional Methods: Which is Better?

  Looking to prototype enclosures, weldments, or other sheet metal parts? Compared to traditional manufacturing, sheet metal rapid prototyping is often the faster and more cost-effective method for prototyping these components. While we provide traditional manufacturing services like CNC machining and direct metal laser sintering, we often suggest sheet metal rapid prototyping for low to mid-volume runs to maximize your savings. Keep reading to understand the advantages of sheet metal rapid prototyping over traditional methods. What is traditional manufacturing? Traditional prototyping uses conventional machining and sometimes includes established methods like injection molding and CNC machining. While these methods are known for their material consistency and accuracy, they can also be time-consuming and expensive for prototyping because they require extensive tooling and labor. The limited design flexibility of these prototype manufacturing methods also make it quite costly t...

How Prototyping Companies Can Accelerate Product Development

  Time is of the essence in the fast-paced landscape of product development, and as a product designer or engineer, you need to transform ideas into prototypes as quickly as possible. If you don't, you risk falling behind and your product becoming outdated. Prototyping companies can help. Prototyping services allow you to iterate designs and get user feedback quickly to minimize risks, and we offer them here at HLH Prototypes. Keep reading to learn how our solutions can support your product's success. Validation and feedback Prototyping allows you to test ideas with tangible products so you can gather feedback from stakeholders and users as early as possible. You can address design flaws before end-use production and ensure that your final product meets the user’s needs. Fast iteration Prototyping companies enable rapid iteration to help you make and test several versions of your part quickly. This approach lets you adjust your design based on user feedback, ensuring y...