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Rapid Prototyping and Additive Manufacturing: Towards New Horizons with FDM 3D Printing

Come Cantù Ottone integra la tecnologia Stratasys FDM per accelerare lo sviluppo prodotto e ridurre i tempi di immissione sul mercato

In today’s context, where design cycles are increasingly compressed, rapid prototyping represents a decisive competitive advantage. Cantù Ottone has chosen to complement its traditional machinery with a Stratasys 3D printer using FDM (Fused Deposition Modeling) technology, capable of working with thermoplastic materials such as ABS, PC-ABS, ASA, and PLA. This makes it possible to obtain functional prototypes in just a few hours, testable both in terms of dimensions and mechanical performance.

The added value of this approach lies in the ability to quickly adjust printing parameters—temperature, speed, and layer thickness—and instantly swap filament to optimize strength, lightness, and surface finish. This allows designers and engineers to experiment with different design solutions, validate form and overall dimensions, and prevent potential issues before starting mass production.

Rapid prototyping is not limited to creating individual parts: Cantù Ottone also uses 3D printing to produce jigs, assembly tools, and custom supports, improving the efficiency of subsequent machining. This integrated ecosystem of traditional and additive technologies makes it possible to drastically shorten development times, reducing costs and the risks associated with design errors.

Thanks to this flexible approach, the company can promptly respond to the needs of various sectors—from automotive to furniture, from aerospace to medical—offering a prototyping service that combines speed, precision, and sustainability.