I'd like to take a shot at this and inject some additional value on the
subject of Rapid Tooling...
3D Keltool is a proven technology that has produced millions of parts and
thousands of tools over the years. It is perhaps the best-kept secret in the
tooling industry. The process expeditiously creates A6 steel production tool
inserts that can be hardened to nearly 50 Rc and routinely provide
1,000,000-plus shots (fewer if "abrasive materials" are used).
Accuracy is +/-.2% and insert size can be up to 144 cubic inches (and more
than one insert can be combined to mold larger parts). 3D Keltool is rapid
tooling without compromise - inserts are available 8 - 10 calendar days (not
weeks) after stereolithography master tooling patterns are created. While not
for every application, 3D Keltool is ideal for complex tooling geometries.
There are other rapid methods of producing tooling but none that I know of
that consistently deliver production tooling that is as accurate, durable,
reworkable, and machineable with as remarkable a tool life and delivery as 3D
Keltool.
Besides providing inserts, 3D Keltool is also licensing the technology which
offers companies the opportunity to dramatically increase their productivity
from their existing staff of toolmakers. 3D Keltool can be reached at
805-257-4800; 805-257-5800 (fax), and at: 3dkeltool@3dsystems.com
In a message dated 98-06-29 11:50:33 EDT, jthiell@ix.netcom.com writes:
> Hello John and RP-ml,
>
> We have a rapid tooling method for High Productivity Production Tools
called
> ExpressTool. This tooling method uses a patent-applied-for electroforming
> process which allows the tool to have Conformal Cooling water lines. This
> leads directly to molding cycle time reduction (on the average of 20-30%),
> more dimensionally accurate parts out of the tool (less residual stress
from
> hot spots), and ultimately more productivity and lower costs. Also, these
> tools can typically be delivered in 8 weeks, or less, based on part
> complexity. For more information on ExpressTool (process and the company)
-
> contact me directly (at the number below), check out the June issue of
> Modern Plastics, or look us up on the web at: www.infinite-group.com and
> follow the links for ExpressTool.
>
> I look forward to talking to you all very soon.
>
> Cheers
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