Komaru Technologies offers 3-Dimensional ABS plastic part fabrication that delivers completely useable plastic engineering prototype parts.

The Komaru Technologies can now deliver manufacturers and developers USEABLE ABS prototype parts to quickly and accurately verify their technologies and test ideas, all from the customer’s own 3D CAD drawings. Komaru utilizes Stratasys Dimension SST 3D printers to create custom parts that are completely useable in real-performance prototypes and field tests.

How does Komaru fabricate its quick turnaround plastic prototypes?

The ABS parts are “built” from the bottom up, one layer at a time, using durable Acrylnitrile Butadene Styrene (ABS) plastic using a process known as FDM (Fused Deposition Modeling). The ABS plastic is fed into an extrusion head, heated to a semi-liquid state, and accurately deposited in layers as fine as 0.010 inches (0.254 mm) thick. Features are supported during construction with a soluble support material. The resulting plastic engineering prototype parts are both durable and attractive.

How strong is ABS plastic?

Unlike appearance or demonstration prototypes produced using weaker or more brittle materials, Komaru parts are created using ABS and are completely useable for functional and field tests. The strength and durability of FDM parts depend on the shape and build orientation of the part being produced. Komaru Technologies delivers plastic prototype parts that are both durable and attractive. Plastic engineering prototype parts fabricated using the FDM process are generally 80% as strong as the equivalent molded ABS part, but without the cost of creating a mold. ABS is the most commonly used plastic in electronic manufacturing services today. Cell phones, television sets, and the majority of car interior parts are made of ABS or similar blends. ABS allows the building of durable and functional prototypes that can withstand rigorous testing without warping, shrinking or absorbing moisture. ABS prototypes can be drilled, tapped, sanded, and painted.

What colors are available?

ABS plastic comes in a variety of standard colors, including Black, White, Grey, Red, Blue, Green, and Yellow. Custom colors can be created at additional cost and lead time.

To what tolerance are parts built?

Part tolerances are generally 0.010”. Build orientation and certain features may reduce accuracy. Komaru’s engineers will work with you to achieve the best possible plastic rapid prototyping result.

What CAD file formats does Komaru accept?

Stereolithography (.stl) files are the easiest to implement, but many other file types are useable. Contact us to discuss your specific requirements.