You design it, we'll make it.
Prototype Manufacturing: From Design to Testing
Prototype manufacturing is the process of producing a preliminary model or sample of a product to test its functionality, design, and other features before mass production. It involves creating a physical model of the product based on the design specifications and requirements.
For many industries, a functional prototype or a presentation mockup is essential to test honest reactions from their potential customers. Hemtom’s services are available for nearly anything that needs to be designed and tested.
Hemtom offers mockups for mobile phone, tablet computer, laptop, headphone, VR glasses, SLR camera, robots, wearable device, drones, watch, communication apparatus, home appliance, automobile, medical device, film props, interior decoration, and many other kinds.
View Hemtom's Capabilities
What Types of Prototypes Can We Make
You design it, we’ll make it. We specialize in machining various industrial parts and prototypes, .If classified by material, Hemtom can make metal prototypes, plastic prototypes, rubber prototypes, solid wood prototypes, marble prototypes, glass prototypes, etc.
Metal Prototype
Plastic Prototype
Rubber Prototype
Wood Prototype
Marble Prototype
Glass Prototype
Also Appearance and Structural Prototype
Need a prototype? Contact Hemtom now for a free evaluation!
Email: business@hemtom.com
Excellent Surface Treatment
Our Functional Prototyping Technology
CNC machining provides an ideal way to manufacture functional prototypes. It offers a wide choice of metal materials, providing the correct material properties for “functional prototypes”, as well as precise dimensional tolerances and surface finishes. Professional surface treatment gives the final product a first-class aesthetic and texture.
A method based on digital model files that uses powdered metal or plastic and other bonding materials to build a model by printing it layer by layer. Widely used in automotive, jewelry, footwear, industrial design, medical industry and other fields.
Typically used for market testing, clinical trials, pre-production evaluations and small batch production. It is a vacuum mold that is formed by using heated plastic sheets, so there is no need to invest in metal molds, and the delivery time can be completed quickly.
Silicone molding is a prototyping process that uses uncured silicone rubber to shape the final product. Types include injection, compression and extrusion. It will be very costly to use CNC machining for small batches of prototype molds, and the silicone compound mode can reduce the cost, which ultimately depends on the details of your product.
This rapid and cost-effective plastic forming method not only produces hundreds of near-end product functional test prototypes, but also produces end-use parts on demand. Widely used in automotive, aerospace and industrial processes.
Prototyping Services Tailored To Your Needs
Hemtom provides leading prototyping services to tens of millions of start-ups, small manufacturers, home inventors. We have the prototyping process required for quality products worldwide. We guarantee a perfect fit with the appearance of your product, demonstrate the feasibility of the product through human-computer interaction before production, and help you succeed in all aspects and speed up the time to market.
For hardware startups
Whether you're an early-stage startup or ready to scale up, Hemtom is your best prototyping partner. In the continuous product development and iteration, we can match your product route and transform your ideas into product design.
for small manufacturers
We are a prototype manufacturing service company tailored for small product companies. Whether it is a new product design or an existing product upgrade, Hemtom can provide leading prototyping services. We quickly capture the aesthetics of our client's ideas, revealing the actual colours, materials and finishes you want to achieve in your final product.
For all home inventors
With the experience in prototyping of tens of millions of family inventions, the feasibility of the product can be demonstrated through human-computer interaction before the design begins, and comprehensive support services, rapid prototyping can help your product achieve great success. Get connected instantly with some of the best product selling brands in the world.
Why Customers Trust Hemtom
Confidentiality agreement and full process confidentiality
We abide by the principle of customer first and keep all projects confidential. All our communication facilities are equipped with an information security management system, you can safely upload your drawings, and employees can be assured of cooperation with us through confidentiality training before entering the job. We are happy to sign NDA or NNN if necessary.
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FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
What is plastic prototype manufacturing?
Plastic prototype manufacturing is the process of creating initial product models using various plastics through different manufacturing methods. At Hemtom, we specialize in transforming your design concepts into tangible plastic prototypes for testing, validation, and market evaluation before mass production.
What methods are used for plastic prototype manufacturing?
At Hemtom, we employ multiple methods for plastic prototype manufacturing including 3D printing (SLA, SLS, FDM), CNC machining, vacuum casting, rapid tooling injection molding, and silicone molding. We select the most appropriate method based on your specific requirements, timeline, and budget constraints.
How much does plastic prototype manufacturing cost?
The cost of plastic prototype manufacturing varies depending on several factors including complexity, size, material choice, manufacturing method, quantity, and finishing requirements. Hemtom offers competitive pricing starting from $100 for simple 3D printed prototypes to $3,000+ for complex functional prototypes with premium finishes. Contact us for a detailed quote tailored to your project.
How long does it take to manufacture a plastic prototype?
Typical turnaround times for plastic prototype manufacturing at Hemtom range from 3-5 days for simple 3D printed parts to 2-3 weeks for complex prototypes requiring multiple processes and finishing treatments. Rush services are available for urgent projects, potentially reducing lead times by 30-50%.
What are the best materials for plastic prototypes?
The best materials for plastic prototypes depend on your specific application requirements. Hemtom works with a wide range of engineering plastics including ABS, PC, PMMA (acrylic), Nylon (PA), POM, PP, PEEK, and various modified plastics. Each material offers different properties regarding strength, flexibility, temperature resistance, and surface finish quality.
What is the difference between 3D printing and injection molding for prototyping?
3D printing builds plastic prototypes layer by layer directly from digital files, offering quick turnaround and design freedom without tooling costs, making it ideal for single or low-quantity prototypes. Injection molding requires initial tooling investment but provides prototypes with properties nearly identical to mass-produced parts, better surface finish, and becomes more cost-effective for higher quantities. Hemtom offers both services to meet different project needs.
Can plastic prototypes be used for functional testing?
Yes, Hemtom specializes in creating functional plastic prototypes that not only look like the final product but can also be used for performance testing. Depending on the manufacturing method and material selection, our prototypes can withstand mechanical stress, thermal testing, and assembly verification to validate design functionality before mass production.
What is the minimum order quantity for plastic prototypes?
Hemtom has no strict minimum order requirement for plastic prototypes. We accommodate orders ranging from single unit prototypes to small batch productions of several hundred units. Our flexible manufacturing capabilities allow us to serve both individual inventors and established companies with varied quantity needs.
How accurate are plastic prototypes compared to final products?
Hemtom’s plastic prototypes can achieve high accuracy with tolerances as tight as ±0.05mm for CNC machined parts and ±0.1mm for most 3D printed components. Our advanced manufacturing equipment and quality control procedures ensure that prototypes closely match design specifications and can accurately represent final production parts.
Can plastic prototypes have different surface finishes?
Yes, Hemtom offers comprehensive surface finishing services for plastic prototypes including painting, texturing, polishing, sandblasting, pad printing, silk screening, chrome plating, and more. These finishes can simulate the appearance and feel of mass-produced products, allowing for realistic market testing and presentation.
How do I prepare CAD files for plastic prototype manufacturing?
For optimal results in plastic prototype manufacturing, provide 3D CAD files in formats such as STEP, IGES or STP. Include clear dimensional tolerances, surface finish requirements, and material specifications. Hemtom’s engineering team can review your files and provide feedback to ensure manufacturability and reduce potential issues.
Can plastic prototypes be painted or colored?
Absolutely. Hemtom provides extensive coloring services for plastic prototypes including custom color matching to Pantone specifications, multi-color painting, metallic finishes, and special effects. Our professional finishing department ensures uniform coverage and durability, allowing your prototype to accurately represent the final product’s aesthetic.
Is it possible to create multi-material plastic prototypes?
Yes, Hemtom can create multi-material plastic prototypes through various methods. We can combine different components made from distinct materials, utilize overmolding techniques, or employ advanced 3D printing technologies that support multiple materials in a single build. This capability is particularly valuable for prototypes requiring both rigid and flexible elements.
What industries commonly use plastic prototype manufacturing?
Plastic prototype manufacturing is utilized across numerous industries including consumer electronics, medical devices, automotive, aerospace, consumer products, and industrial equipment. Hemtom has experience serving clients from diverse sectors, adapting our prototyping approaches to meet industry-specific requirements and compliance standards.
How does plastic prototype manufacturing support the product development process?
Plastic prototype manufacturing is a crucial component of effective product development, allowing for design validation, functional testing, ergonomic assessment, and market feedback before investing in mass production tooling. Hemtom’s rapid prototyping services help companies reduce development risks, optimize designs, accelerate time-to-market, and ultimately create more successful products.