We have much experience with hardware prototyping of plastic parts, metal parts and electronic parts. Electro-mechanical prototypes typically require software prototyping, which we also have much experience with.
We are confident we can deliver rapid prototyping solutions for you. The following sections outline some key phases.
Our core business is focused on projects that have a break-even point, such as resale via mass production. To learn more about this see our page on Seaham New Product Development.
Product Design Phase (Computer modeling from scratch or 3D scanning)
During this phase we assess your requirements to determine if we are best to design your model from scratch using 3D CAD tools, 3D animations tools, or perform a 3D scan an mock up model.
While 3D scanning sounds like an easy option, it is not perfect, and requires much cleaning up of the model. Further it produces a file with point cloud data, which then must be converted to a typical CAD file (e.g. .igs, .stp, and/or .stl). It is because of these reasons, it is generally quicker to create the design from scratch (unless the target requirement is just to reprint the scanned object without any additional design features - which is a service we're not keen on providing).
In terms of electronics - generally we design custom electronics to get the unit cost down, but in some cases we might use off-the-shelve electronics (e.g. Proof-of-concept prototype).
Product Prototyping Phase
Plastic mechanical parts will likely be 3D printed via various methods such as Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM), Stereolithography (SLA), Selective Laser Sintering (SLS), Multi Jet Fusion (MJF) or CNC'ed in some cases. The material options are kinda endless from rigid to rubbers, such as ABS, PLA, Polycarbonate (PC), Acrylic (PMMA), PET, PEEK, Polyamide aka Nylon (PA), Glass reinforced nylon (PA66+GF), Polyurethane (PU), Polypropylene (PP), Polyvinyl Chloride (PCV), Thermoplastic Elastomer (TPE), Thermoplastic Olefin (TPO), Thermoplastic Polyurethane (TPU), PEBA 2301, Nitrile Rubber (NBR), Polytetrafluoroethylene aka Teflon (PTFE) and more. There are also various finish options such as transparent, transulent, colours, electro-plating, reflective mirror, and screen-printing graphics.
Metal mechanical parts can be 3D printed also, however in our opinion CNC is still the better option. The material options are also kinda endless such as aluminum (AL), steel, stainless steel (SS), brass, etc. There are also various finish options such as blackening, electro-plating (Chrome-plating, Nickel-chrome plating, Zinc-plating, Galvanizing), anodized (black, matte clear), and chromating conversion.
We've also made prototypes using materials such as Carbon Fiber, Fibreglass, Glass wool, DuPont, Vectran, conductive thread, and look forward to playing with Graphene one day.
Electronic parts will involve manufacturing of bare PCBs, then assembling PCB surface-mount (SMT) and through-hole (THT) components via soldering methods such as a stencils, reflow oven, IR heat lamp, hotair rework station, soldering iron, etc.
Hardware bugs are likely, and we'd hack things to make the working prototype. During this process we'll make notes on the design changes required for the next revision.
Engineering Excellence for Seaham Businesses
Located in the heart of Seaham, New South Wales, Australia, COLETEK is a multidisciplinary Australian engineering and product development company established in 2001. Our team has been proudly serving businesses across Seaham, New South Wales, Australia, providing innovative solutions that drive growth and success.
As a trusted national player, we've established ourselves as leaders in our field by focusing on what matters most – delivering reliable results through collaboration. Our expertise spans industries and sectors, allowing us to bring unique perspectives and fresh ideas to the table.
We're passionate about helping local businesses thrive in Seaham, New South Wales, Australia. Whether you're a manufacturer, a service provider, or an entrepreneur with a vision, we'll work closely with you to understand your challenges and objectives.
Our team is constantly pushing boundaries, investigating new technologies, and refining our engineering expertise to tackle complex problems. This relentless pursuit of innovation allows us to stay at the forefront of industry developments, ensuring that our clients receive the most effective solutions available.
In a rapidly changing world, it's essential for businesses in Seaham, New South Wales, Australia to have a trusted partner by their side. At COLETEK, we take pride in our reputation as a reliable and capable companion for companies seeking growth and transformation.
As you look to the future, consider partnering with an engineering company that shares your commitment to innovation and collaboration. With our base of operations in Seaham, New South Wales, Australia, we're well-positioned to support local businesses throughout the region and beyond.
So why wait? Let's work together to bring your ideas to life. We're excited to explore how our capabilities can benefit your organization, ensuring that you remain ahead of the curve in today's fast-paced business environment.
