Rubber Prototyping

Prototyping with steel tools or alternate materials

For the best results in prototyping, Custom Rubber Corp. believes a steel tool that is close to the finished product is best. Turn-around times for this option depend on the complexity of the part, but generally are no more than two weeks. If your part fits within a 7"x7" square, Custom Rubber Corp. can develop steel prototype tooling to rapidly prototype your part with our C.P.R. system (Custom Rubber Corp. Prototype Response).

Alternatively, Custom Rubber Corp. can provide rapid prototypes from two processes. Both processes require a three-dimensional model which Custom Rubber Corp. can provide for customers.

1. Cast urethane parts from silicone molds. This requires the creation of a hard plastic SLA prototype. The SLA prototype is then used to make a silicone rubber mold. The last step is to cast liquid urethane into the silicone rubber mold. The result is a urethane rubber part that has similar hardness, tensile strength, and elongation to the rubber used in production.
2. Special SLA-like prototyping using unique materials. The most-often recommended material is a low durometer rubber-like material that has limited elongation and tear strength but can give a customer an accurate touch and feel prior to cutting steel. These are sometimes used for trade shows and initial assemblies.

See examples of Custom Rubber Corp. prototyping capablities.