Manufacturing Made Easy

Proto Labs is a technology-driven company committed to being a solution for getting things done quickly and a catalyst for great ideas. We have three distinct manufacturing services that produce custom parts for designers and engineers around the world. Our proprietary software and automated manufacturing processes allow for rapid prototyping and low- to mid-volume production of plastic, metal and liquid silicone rubber parts through quick-turn injection molding, CNC machining and additive manufacturing.

Product developers can upload their 3D CAD model online and receive an interactive quote with free design analysis and real-time pricing information within hours. The manufacturability analysis helps customers eliminate problems, like sink or internal undercuts, during prototyping so modifications can be made early and often. It’s an iterative process that lets designers and engineers avoid product development speed bumps so they can get their product to market as fast as possible.

Additive Manufacturing

Our additive manufacturing service offers three rapid prototyping processes: stereolithography (SL), selective laser sintering (SLS) and direct metal laser sintering (DMLS). Whether small parts with precise geometries or large, highly detailed patterns are needed, additive manufacturing provides another option during early prototyping. Get low quantities of SL, SLS and DMLS prototypes built in as fast as one day.

Stereolithography, selective laser sintering and direct metal laser sintering are available via Proto Labs. Image courtesy of Proto Labs.

CNC Machining

Our CNC machining service can manufacture parts in as fast as the day they were ordered with engineering-grade plastic and metal materials for improved selection, part functionality and cosmetic appearance. We employ both three-axis milling and turning. Our three-axis milling process allows for milling from up to six orthogonal sides of the part to machine as many features as possible. Our turning process includes live tooling to create off-axis holes, flats, slots and grooves. Final milled and turned parts are used as high-quality prototypes, jigs, fixtures, one-offs and in end-use applications.

In addition to three types of additive manufacturing, Proto Labs also offers CNC machining and injection molding services. Image courtesy of Proto Labs.

Injection Molding

For customers who need low-volume production or bridge tooling, our injection molding service can mold 25 to 10,000+ parts from hundreds of thermoplastic, liquid silicone rubber and stainless steel materials, in three weeks or less. We machine our molds in a fraction of the time and cost in comparison to traditional mold manufacturers to produce custom parts across all industries.

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• Proto Labs