Model making frequently asked questions

Your model making frequently asked questions answered

Professional model making is a world apart from the Airfix kits and Hornby railways of your childhood (or adulthood). When it comes to professional model making for prototyping, customers are often astounded at what our skilled team achieves – our models can be indistinguishable from mass-produced items. If you are not familiar with our model making capabilities, here are some of the questions we are often asked, together with answers to give you a better understanding.

3D printing is so good today, why do I need model making?

3D printing is superb for producing individual components and, with five different 3D printing technologies in-house, we can meet almost any requirements. However, when complex or large prototypes are required, we often use 3D printing alongside other technologies. It depends very much on the prototype in question, but we might use a combination of 3D printing, CNC machining, vacuum casting, laser cutting and traditional hand-fabrication of parts from a variety of materials. Sometimes we will adapt existing components if that is a better option than fabricating from scratch. And with a wide array of finishing options at our disposal, we can ensure models have exactly the right aesthetic.

The key point about model making is that it is a fusion of skills, techniques and technologies. Furthermore, the experience of the model making team is very important, as it enables us to overcome challenges quickly and efficiently, rather than trying different approaches until we find one that works. If required, our model makers can act as consultants to help customers achieve their goals as quickly and cost-effectively as possible.

What are the differences between design verification models and advanced prototype models?

Design verification models are typically produced early in a project to check the look and feel of a concept. We call these ‘reality check’ models. They are not suitable for testing characteristics such as strength or durability but they can play a vital role in steering a design’s development in the early stages of a project. Consequently, they help to avoid problems that would be costly to rectify later.
Advanced prototype models are generally for functional testing and pre-manufacture production verification. They are valuable for analysing a product’s physical and behavioural characteristics prior to freezing the design and committing to tooling.

Between design verification and advanced prototype models, we offer presentation models. These have the same look and feel as the finished product but might not possess the same functionality. Presentation models are typically produced for presenting to clients or backers, and for use at trade shows, for sales promotion, marketing evaluation and market research. Depending on the amount and type of handling anticipated, we can make presentation models that are relatively robust.

The fourth type of model we build is architectural models. These are scale models of buildings, structural engineering projects, large constructions, vehicles and engineering projects. They can be extremely useful for presentational and visualisation purposes.

What materials do you use for model making?

Anything and everything! Before commencing a model making project, we discuss it with the customer to understand the model’s purpose. We can then determine the optimum materials, manufacturing technologies and finishing techniques. In most cases we make extensive use of plastics – even if they have finishes applied to make them look metallic – but sometimes we use metals if it is necessary for the model’s function. Our in-house vacuum casting facility allows us to create parts with ‘soft grip’ overmoulding, and we can also produce clear or opaque parts. Finally, we can mimic most injection moulded surfaces.

What finishing options are available?

Finishes are specified to suit the model’s needs, whether aesthetic, functional or both. Of course, the finishes also must be suitable for applying to the materials used. We have in-house SLS dyeing, bead blasting, manual polishing, lacquering and wet painting facilities. Our network of trusted suppliers enables us to subcontract almost any specialist finishes. These might include electroplating, anodising, powder coating, blackout/RFI/EMC coatings, vacuum metallisation and electropolishing. For absolute realism, we can also apply text, logos and other graphics.

I don’t need a prototype, but can you make me a model of something else?

Most models we produce are for design verification, presentation or advanced prototyping. However, we can build almost any model. A scale model to display in your boardroom, showroom or foyer? A retirement gift for a valued employee? Movie props?

As well as making models that are visually identical to real products, we can also build models for illustrative purposes. Let your imagination run wild! We can incorporate colour-changing LEDs to provide dynamic indications of pressure, temperature, pollution levels or other parameters. How about a cutaway model to show a mechanism’s operation? Large-scale models of small devices for presentations? A water-clear model of a component, product or casing? A model of something eye-catching for use in marketing photography? Tell us about your ideas and we can turn them into reality.

I need the model for a series of exhibitions, so can you also provide a bespoke display case and transit case?

We can provide whatever protection you need for your model when it is being displayed or transported. Bases, plinths and clear display cases are all options. For small models, we might supply a shadow foam case for transport. For larger models or those that need to be shipped, we can provide fitted flight cases for the ultimate in protection. Whatever your requirements, we can provide the necessary means of display and transportation.

How long will it take to build a model?

Small, simple models can be turned around quickly but large, complex models take longer. No, that doesn’t answer the question but talk to us about your project and we can quickly give you an idea of the likely timescales. Only once we have been briefed can we quote a price and lead time. Unlike for 3D printing and CNC machining, we do not offer an Express model making service.

Talk to us

Do you need model making services or want to ask if something is possible? (Hint: we seldom say ‘no’.) Talk to us on 01763 249760.