LDS Prototyping

There are several prototype stages between designing a MID component and launching production, for decision making, assembly studies or to generally expedite product
development.

Constructing the Core

Rapid advances in manufacturing methods with additives allow components to be manufactured right from CAD data – without using molds. Stereolithography, laser sintering or FDM (Fused Deposition Molding) are used to layer by layer build the blank from the design data.

Applying an Additive

LPKF has developed a paint with LDS additives which can be activated by laser. After applying and curing the paint the component can be processed just like any conventional LDS component.

Laser Structuring with the LPKF Fusion3D 1000

Within minutes the laser structurer copies the proposed conducting paths to the coated component. A pilot laser helps with aligning the component when various positions are required.

Metallizing the Component

The last step is metallization. LPKF has a solution for prototyping which can also be used for manufacturing small volumes or to determine the optimal laser parameters under standard metallization conditions. A copper layer only takes one metallization step, but even the subsequent processes for nickel and gold are clearly defined.