In the world of industrial production, quality control is a guarantee: a repeatable mold, fixed parameters, consistent materials. But when it comes to 3D printing applied to production—as in the case of cores and molds intended for foundry—every single element of the additive process must be monitored, measured, and validated.
In our new video, we show the behind-the-scenes of the laboratory tests we conduct for each 3D production. It’s invisible work, but essential to ensure that the printed parts meet the precision and performance standards required by the industry.
Why Qualification Tests are Needed in Industrial 3d Printing
Unlike traditional molding technologies, where hardware ensures shape and repeatability, 3D printing operates on more variable parameters: porous or compressible materials, free geometries, temperatures not always perfectly uniform. For this reason, each print batch requires a targeted validation system through a grid of technical tests.
The video shows how, during the printing of cores for foundry, specific test samples are integrated for laboratory testing. These tests are used to verify if the pieces fall within the allowed tolerances before authorizing their use or casting.
The Tests We Perform on each 3d Print Batch
Our qualification protocol includes a mix of dimensional, mechanical, and chemical-physical tests, including:
- Dimensional control X, Y, Z compared to the original CAD file
- Verification of theoretical weight to assess material density and cohesion
- Dynamometer tests to define mechanical resistance to breakage
- Total calcination tests to analyze the amount of resins present in the artifact
- 3D scanning for advanced geometric validation through file vs object comparison
All these tests require about 2.5 hours of work by a specialized technician, in addition to curing and post-processing times, for a total of 24-48 hours from print output.
Continuous Quality Control
Our approach does not stop at certifying the final piece, but keeps the entire process under observation. Any deviation from one of the acceptable parameters entails corrective actions, often complex, requiring iterative interventions.
Just as a cyclist makes continuous micro-movements to stay balanced, keeping a 3D printing machine aligned with specifications requires continuous data collection and constant calibration.
Industrial Reliability for Next-Generation Castings
This control system allows Prototypes to offer reliable additive solutions even for production, not just for prototyping. Our 3D printed cores can be used directly in foundry processes only after passing a complete quality verification process.
This makes them ideal for:
- Foundries that want to avoid waste and rework
- Productions with complex geometries requiring high standards
- Innovative projects with stringent control requirements
3D printing is not just about shape, but also about continuous technical control. At Prototypes, we have developed a rigorous system of tests and validations to ensure that every part produced meets the standards required by industrial production.
Watch our video to discover how our internal quality control laboratory works, and why every 3D print we make is much more than just a “file copy.”