TriMech Blog

FDM parts are probably the most popular type of 3D printed parts. The FDM (fused deposition modeling) process is “melting” a solid thermoplastic filament, like a hot glue gun. If you plan on testing your parts in a strenuous process, FDM may be the best choice. These materials specialize in high tensile strength and resistance to high temperatures.

Color for FDM parts are available in a relatively wide range of colors in the most common materials like ABS and ASA. And if you can't get the exact color directly from the filament you're using, there are a variety of other methods you can use. 

You're on a roll, focused and in the zone and then you click on an icon and nothing happens. So you sit and wait, and wait until finally, the dialog box pops on screen. But just like that, you lost your groove. We have good news for you... there is a way to end this stop and go waiting game in SOLIDWORKS PDM and we're going to share it with you!

Sometimes switching software can seem daunting. With the right path and the right state of mind, making the change is definitely achievable. Switching between two 3D CAD programs isn’t nearly as hard as switching from 2D to 3D, and we’ve made that leap already! 

If your CAD designs are going to be stamped in the long run, you need Altair Inspire Form. Discover how your physical designs can deal with force before production, and avoid a broken or wrongly dented physical prototype.

Stratasys has released new 3D printing materials that bring even more power to your creativity. These new PolyJet materials allow you to prototype in such a way that others will ask "Is this the final product?". New materials include Agilus30™ White, VeroFlexVivid™ and VeroCyanV™. It is no surprise that the J735 and J750 continues to evolve with every update.

SOLIDWORKS 2019 includes a new ability for extended reality. Extended reality is an export from SOLIDWORKS 3D CAD Standard, Professional and Premium. It provides a much richer experience to view designs that are typically consumed on a flat monitor or image. With the new export option, users are immersed in a virtual environment via virtual reality headsets. The benefit is seeing an interaction between your product and the environment in such a way that was not possible until now. It is currently not available in Service Pack 0 (SP0) but will be included in future service packs.

For years, you’ve been languishing in the darkness of 2D CAD. That black background felt so familiar, but now you’re starting to see the 3D light. It can be difficult for your eyes and mind to adjust but have no fear, I’m here to guide you on your new journey into SOLIDWORKS 3D CAD.

The 17-4PH stainless steel material is characterized by its combination of strength, hardness, and corrosion resistance. It is ideal for a variety of application such as tooling, molds, and production parts. In its as-sintered state, 17-4 PH material properties consistently meet industry standards. 

Knowing how your design will react as it withstands use is important. However, if you are able to discover a negative reaction or behavior before you go to production you can make the needed adjustments and save your company lots of time and money. When dealing with metal designs, Altair Inspire Extrude Metal is the simulation tool you need.

Environmental compliance regulations are becoming more and more demanding. Even consumers are starting to hold their own standards for what they believe is acceptable sustainability. The constant change creates a significant struggle for manufacturing. Ignoring the issue is out of the question when dealing with the consequences of noncompliance and public relations nightmares. How do you keep up with changing regulations and informed consumers while keeping costs low? 

In our last episode of this series, we take a deep dive into the Innovation of SOLIDWORKS 2019 to see what new features and tools have been added that can fundamentally change and improve your design process. These new enhancements not only give you free range in interacting with your design, but also allow you to experience it in new ways, especially when using the new Extended Reality program.