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Prototype Projects with IPFL Rapid Prototyping

Fast turnaround prototype project components and microfluidics

Where Speed Meets Precision and Quality

In the fast-paced world of product development, IPFL stands as a beacon of efficiency and precision with our Rapid Prototyping services. Since embracing 3D printing in 2003, we have continually evolved to meet and exceed the urgent demands of our clients, delivering outstanding quality parts in record time.

3D Printing Technologies at a Glance

  • HP MJF – robust nylon parts for low-volume production or bridge-to-production runs.
  • High-Performance FDM – engineering-grade plastics for functional testing.
  • SLA – crisp, watertight surfaces ideal for visual models or clear microfluidic chips.
  • PolyJet – multi-material, colour and elastomer simulation in one print.
  • BMF PµSL – 2-10 µm resolution for miniature gears, stents and MEMS fixtures.

SLA 3D printed large lens

Pushing Boundaries in Rapid Prototyping

Since adding 3D printing to our toolkit in 2003, IPFL has delivered thousands of rapid prototypes that look, feel and function like final parts. Our Cambridge-area facility combines ISO-controlled workflows with same-day dispatch, giving UK innovators a head-start in today’s race to market.

More creative freedom: Rapid prototyping enables designers to experiment with different design ideas and concepts without committing to a final design. This can help to foster creativity and innovation in the design process.
Reduced costs: Rapid prototyping can help to reduce the cost of product development by identifying design flaws and issues earlier in the process. This means that changes can be made before expensive manufacturing processes begin.
Better user feedback: Rapid prototyping enables designers to get feedback from users earlier in the design process. This means that designers can make changes based on user feedback before the product is finalized, which can lead to a better user experience.

Why Engineers Trust IPFL for Prototype Projects

Rapid prototyping with IPFL lets design teams iterate in hours, not weeks. Early user testing uncovers flaws before tooling costs mount, slashing both risk and budget. The result? Better products, fewer surprises and faster approvals.

From CAD Upload to Plastic Parts in 24 Hours Upload your STL or STEP file before 3 pm and receive finished 3D-printed parts the next working day – couriered anywhere in the UK. Need machining, tapping or bonded over-moulds? We’ll integrate them into the same lead-time.
Faster design iteration: Rapid prototyping enables designers to quickly create and test multiple design iterations. This means that the design process can be more efficient and less time-consuming, allowing designers to make changes and improvements to their designs more quickly.
Improved collaboration: Rapid prototyping allows designers, engineers, and stakeholders to collaborate more effectively by providing a tangible representation of the design. This can help to reduce misunderstandings and ensure that everyone is on the same page.
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Micro-Precision, 3D Printing Microfluidics & Rapid Fluidics

Achieve true micro-precision with channels as narrow as 25 µm and feature walls down to 10µm, produced on our BMF PµSL and high-resolution SLA platforms. These ultra-smooth surfaces eliminate dead zones and ensure laminar flow—critical for lab-on-a-chip, organ-on-a-chip and point-of-care diagnostic cartridges.

By printing microfluidic chips directly in optically clear resins, we remove the need for multi-piece assembly and maximise light-path clarity for fluorescence or microscopy. Where hybrid construction is required, our laser-cut COC layers are diffusion-bonded to form hermetic seals that withstand aggressive reagents and autoclave cycles.

Located just outside Cambridge, IPFL delivers 3D-printed microfluidics in as little as 24 hours, complete with threaded ports, push-fit connectors or integrated sensors. Every part ships with dimensional reports and can be batch-coded for traceability—ideal for regulated med-tech and pharmaceutical workflows.

From quick concept chips to pilot-scale rapid fluidics runs, our engineers collaborate under NDA, offering design-for-manufacture feedback, finite-element fluid simulations and post-print surface treatments that drive reproducible results in the lab and in the field.

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Choose IPFL for Comprehensive Rapid Prototyping

  • Specialist FDM Materials: Ideal for applications requiring durability and high strength.
  • HP MJF Technology: Optimal for creating batch production-ready components.
  • SLA 3D Printing: The go-to choice for prototypes needing exceptional surface quality.
  • Polyjet 3D Printing: Perfect for projects requiring multi-material and flexible overmould simulations.
  • BMF PµSL (Projection Micro Stereolithography): Unmatched for creating micro-precision parts with intricate details and smooth finishes.
  • Precision Plastic CNC Machining: For prototypes that demand exact tolerances and specific material properties, our machining services offer unparalleled precision.
  • Custom Plastic Fabrication: We blend various fabrication techniques to create prototypes that are as functional as they are aesthetically pleasing.

Our rapid prototyping capabilities extend beyond 3D printing. With a combination of advanced printing technologies, precision machining, and expert fabrication, IPFL is uniquely positioned to bring your concept to life, no matter how complex or challenging. Our team of experts is dedicated to guiding you through each step of the prototyping process, ensuring your project’s success from conception to completion.

SLA 3d printing machine