Why Work with AIXI? Why Choose Us for Your Parts?
Our industrial 3D printing, CNC machining, sheet metal fabrication, and injection molding services produce parts directly from your 3D CAD model, minimizing the risk of errors. Our proprietary software automates toolpath generation, reducing manufacturing time and costs.
Which Companies Do You Work With?
Due to the proprietary and competitive nature of the projects we handle, we do not disclose our client list. However, we regularly receive permission to share success stories from our clients. Check out our success stories here.
Is a Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA) Required to Work with AIXI?
An NDA is not required to work with us. When you upload your CAD model to our site, we use state-of-the-art encryption, ensuring that everything you upload is protected under confidentiality agreements. For more details, contact your account representative.
What Industries Use AIXI’s Services?
We serve a variety of industries, including medical devices, automotive, lighting, aerospace, technology, consumer products, and electronics.
When Should I Use Machining Versus Injection Molding?
Before committing to injection-mold tooling or high-volume machining, it’s often best to test a part that closely matches the production part. CNC machining is ideal for this scenario.
Additionally, when engineers need a small number of parts for test fixtures, assembly jigs, or fixtures, machining is often the best choice. Traditional machine shops typically charge significant non-recurring engineering (NRE) fees for programming and fixturing, making small quantities expensive. Our automated CNC machining process eliminates upfront NRE costs and offers quantities as low as one part at an affordable price, with delivery in as fast as one day.
Injection molding is better suited for larger quantities needed for functional or market testing, bridge tooling, or low-volume production. If you need parts before steel tooling can be created (which typically takes 6 to 10 weeks with other molders), or if your volume doesn’t justify expensive steel tooling, we can supply production parts quickly (up to 10,000+ parts) in just 1 to 20 days.
How Many Machines Do You Have?
We currently operate over 1,000 mills, lathes, 3D printers, presses, press brakes, and other manufacturing equipment. As we continue to grow, this number is constantly increasing.
Are My Parts Made in the United States?
We have 10 manufacturing facilities in the United States and Europe, all producing parts.
Why Do You Have Manufacturing Facilities in Other Countries?
We manufacture all parts for North America at our U.S. facilities, and we ship internationally from the U.S. as well. Our manufacturing facility in England supports our European clients.
How Do I Get a Quote?
To receive a quote for our services, simply upload a 3D CAD model on our site. You’ll receive an interactive quote within hours, along with free design feedback. If there are issues with your design, our quoting system will provide detailed feedback on potential manufacturing challenges and suggest possible solutions.
Can I Quote My Part for All Services at Once?
You can get a quote for injection molding and machining together, but for 3D printing, a separate quote request is needed.
What Types of Files Do You Accept?
We accept native SolidWorks (.sldprt) or ProE (.prt) files, as well as solid 3D CAD models from other systems in formats such as IGES (.igs), STEP (.stp), ACIS (.sat), or Parasolid (.x_t or .x_b). We can also accept .stl files. We do not accept 2D drawings.
I Don’t Have a 3D CAD Model. Can You Create One for Me?
At this time, we do not offer design services. If you need help creating a 3D CAD model, please contact us via email, and we can provide you with contact information for designers familiar with our process.
Does AIXI Offer Finishing Options and Secondary Processes?
We offer enhanced finishing options and secondary processes across all of our service lines, including injection molding, CNC machining, 3D printing, and sheet metal fabrication.
Do You Provide First Article Inspection (FAI) Services?
Yes, we offer FAIs on both machined and molded parts.
How is 3D Printing Different at AIXI?
At AIXI, our focus is on delivering the fastest and highest-quality prototypes and production parts in the industry. This requires the latest technology and stringent process controls. Our industrial-grade 3D printing equipment is state-of-the-art and meticulously maintained to ensure consistent performance with every build. Our skilled team follows carefully refined procedures to produce your parts to the highest standards.
What is Stereolithography (SL)?
Stereolithography (SL) is one of the oldest 3D printing technologies, but it remains a gold standard for overall accuracy, surface finish, and resolution. It uses an ultraviolet laser focused on a small point, drawing onto the surface of a liquid thermoset resin. The liquid solidifies where the laser draws, and this process is repeated in thin, two-dimensional cross-sections that build up into complex three-dimensional parts. While the material properties may not be as robust as those produced by Selective Laser Sintering (SLS), the surface finish and detail achieved by SL are exceptional.
What is Selective Laser Sintering (SLS)?
Selective Laser Sintering (SLS) uses a CO2 laser to sinter thermoplastic powder into a solid, layer by layer, on a heated bed. After each layer is sintered, a roller spreads a new layer of powder, and the process repeats. SLS uses actual engineering thermoplastics, which makes its parts tougher and more durable. This method is ideal for producing functional prototypes and low-volume production parts.
What is PolyJet?
PolyJet is a 3D printing technology that builds multi-material prototypes with flexible features and intricate geometries. It offers a variety of material hardnesses (durometers) suitable for components like gaskets, seals, and housings. PolyJet works by jetting small droplets of liquid photopolymer from multiple jets onto a build platform, curing each layer as it builds up. After the build, support material is manually removed, and the parts are ready for use without the need for post-curing.
What is Direct Metal Laser Sintering (DMLS)?
Direct Metal Laser Sintering (DMLS) uses a fiber laser to sinter atomized metal powder into a solid. This process is repeated layer by layer, with a recoater blade adding fresh powder between each layer. DMLS can work with most metal alloys, enabling the production of functional hardware made from the same materials as production components. The ability to build parts layer by layer allows for the creation of internal features and passages that would be impossible to achieve through traditional casting or machining methods.
How Dense are DMLS Parts?
DMLS parts are 99.5% dense, making them nearly as solid and strong as parts made through traditional manufacturing methods.
What Companies Do You Work With?
Due to the proprietary nature of the projects we handle, we do not publicly disclose our client list. However, we frequently have permission to share success stories from our customers. Check out our case studies to learn more.
I Don’t Have a 3D CAD Model. Can You Create One for Me?
At this time, we do not offer design services. If you need assistance creating a 3D CAD model for your project, please contact us via email, and we’ll provide contact information for design firms familiar with our process.
What is the Typical Cost of 3D-Printed Parts at AIXI?
Prices for 3D-printed parts typically start around $95. The best way to get an accurate quote is to submit your 3D CAD model, and we will provide an interactive quote.
What are AIXI’s CNC Machining Capabilities?
At AIXI, we offer CNC machining services for low quantities (from 1 to 200 pieces) with fast turnaround times, typically within 1 to 3 business days. We machine parts using engineering-grade materials that are ideal for both functional testing and end-use applications.
For more advanced machining needs or volume pricing, you can explore Hubs, our digital manufacturing network.
What Makes AIXI’s Process Unique?
Our CNC machining process is streamlined and unique. We have developed proprietary quoting software that runs on a large-scale compute cluster to generate the necessary CNC toolpaths to machine your parts. This innovative approach results in fast, convenient, and efficient quoting and part ordering, reducing lead times significantly.
What is the Typical Cost of a Machined Part at AIXI?
Prices for machined parts typically start around $65. The best way to get an accurate quote is to submit your 3D CAD model and receive an interactive ProtoQuote. Thanks to our automated fixturing processes and proprietary software, there are no upfront non-recurring engineering (NRE) costs. This makes it cost-effective to order quantities as low as 1 to 200 parts. While machining is generally priced higher than 3D printing, it offers superior material properties and surface finishes.
How Does the Quoting Process Work at AIXI?
Once you upload your 3D CAD model to our site, our software calculates the price to produce your part in various materials. It then generates an “as-milled view” of your part, providing you with an interactive quote. This allows you to compare material options, quantities, and review any differences between the original model and the machined part. You’ll also get a 3D visualization of the final product.
What Materials Does AIXI Offer for CNC Machining?
We stock a wide variety of plastic and metal materials for CNC machining, including ABS, nylon, polycarbonate (PC), polypropylene (PP), stainless steel, aluminum, copper, and brass. With over 40 materials to choose from, you’re sure to find the right fit for your project. We currently do not accept customer-supplied materials for machining.
If you need additional material options, check out the materials available through our digital supply network.
What are AIXI’s CNC Machining Capabilities? What are the Minimum and Maximum Sizes Offered?
For details on part sizes and machining considerations, please refer to our milling design guidelines and turning design guidelines. If you need tighter tolerances, volume pricing, or additional anodizing options, our digital manufacturing network can provide solutions for those requirements.
Why Should I Have My Part Machined Rather Than 3D Printed?
Machining offers parts with the true material properties of the selected material. You can have parts machined from solid blocks of plastic or metal in the same, if not faster, timeframe as 3D printing. This ensures the material’s strength, durability, and other physical characteristics are preserved, which is ideal for end-use components.
How Can I Get Additional Anodizing, Tighter Tolerances, and Volume Pricing from Hubs?
If you have an existing AIXI quote but want to explore additional options like anodizing, tighter tolerances, or volume pricing, you can switch to Hubs. Simply look for the option in your quote that says “See anodizing, tighter tolerances, and volume pricing options from Hubs, a AIXI company.” Click the link, and you’ll see a pop-up box. Then, click “Get an Instant Quote from Hubs,” and the system will load the options for you to review.
What are AIXI’s Sheet Metal Capabilities?
At AIXI, we specialize in fabricating functional prototypes and end-use parts with fast turnaround times, often within just 3 days.
What Makes AIXI’s Process Unique?
Thanks to our advanced design and manufacturing automation, AIXI can provide high-quality sheet metal parts quickly, reducing lead times significantly while maintaining precision and quality.
What is the Typical Cost of a Sheet Metal Part at AIXI?
Prices for sheet metal parts typically start around $125, depending on the complexity and geometry of the part. For an accurate cost estimate, the best approach is to upload your 3D model on our website and receive a FREE quote within hours. For instant costing and design-for-manufacturability feedback, you can download our free add-in for SolidWorks, eRapid.
How Does the Sheet Metal Quoting Process Work at AIXI?
To get a sheet metal quote, simply upload your CAD model and specifications to rapidquote.aixirapid.com. You’ll receive a detailed quote within hours. Once you’re ready to proceed, you can log in to our platform to place your order.
What Materials Does AIXI Stock for Sheet Metal Fabrication?
We stock a variety of metal materials for sheet metal fabrication, including stainless steel, aluminum, copper, and brass. You can find a full list of stocked materials available for fabrication on our website.
What Are AIXI’s Sheet Metal Fabrication Capabilities? What is the Maximum Size for Parts?
For details on part size limitations and other considerations for sheet metal fabrication, please consult our sheet metal design guidelines. These guidelines will help you optimize your design for the fabrication process.
What are AIXI’s Injection Molding Capabilities?
AIXI offers plastic and liquid silicone rubber (LSR) molding, as well as overmolding and insert molding, for low-volume production ranging from 25 to over 10,000 pieces. With standard lead times as fast as 7 days, our rapid injection molding services help product developers get prototypes and production parts suitable for functional testing or final use in a matter of days.
What Makes AIXI’s Process Unique?
At AIXI, we’ve automated the quoting, design, and manufacturing of molds based on customer-supplied 3D CAD part models. Thanks to this automation and ultra-fast software running on high-performance compute clusters, we’re able to reduce manufacturing time for the initial parts to about one-third of conventional methods.
What is the Typical Cost of Injection-Molded Parts at AIXI?
Prices for injection-molded parts start around $1,495, depending on the complexity and geometry of the part. To get a more accurate estimate, simply upload your 3D model to our website and receive an interactive quote within hours. AIXI can create your mold at a fraction of the cost of traditional injection molding due to our proprietary software, automated processes, and the use of aluminum molds.
How Does the Quoting Process Work at AIXI?
By uploading your 3D model, you’ll receive an interactive quote that shows available materials and finishes, highlights any potential manufacturing issues, and provides quick-turn delivery options (depending on your part’s geometry). The real-time quote will give you immediate pricing feedback based on material selection and quantity, eliminating the need for multiple quotes.
What Resins Should I Use for Injection Molding?
When selecting resin, designers should consider material properties such as tensile strength, impact resistance, ductility, mechanical characteristics, and molding properties, as well as cost. If you need assistance choosing the right material, don’t hesitate to contact us.
What Resins Does AIXI Stock for Injection Molding?
AIXI stocks over 100 thermoplastic resins and accepts customer-supplied resins. You can view the full list of available resins on our website.
What Are AIXI’s Injection Molding Capabilities? What is the Maximum Size for Parts?
For specific details about part sizes and other considerations for injection molding, check out our design guidelines for injection molding.
Why Should I Choose Molded Parts Over 3D-Printed Parts?
Injection-molded parts from AIXI have the true material properties of your selected resin, ensuring higher strength and durability. With improved surface finishes, molded parts are ideal for both functional testing and end-use production, offering better performance compared to 3D-printed parts.
What is an AIXI Proposed Revision?
An AIXI Proposed Revision is a suggested modification to your part geometry to ensure that your design complies with our rapid manufacturing capabilities. This helps optimize your part for our production processes.
What File Format Will You Send Me?
Depending on the source file, we generally provide STEP, IGES, and SolidWorks files.
What Should I Do If I Like the Change?
If you accept the Proposed Revision, you can proceed with the part as it is shown with the revision, provided that:
- There are no unresolved required changes.
- You accept the Proposed Revision by checking the box in section three of your quote.
What If I Like the Change but Want to Order from My Own Source File?
If you want to proceed with your own source file, follow these steps:
- Download the revised model by clicking the ‘Download Revised Model’ button in section two of the quote to compare AIXI’s geometry to your original version.
- Update your model to match the Proposed Revision in your own CAD tool and resubmit the updated model for a new quote. This ensures alignment between the quote and your updated part.
- Once the updated quote is returned with no required changes, you can proceed to order the part.
What Should I Do If I Don’t Like (or Can’t Accept) the Change?
If you don’t like or can’t accept the proposed changes, you have several options:
- Modify your part geometry in a different way to align with the intent of the Proposed Revision.
- Contact an applications engineer at AIXI to discuss alternative solutions or adjustments (email us at [email protected] or call +86 13342948130).
How Do I Find Out More About Why You Made the Change?
For more information on why the change was made, or to discuss any specific process requirements, feel free to contact an applications engineer at AIXI.
Are There Extra Fees for Proposed Revisions? What is the Price of This Service?
Proposed Revisions are provided at no extra charge. The revised geometry is priced as any part would be, and some changes may affect the price (up or down). However, most price changes due to minor geometry revisions are usually negligible.
Is This a Design Service?
No, AIXI does not offer product design services. Proposed Revisions are provided to ensure that your geometry is compatible with our manufacturing processes.
Why Was I Asked to Update My AIXI Viewer Plug-in?
Proposed Revisions are compatible only with the latest version of the AIXI Viewer. This ensures proper visualization and handling of the revisions.
What Happens If My Part Doesn’t Function Based on the AIXI Change?
While AIXI can help ensure compatibility with our manufacturing processes, you are ultimately responsible for the part design and its functionality.
Can I Opt Out of the Proposed Revision Process?
If you prefer not to participate in the Proposed Revision process, simply note that when you upload your part, and we will proceed without it.
What is the AIXI Network?
AIXI’s global network of premium manufacturing partners, powered by Hubs, offers enhanced capabilities, tighter tolerances, volume pricing, and the capacity to handle more complex parts.
Where Can I Learn About These Capabilities?
You can visit aixirapid.com and explore the ‘Capabilities’ section to find the full range of machining, 3D printing, molding, and sheet metal fabrication services available through our network.
Who Can I Talk to About Vetting an Opportunity for the Digital Network at Hubs?
For guidance on the best approach for your project, speak with your AIXI account manager. You can also explore quoting through both systems and reach out to your account manager with any questions.
How Do I Get a Quote from the Digital Network at Hubs?
Click the blue ‘Get instant quote’ button on hubs.com, upload your part, and get a quote through Hubs’ regular quoting portal.
Do I Need Two Different Sign-Ins/Accounts for AIXI and Hubs?
Currently, you will need to log in to each platform separately: aixirapid.com for AIXI and hubs.com for Hubs. You’ll need an account for each website.
What If I Want to Use AIXI for Some Parts on a Project and Hubs for Other Parts?
You can place orders for the parts you want fulfilled by AIXI through aixirapid.com and the parts you want fulfilled by Hubs’ network through hubs.com.
What If a Project Requires ITAR Compliance?
AIXI continues to offer ITAR-compliant services as we currently do. However, Hubs does not support ITAR or export-restricted projects, so any such orders will need to be placed through aixirapid.com.
For more details, feel free to contact us at [email protected] or call us at +86 13342948130.
