Prototyping
Prototype Development and Manufacturing Services
While S&W Metal Products is typically a production part fabricator, we offer extensive experience in prototype development and manufacturing. Whether your project requires iterative prototyping stages or a single run of prototype parts as a proof of concept, S&W will deliver the same superior quality our company is known for in fabrication and machining.
Product Development and Design Optimization
Once you have a part drawing, concept, or prototype in mind, the production process truly begins with development and design. Beyond translating your product ideas to manufacturable specifications, we can help refine your designs for manufacturability – potentially improving end quality and/or reducing costs.
Our product design, development, and engineering capabilities include:
- Engineering Software:
- Solidworks Software – 2025 licensing
- Fabrication and Machining Software:
- Bystronic BySoft CAM – Laser Cutting & Bending Programming
- Autopol – Press Brake Programming
- Merry Mech (SMP) – Turret Punch Programming
- Hurco Max 5 (Console & Desktop) – Milling & 4th Axis Programming
- Solidworks CAM Professional – Lathe Programming
- Engineering Software:
Rapid Prototyping: CNC Machining and Fabrication Solutions
After your design is finalized, many of S&W’s projects require a prototyping phase before transitioning to production. The prototyping process creates samples of the final product to validate the design and functionality while ensuring all specifications are met.
Rapid Prototyping
Advanced CNC technologies help us create accurate prototypes for review with minimal lead times. Our rapid prototyping services provide quick turnaround to fast-track your path to production while also facilitating iterative prototype development for design optimization.
Functional Testing
The prototype enables customers to test for mechanical performance, fit, and other functional criteria, confirming that the design is sound and meets all requirements.
Design Modifications
Any issues identified during testing are addressed, and adjustments are made to the original design if needed. For some projects, this will be an iterative process necessitating multiple prototyping phases.
Continuous Quality Control
Of course, ongoing quality assurance is crucial to every step of the fabrication process. S&W’s ISO 9001:2015 quality control system includes detailed inspections of products and testing as necessary. We confirm precision, consistency, and functionality of the end product in numerous aspects, including:
Dimensional Inspection
The finished product’s dimensions are checked against the technical drawings to ensure accuracy.
Visual Inspection
Surfaces are examined for any cosmetic flaws, such as scratches, blemishes, or irregularities in the finish.
Compliance Check
The product is checked for adherence to any relevant industry standards, regulatory requirements, as well as in meeting all customer specifications.
Our quality control department is strategically located throughout our facility. Skilled personnel conduct and assist with all manner of first-piece, in-process, and final inspections.
In addition to managing the company’s ISO program, the quality department drives continuous improvement by collaborating with all departments to develop work instructions and other templates, thereby establishing and maintaining production standards.
Quality American Machining and Fabrication Services Since 1946
S&W Metal Products is much more than just your typical contract manufacturer offering custom metal forming services. Our flexible, full-service fabrication capabilities, combined with CNC machining, enable us to tackle a wider range of projects optimized for quality, cost, and delivery speed. Backed by the experience you can trust, our company brings more than 75 years of American manufacturing innovation and excellence to your project.