I am trying to keep stuff local and not go to China to have things made when I come up with prototypes, etc. Some things I may need can’t be machined or CNC’ed and I need somebody who can set up a mold and make parts for me. Stuff is small sized and quantities aren’t in the 100’s.
If anyone has any contacts or recommendations, please let me know. Especially interested in people you have actual experience dealing with if not you personally.
You can talk to Luther Cifers at Yak Attack in Virginia. They aren’t local (Charleston), but they are small, family owned, and do some really cool stuff.
Phin, my company has started investing a little in 3d printing and there are multiple different materials you can use depending on the application. Depending on what the parts are meant for, I would seriously consider looking at these newer printers. Very affordable within reason and if you don’t have the means/need to purchase one, there are several smaller guys around that you can contract out the work. Hit me up if you need some names/numbers.
Aarubco rubber is who we use at work and they do good stuff. I also used wmgoodyear for my last design and they did great and had great prices and are family owned but not local. http://www.wmgoodyear.com/wmgoodyear/Home.html