Cass-Rapid Proto Machining (C-RPM) is a specialized rapid prototyping service that provides our customers with prototype, build-to-print contract machined parts with accelerated delivery responsiveness. Whether you need a complex prototype, quick-turn prototype, or are looking to try numerous prototype designs, Cass has you covered with our rapid prototype machining services.
Our expert C-RPM team in MN offers quick-turn responses in each phase of prototyping: feasibility, small quantity fitment builds, and concept/pre-production demonstration runs. Our goal is to supply you with a complete part. We use our C-RPM material consulting, rapid prototype machining expertise, and coordinated services to deliver the finish you desire. With part sizes ranging from up to 8 inches in diameter to 26 inches in overall length, our C-RPM team in Minnesota will provide quick responses to your rapid prototyping needs.
Rapid Prototyping Applications and Industries We Serve
Cass C-RPM supports rapid prototype machining across a wide range of industries and applications. From first-article aerospace components to pre-production medical device parts, our team has the equipment, materials expertise, and process knowledge to deliver accurate, production-ready prototypes on accelerated timelines. Industries that rely on Cass for rapid prototype machining in Minnesota include aerospace, defense, automotive, medical and healthcare, energy, construction equipment, and industrial manufacturing. Whether your project requires a single concept build or a small fitment run of complex parts, C-RPM is built to respond quickly at every phase.Cass C-RPM supports rapid prototype machining across a wide range of industries and applications. From first-article aerospace components to pre-production medical device parts, our team has the equipment, materials expertise, and process knowledge to deliver accurate, production-ready prototypes on accelerated timelines. Industries that rely on Cass for rapid prototype machining in Minnesota include aerospace, defense, automotive, medical and healthcare, energy, construction equipment, and industrial manufacturing. Whether your project requires a single concept build or a small fitment run of complex parts, C-RPM is built to respond quickly at every phase.
C-RPM Rapid Prototyping Machines
Cass Precision Machining has made a concerted effort to ramp up our C-RPM initiatives by investing in two rapid prototyping machines that help us turn out quality prototype parts in a timely fashion.
Located in Brooklyn Center, MN, Cass Precision Machining serves manufacturers throughout the Twin Cities and Upper Midwest who need fast, accurate prototype parts without sacrificing quality. Our C-RPM cell is purpose-built for quick-turn prototype machining, with in-house tooling design that shortens lead times and supports rapid Design for Manufacturing (DFM) validation. From feasibility builds to pre-production demonstration runs, Minneapolis-area engineers and procurement teams rely on Cass for precision prototype parts that are ready to test, not just ready to ship.
TSUGAMI M08SY
The Tsugami M08SY Turning Center with a Y-axis allows you to perform highly complex machining, such as turning, drilling, boring, cross-drilling, and CNC milling. The main and sub-spindle of this rapid prototyping machine have integral built-in spindle motors which minimize vibration and provide superior accel/decel for heavy-duty cutting and fine finishing. The Y-axis enables off-center CNC milling of complex parts, and incorporating the sub-spindle eliminates the need for secondary operations.
Ideal for a wide range of rapid prototyping applications, the M08SY provides high-accuracy, high-production machining. The Y-axis enables turret tool positioning above or below the center. The robust 12-position turret mounted to the Y-axis allows users to mount driven tooling at any turret position for use on the main or sub-spindle. This tool zone flexibility coupled with the C-axis provides the capability and flexibility to machine virtually any feature and drop your part completely in one clamping. Additionally, the reliable M08SY features a very robust yet compact base. The X and Y feature massive box way construction allowing for superior rigidity and dampening when taking heavy cuts. The Z slide features heavy-duty linear roller guideways for speed and rigidity. The three axes offer exceptional accuracy and long machine life.
DOOSAN 5700 MILL
The new DNM series includes three rapid prototyping machines: the DNM 4500, 5700, and 6700, stepped up in size and capacity. In general, the series offers larger cutting space by 6%, bigger table sizes by 14%, and heavier loads by 25%, while maintaining the same overall footprint as the previous generation. For the three models, the X-axis travel is 800 mm (31.5 in.), 1,050 mm (41.3 in.), and 1,300 mm (51 in.). The Y-axis is 450 mm (17.7 in.), 570 mm (22.4 in.), and 670 mm (26.4 in.). The Z-axis is 510 mm (20 in.), 510 mm (20 in.), and 625 mm (24.6 in.). The new DNM series features direct-coupled, thru-coolant type spindles as standard, providing 8,000 rpm (15/11 kW) and 12,000 rpm (18.5/11 kW).
Vibration and noise are greatly reduced during high-speed operations, and thermal displacement is also improved. The direct drive spindles also contribute to faster accel/decel rates, and tool change times have also been optimized to reduce non-cutting time. Tool storage ranges from 30 to 60 stations. Additionally, the thru-the-spindle coolant design keeps the coolant exactly where it needs to be—at the tooltip—and prototype machine operators do not have to keep adjusting and monitoring coolant nozzles.
Other specifications include a Big Plus 40 tool taper interface and table sizes of 1,000 x 450 mm (39.4 x 17.7 in.), 1,300 x 570 mm (51.2 x 21.3 in.), and 1,500 x 670 mm (59.1 x 26.4 in.). Maximum table loads are 600 kg (1322.8 lbs.), 1,000 kg (2204.6 lbs.), and 1,300 kg (2866 lbs.). One of the key highlights of the control system is the standard “Easy Operation Package” (EOP), developed by Doosan that provides numerous functions designed for expedient operation via pop-up windows and “hot keys.” For example, adaptive federate control, tool management, tool load monitoring, table setup, and tool changer recovery are among the several convenient choices.
Contact us to learn more about our rapid prototype machining services.
The C-RPM Rapid Prototyping Process
Why Minnesota Manufacturers Choose Cass for Rapid Prototype Machining
Cass Precision Machining has been a trusted manufacturing partner in the Twin Cities for over 80 years, and our C-RPM service reflects that same commitment to reliability and quality. Prototype programs are high-stakes: schedules are tight, designs are still evolving, and a slow or inaccurate first article can set an entire product launch back. Our C-RPM team is structured specifically to eliminate those delays.
We design and manufacture our tooling in-house, which reduces lead times and allows us to validate Design for Manufacturing requirements faster than shops that rely on outside tooling vendors. Our material consulting service helps customers select the right material for their application before machining begins, avoiding costly revisions mid-prototype. And because Cass coordinates outside services such as anodizing, heat treating, plating, shot peening, and custom packaging, your prototype arrives as a complete, ready-to-evaluate part.
Here is what sets Cass C-RPM apart from other rapid prototype machining services in Minnesota:
- In-house tooling design and manufacturing for faster DFM validation and shorter delivery lead times
- Material consulting to help identify the right alloy, steel, aluminum, plastic, or specialty material for your prototype requirements
- Part sizes up to 8 inches in diameter and 26 inches in overall length
- Broad machining capabilities including CNC turning, vertical milling, live tool lathe work, Swiss machining, and finish grinding
- Coordinated outside services including anodizing, finishing, heat treating, plating, shot peening, and custom packaging, all managed by Cass
- Quick-turn responses at every prototyping phase: feasibility, small quantity fitment builds, and concept and pre-production demonstration runs
- Over 80 years of precision machining experience backed by a full-service campus in the Minneapolis metro
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Frequently Asked Questions about Rapid Prototyping
What is rapid prototyping?
Rapid prototyping is a manufacturing process that quickly fabricates a physical part or assembly from a 3D computer-aided design (CAD) model. This approach allows engineers and product teams to fast-track iteration and design testing before committing to full-scale production. At Cass Precision Machining in Minneapolis, our C-RPM service takes rapid prototyping further by combining advanced CNC machining, material consulting, and coordinated outside services to deliver complete, production-ready parts on accelerated timelines.
How does rapid prototyping work?
The C-RPM rapid prototyping process begins with a design review of your CAD model, which is then converted into a format suited to the chosen machining method. From there, materials are selected with input from our material consulting team, machining begins on our Tsugami and Doosan equipment, and finishing services are coordinated before the final prototype is delivered. Cass supports every phase of this process in-house or through our trusted network of outside service partners, so you receive a complete part rather than a raw machined blank.
What materials are used in rapid prototyping?
Cass C-RPM handles a wide range of materials including alloys, carbon steel, stainless steel, titanium, aluminum, brass, bronze, machinable plastics, and more. The right material depends on the prototype’s intended function, required durability, and the specific machining method being used. Our material consulting service helps customers evaluate their options before machining begins, reducing the risk of costly mid-prototype design changes.
How long does rapid prototyping take?
Timeline varies based on design complexity, material selection, and the prototyping phase. Simple prototypes can be produced in a few days, while more intricate designs requiring multiple operations or outside finishing services may take longer. The C-RPM cell at Cass is built specifically for quick-turn responsiveness, and our team provides timeline estimates as part of the quoting process so you know what to expect before machining begins.
What industries benefit from rapid prototyping?
Industries that rely on Cass for rapid prototype machining in Minnesota include aerospace, defense, automotive, medical and healthcare, energy, construction equipment, and industrial manufacturing. Whether your project requires a single concept build or a small fitment run of complex parts, C-RPM is built to respond quickly at every phase.
What are the advantages of rapid prototyping?
Rapid prototyping reduces development time, lowers the cost of design iteration, and improves final product quality by allowing teams to test and refine components before full production begins. At Cass, the C-RPM service adds further advantages: in-house tooling design shortens lead times, material consulting reduces guesswork up front, and coordinated outside services mean your prototype arrives complete and ready to evaluate. For manufacturers in Minnesota and throughout the Upper Midwest, Cass delivers all of these benefits under one roof.
Ready to Start Your Prototype? Call Cass Precision Machining
Get the precision, reliability, and efficiency your project demands with rapid prototyping services from Cass Precision Machining in Brooklyn Center, MN. Whether you are in early feasibility, building fitment samples, or preparing for a pre-production demonstration run, the C-RPM team is ready to respond quickly with the quality and accuracy your company requires. We serve manufacturers throughout Minneapolis, the Twin Cities, and the Upper Midwest with quick-turn machining, complete part delivery, and over 80 years of precision manufacturing expertise.
Call 763-535-0501 or contact us online today to discuss your rapid prototyping project and get a quote.