The Roland MDX-40 is a desktop Subtractive Rapid Prototyping (SRP) system that offers product designers and jewelers a major value. At a list price of $10,995, the MDX-40 is less than half the cost of most additive systems while producing prototypes out of a wider variety of non-proprietary materials with greater precision and better surface finish.

1. Functional Prototypes

Like all Roland SRP devices, the MDX-40 can mill a wide range of low cost, non-proprietary materials including ABS, delrin, nylon, tooling board and modeling wax. This lets engineers create functional prototypes to test how well products will actually work. Handled by market focus groups, these prototypes must perform like the final manufactured product and survive a barrage of physical tests, including thermal and structural trials. For example, toothbrush prototypes undergo in-vivo testing for hand fit, brush reach and handle deflection.

2. 4-th Rotary Axis

With its 4th rotary axis, the MDX-40 performs both unattended two- and four-sided milling. When one side is completed, the part is automatically rotated until all four sides have been milled. This saves the time and reduces errors associated with rotating objects by hand.

3. High Precision

The MDX-40’s hi-precision spindle decreases vibration within the unit and produces extremely accurate models. It achieves resolutions up to 0.000039 inches per step and creates the most accurate prototypes for complex snap-fits. With ISO15448 standard collets, the MDX-40 also generates a smooth surface finish that requires little to no post finishing work.

4. Compact and Fully Enclosed

The MDX-40 is a compact and fully enclosed desktop mill. It runs quietly and fits easily in any engineering office or jewelry shop. At the same time, its large work area (12 x 12 x 4-1/8”) is large enough to accommodate most prototyping needs.

5. Speedy Production

Roland SRP devices can mill parts in an average time of just over four hours. According to Todd Grimm’s independent study of RP systems, the SRP process saves time by producing parts that are smooth and precise right off the machine. Additive systems, on the other hand, typically require time-consuming post finishing processes.

5. Bundled CAM Software

MDX-40 comes bundled with toolpath generation software - Roland MODELA Player 4, and the machining simulation software - Virtual Modela. This powerful and easy-to-use CAM software supports continuous 4th axis milling for producing a silky-smooth surface finish. The software accepts IGES, DXF and STL files exported from all popular CAD and jewelry software applications, including SolidWorks, SolidEdge, Inventor, ProEngineer, Gemvision Matrix, Artcam Jewelsmith, Type3 3Design, JewelCAD, JewelSpace and Rhino.

6. ProtoWizard Software & Fixtures

Roland’s optional ProtoWizard software and fixture bundle allow jewelers to take full advantage of MDX-40 for making wax jewelry models. ProtoWizard lets jewelers import industry standard STL files and easily converts them into NC files ready to be milled. The software is compatible with all jewelry design software, including GEMvision Matrix, Rhino® with Techgems, ArtCAM Jewelsmith and Type3 3Design. The included 3-sided ring fixture and ring arbor allow for the production of even the most complex designs.

7. Reliable Performer

Roland's international ISO certification is your quality assurance. Like all Roland products, the MDX-40 was designed and manufactured at a state-of-the-art, ISO-certified facility. Roland builds all products at its advanced Digital Factory one at a time by a single assembler - just like a Rolls Royce. Attention to detail is given the highest priority.

Brochure & Specifications  

Price: $10,995 (lease available)