3D Printing
Today’s technology offers a variety of 3D printing approaches. The right process and material for your project depends on several variables. If you are unsure of the best path, we will take the time to listen and help match your project with the best 3D technology and material. Below are the different types of 3D printing we offer.
This technology utilizes a spool of thermoplastic material called Filament. The filament is heated and pushed through a very fine nozzle at very precise increments to complete a part from the base up.
Materials utilized: PLA, Wood, ABS, PETG, TPU (rubber-like), Polypropylene, and
more!
Pros:
- Medium Print Speed
- Cost-Effective
- On-Demand Preparation
- Easily modified and customized components
- Large selection of materials
Cons:
- Limited part strength and heat restrictions in materials
- Needs support for overhanging features
- Lower resolution surface finish/post-processing
- Completes (1) layer at a time
SLA printing utilizes photosensitive liquid resin that cures while being exposed to UV light. This technology is ideal for organic shapes that require very miniscule details and very high resolution surface finish.
Materials utilized: Hard resins, semi-flexible resins, casting resins, and impact
resistant resins.
Pros:
- Extremely high detail
- Minimal Post Processing
- Fast Print Speed
- Cheaper to print batches
Cons:
- Limited material selection
- The least part strength offered
- Printing size capabilities are typically smaller
- Manual cleaning and curing of parts after printing
- Requires supports that leave small dimples
SLS printing utilizes powdered material and a high powered laser to sinter parts. This is ideal for parts that require extreme strength and highly accurate features.
Materials utilized: Nylon, Onyx, Polypropylene, and Flexibles.
Pros:
- Very High detail
- Extreme part strength
- Requires no supports
- Production Quality
Cons:
- Requires sandblasting / post-processing
- Slowest Print Time
- Small build chamber
- Material Cost