Additive Manufacturing (3D Printing)
3D printing builds parts layer by layer from CAD, no fixtures, no tooling, no setup time. Plastic prints (FDM, SLA, SLS, MJF) deliver in 1–5 days. Metal prints (SLM, DMLS) in AlSi10Mg, Ti6Al4V, 316L, and tool steel deliver in 5–10 days. The default process for parts with internal channels, lattice structures, or geometry that can’t be cut or molded. For design best practices, see our 3D Printing DFM Guidelines.
3D Printing Capabilities
| Feature | Description |
| Maximum Part Size | FDM: 1000×1000×1000mm／SLA: 400×400×400mm／SLS-MJF: 380×380×700mm／ Metal SLM: 400×400×400mm |
| General Tolerances | FDM: ±0.3mm or ±0.3%／SLA-DLP: ±0.1mm／SLS-MJF: ±0.3mm／ SLM-DMLS: ±0.1–0.2mm (as-printed) |
| Precision Tolerances | Critical features held to ±0.05mm after post-machining |
| Standard Lead Time | Plastic prints: 2–5 business days／Metal prints: 5–10 business days plus post-processing |
| Processes | FDM, SLA, SLS, MJF, SLM/DMLS |
| Post-Processing | Surface Finishing |
| Type | Material | Service | Process | More Info |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ABS | ABS | 3D Printing | FDM | Data Sheet | Selection Logic |
| ABS-Like | ABS-like | 3D Printing | SLA | Data Sheet | Selection Logic |
| PC-Like | PC-like | 3D Printing | SLA | Data Sheet | Selection Logic |
| Transparent Resin | Transparent resin | 3D Printing | SLA | Data Sheet | Selection Logic |
| Nylon / PA | Nylon | 3D Printing | FDM | Data Sheet | Selection Logic |
| Nylon / PA | PA11 | 3D Printing | SLS | Data Sheet | Selection Logic |
| Nylon / PA | PA12 | 3D Printing | SLS | Data Sheet | Selection Logic |
| Glass-Filled Nylon / PA | Nylon-GF | 3D Printing | FDM | Data Sheet | Selection Logic |
| Glass-Filled Nylon / PA | PA12-GF | 3D Printing | SLS | Data Sheet | Selection Logic |
| PETG | PETG | 3D Printing | FDM | Data Sheet | Selection Logic |
| PLA | PLA | 3D Printing | FDM | Data Sheet | Selection Logic |
| Type | Material | Service | Process | More Info |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Aluminum | AlSi10Mg | 3D Printing | SLM / DMLS | Data Sheet | Selection Logic |
| Titanium | Ti-6Al-4V | 3D Printing | SLM / DMLS | Data Sheet |
| Stainless Steel | 17-4PH | 3D Printing | SLM / DMLS | Data Sheet | Selection Logic |
| Stainless Steel | 316L | 3D Printing | SLM / DMLS | Data Sheet | Selection Logic |
(Coming Soon)
Materials Supported
Common Metal Materials
- Aluminum (AlSi10Mg)
- Stainless Steel (316L / 17-4 PH)
- Tool Steel (H13 / MS1 Maraging)
- Titanium (Ti6Al4V)
- Copper (CuCrZr / Pure Copper)
AlSi10Mg is the standard aluminum alloy for metal 3D printing on DMLS and SLM systems. It builds with low residual stress and machines cleanly after print. Typical density after print sits at 99.5%+, and parts hold mechanical properties close to cast A360. Used for lightweight brackets, heat exchangers with internal channels, and aerospace components where geometry can’t be cast. Heat treatment (T6) is standard to relieve build stress before final machining.
316L prints with strong layer adhesion and post-print corrosion resistance close to wrought 316L. Used for fluid manifolds, marine fittings, and medical fixtures. 17-4 PH is the harder option, prints in solution state, then heat-treated to H900 or H1025 condition for full strength. Both grades need stress relief before removal from the build plate to prevent warping.
Tool steel prints are used for conformal cooling channels in injection mold inserts, geometries that can’t be drilled. MS1 maraging steel age-hardens to 50+ HRC after print, common for tooling inserts and high-wear parts. H13 holds hardness at elevated temperatures, used for die-casting inserts and forging tools.
Ti6Al4V is the most-used titanium alloy in metal 3D printing. Strength-to-weight ratio and biocompatibility make it the default for aerospace structural parts, medical implants, and dental frameworks. Builds need argon shielding throughout, titanium reacts with oxygen at print temperature. HIP (hot isostatic pressing) is often applied after print to close internal porosity on load-bearing parts.
Copper alloys are printed for heat exchangers, induction coils, and electrical contacts where thermal or electrical conductivity is the design driver. Pure copper is hard to print on standard infrared lasers because of high reflectivity, green laser systems handle it better. CuCrZr is the more printable copper alloy, used where some strength is needed alongside conductivity.
Common Plastic Materials
PLA is the most common FDM filament for prototypes, concept models, and visual aids. Prints at 190–220°C with no enclosure required. Holds detail well on layer heights down to 0.1mm. Not suitable for parts that see temperatures above 60°C, PLA softens before structural failure. Used where the part is a model, not a working component.
PA12 is the workhorse for SLS (selective laser sintering) and MJF (Multi Jet Fusion). Builds without support structures because the powder bed holds the part. Strong layer bonding and good fatigue resistance, used for functional prototypes, living hinges, snap fits, and end-use parts under moderate load. Absorbs moisture in service; condition parts before precise dimensional measurement.
ABS prints on FDM systems with a heated bed and enclosed chamber. Without an enclosure, ABS warps as outer layers cool faster than the core. Used for functional prototypes, jigs, fixtures, and parts that need post-processing, ABS bonds to acetone vapor for surface smoothing. Higher temperature resistance than PLA (around 95°C) but lower than nylon.
PC prints at 260–310°C and requires an enclosed, heated chamber to prevent warping and delamination. Holds dimensional stability up to 130°C in service and takes impact without cracking. Used for structural prototypes, light covers, and parts that operate at elevated temperatures. Transparency in printed PC is limited, layer lines and light scattering prevent optical-grade clarity.
Resin printing covers a different process from filament-based methods. Standard resins build high-detail prototypes with smooth surfaces. Tough resin mimics ABS-like mechanical behavior. Castable resin is used for jewelry and dental wax-ups. High-temp resin handles 200°C+ service environments. All resin parts need post-cure under UV light to reach full mechanical properties.
Material Selection Guidance
Pick the material based on what the part has to do after it comes off the printer. PLA covers visual prototypes and concept models. PA12 handles functional parts that flex, snap, or take moderate load. PC and high-temp resins are for parts that operate above 100°C. AlSi10Mg and Ti6Al4V are reserved for metal parts where casting or machining can’t produce the geometry, internal channels, lattice structures, or topology-optimized brackets.
The process choice usually drives the material list, not the other way around. FDM and SLS share Nylon but produce different surface finishes and mechanical properties. SLM and DMLS share metal powders but differ in melt pool control. Lock in the process before debating the material grade.
Tolerances & Precision
3D printing tolerances depend on the process. FDM holds ±0.3mm or ±0.3% of dimension, whichever is larger. SLA and DLP hold ±0.1mm on small parts. SLS and MJF run ±0.3mm. Metal printing (SLM/DMLS) holds ±0.1mm on machined reference faces, looser on as-printed surfaces. Call out which features need post-machining if precision matters there
| General Tolerances | FDM: ±0.3mm or ±0.3% SLA/DLP: ±0.1mm SLS/MJF: ±0.3mm SLM-DMLS: ±0.1–0.2mm (as-printed) |
| Precision Tolerances | Critical features held to ±0.05mm after post-machining. As-printed surfaces can’t hold tighter than process minimum |
| Min Wall Thickness | FDM: 1.0mm SLA: 0.5mm SLS/MJF: 0.7mm Metal: 0.4mm |
| Min Feature Size | FDM: 0.8mm SLA: 0.2mm SLS: 0.5mm / Metal SLM: 0.3mm |
| Layer Height | FDM: 0.1–0.3mm SLA: 0.025–0.1mm SLS: 0.1–0.12mm Metal SLM: 0.02–0.06mm |
| Maximum Part Size | FDM: 1000×1000×1000mm SLA: 400×400×400mm SLS/MJF: 380×380×700mm Metal SLM: 400×400×400mm |
| Production | Prototyping: 1–50 pcs Bridge production: 51–5,000 pcs Volume production: case-by-case basis |
| Lead Time | Plastic prints: 2–5 business days. Metal prints: 5–10 business days plus post-processing time |
Surface Finishing Options
As Printed
Default finish straight off the printer. FDM shows 0.1–0.3mm layer steps; SLA shows fine steps under 0.05mm. SLS/MJF parts have a slightly grainy matte texture from sintered powder. Metal SLM/DMLS parts come off with support stubs and rough as-built surfaces (Ra 6–15µm).
Bead Blasting
Glass bead or aluminum oxide blasting evens out the surface on metal prints and removes residual powder on SLS/MJF nylon. Tumbling smooths edges and corners on small plastic parts in bulk. Reduces surface roughness on metal prints from Ra 6–15µm down to Ra 3–6µm without changing dimensions.
Sanding & Polishing
Manual finishing for SLA and FDM parts where layer lines need to disappear. Progressive grit from 240 to 2000, then polishing compound. Used on cosmetic surfaces and master patterns for casting. Time-intensive, labor cost scales with surface area, doubling cost on large parts.
Dyeing / Painting
SLS and MJF nylon parts dye easily, drop into a heated dye bath for uniform color through 0.5mm depth. SLA and FDM parts take primer and paint after light sanding. Anodizing available specifically for AlSi10Mg printed aluminum parts (same Type II/Type III process as machined aluminum)
Design Guidelines
A part can be printable on paper and still come back warped, with support marks across cosmetic faces, or thin walls that crumble during cleanup. Design for 3D printing means orienting the part so critical surfaces face up, walls stay above process minimums, and support structures land on faces that won’t show
| Core DFM Principles | Better 3D printing design means: – wall thickness above process minimum – build orientation chosen before final geometry – overhangs supported or angled above 45° – critical surfaces oriented to avoid support contact – tolerances called out only on features that get post-machined |
| Wall Thickness | FDM: minimum 1.0mm, recommended 1.5mm. SLA: minimum 0.5mm. SLS/MJF: minimum 0.7mm. Metal SLM: minimum 0.4mm. Walls below minimum tear during support removal or warp during cooling |
| Build Orientation | The XY plane holds tighter tolerances and smoother surfaces than the Z axis. Orient critical features parallel to the build plate. Long thin parts oriented vertically are faster to print but more prone to warping |
| Support Structures | Overhangs steeper than 45° from vertical need supports. Support contact leaves marks on the surface, orient cosmetic faces upward or to vertical walls. SLS and MJF skip supports entirely; the powder bed holds the part. |
| Holes and Channels | Holes printed in the XY plane are round. Holes printed in Z come out slightly oval and undersized, drill or ream after print if precise diameter matters. Internal channels in metal SLM need self-supporting cross-sections (teardrop or diamond shape) |
| Avoid Unnecessary Precision | As-printed tolerances don’t beat the process minimum, no matter what the drawing says. Critical features get machined after print. Mark on the drawing which surfaces need post-processing, leave the rest at standard print tolerance |
Typical Applications
Concept Models
A CNC machined concept model helps teams review part geometry against engineering drawings. Use it during prototype development to check form, accessible features, and design changes before production.
Functional Prototypes
CNC prototyping produces functional aluminum housing parts for checking mounting features and component interfaces. Prototype manufacturing in the intended material helps engineers identify changes before a production run.
Engineering Validation
Dimensional inspection compares CNC machined features with the drawing. These measurements support design verification of critical dimensions before assembly or further production.
Fit & Assembly Testing
Fit testing checks how a mating pin enters a machined bore. A trial mechanical assembly can reveal alignment, insertion, or clearance issues before parts are ordered in larger quantities.
Market Testing Samples
Small batches of near-final CNC machined product samples give customers physical parts for product evaluation, fit checks, and feedback before broader product testing or launch decisions.
Bridge Production
Low volume manufacturing keeps CNC machined parts available while production plans and bridge tooling are finalized. Repeatable small batches help teams move from prototype to production.
Equipment & Capacity
Our industrial 3D printing services cover FDM, SLA, SLS, MJF, and metal powder bed fusion. Process selection depends on material requirements, part geometry, dimensional tolerances, surface finish, and production quantity. We review these requirements before recommending a printing method and any necessary post-processing.
FDM (Fused Deposition Modeling)
Our FDM 3D printing service produces concept models, functional prototypes, jigs, fixtures, and large plastic components. Available materials include PLA, ABS, PETG, PC, and nylon. FDM is suitable when part size and material selection are more important than fine surface detail. Visible layer lines and build orientation must be considered during design.
SLA (Stereolithography)
Our SLA 3D printing service produces detailed resin parts with relatively smooth surfaces and fine features. Applications include appearance prototypes, small housings, and intricate models. ABS-like, PC-like, and transparent resins are available. Parts require cleaning, support removal, and appropriate UV post-curing.
SLS (Selective Laser Sintering)
Our SLS 3D printing service produces functional nylon parts in PA11, PA12, and available reinforced grades. Unfused powder supports the geometry during printing, eliminating dedicated support structures. SLS is suitable for complex housings, snap-fit features, and functional prototypes. Wall thickness, powder removal, and dimensional requirements must be reviewed before production.
MJF (Multi Jet Fusion)
Our MJF 3D printing service produces functional PA12 components for prototypes and batch production. Multi Jet Fusion 3D printing uses fusing agents and thermal energy to consolidate polymer powder. It is suitable for complex industrial parts, including enclosures, brackets, and assemblies. Surface texture, dimensional variation, and batch economics depend on part geometry and build conditions.
SLM / DMLS (Metal Powder Bed Fusion)
Our metal 3D printing services include SLM and DMLS for aluminum, stainless steel, titanium, and selected tool steels. Metal powder bed fusion supports complex brackets, internal channels, and tooling inserts that may be difficult to manufacture conventionally. Support removal, stress relief, heat treatment, and precision machining are specified according to the material and functional requirements.
Post-Processing
Our 3D printing post-processing options include support removal, depowdering, bead blasting, sanding, polishing, dyeing, heat treatment, and CNC machining where applicable. Post-processing requirements depend on the printing process, material, surface finish, and drawing tolerances. Additional operations are included in the manufacturing review and quotation.
Quality Control Flow
View our ISO 9001:2015 Certificate →
Incoming Inspection
Incoming quality control starts with the purchase order and material certificate. We check the specified alloy, temper, stock dimensions and material identification before machining. Any mismatch needs review before the material is released to production.
In-Process Inspection
First article inspection checks the initial part against the drawing before a production run continues. In process inspection then focuses on critical dimensions, workholding and changes that could affect part consistency. Tool wear or a setup change may call for another check.
Final Inspection
Finished parts are checked against the drawing for specified dimensions, hole locations and mating features. CMM inspection and suitable hand gauges support dimensional checks. Inspectors also look for burrs, damaged edges and surface defects before release.
Documentation and Traceability
Material certificates, job records and inspection results connect the finished part to its production lot. This supports material traceability when dimensions or material identity need to be checked later. Request a first article inspection report with your RFQ if the project requires one.
3D Printing: Common Questions
Which 3D printing process should I choose?
FDM is commonly used for economical plastic prototypes and fixtures. SLA is suitable for detailed resin parts with relatively smooth surfaces. SLS and MJF produce functional nylon parts without dedicated support structures. SLM and DMLS serve metal parts with complex internal features. Material performance, tolerances, quantity, and cost determine the final process selection.
What tolerances can 3D printed parts achieve?
3D printing tolerances vary with the process, material, part size, orientation, and geometry. Our published general targets include FDM at ±0.3 mm or ±0.3%, SLA at ±0.1 mm, and SLS/MJF at ±0.3 mm. These are preliminary capability targets, not universal guarantees. Critical metal features may require post-print CNC machining. Submit a drawing identifying dimensions that require inspection.
What is the minimum wall thickness for 3D printing?
Minimum wall thickness for 3D printing depends on the process, material, wall height, orientation, and surrounding geometry. Our published starting limits are 1.0 mm for FDM, 0.5 mm for SLA, 0.7 mm for SLS/MJF, and 0.4 mm for metal printing. These values require design review and do not establish structural adequacy. Thin walls should be evaluated for printability, handling, and service loads.
How much does industrial 3D printing cost?
3D printing cost depends on material, part volume, build orientation, machine time, quantity, and post-processing. Support removal, surface finishing, heat treatment, inspection, and precision machining can add cost. For repeat production, compare the total delivered cost with CNC machining or injection molding. Upload the CAD model and required quantity for a project-specific quotation.
What file formats do you accept for 3D printing?
We accept STL and STEP files for quotation review. STEP is particularly useful when the part requires engineering review or CNC machining after printing. STL files should have sufficient mesh resolution to represent the intended geometry. Include a PDF drawing when critical tolerances, threads, inspection requirements, or surface finishes must be specified.
How long does 3D printing take?
Our published standard lead times are 2–5 business days for plastic printing and 5–10 business days for metal printing, subject to project review. Complex geometry, material availability, order quantity, and additional operations may extend the schedule. Heat treatment, HIP, surface finishing, and CNC machining require separate scheduling where applicable. Confirm the delivery date during quotation.
Do 3D printed parts require support structures?
Support requirements depend on the process and build orientation. FDM and SLA may require supports for overhangs and isolated features, and contact areas can retain marks after removal. SLS and MJF use surrounding powder to support parts during printing. Metal powder bed fusion typically requires supports for selected surfaces and thermal management. Orientation and support placement are reviewed during DFM.
What surface finishes are available for 3D printed parts?
Available 3D printing surface finish options depend on material and process. Polymer parts may receive sanding, polishing, dyeing, painting, or suitable media finishing. Metal parts may require support removal, blasting, polishing, or machining of functional surfaces. Define cosmetic expectations and any measurable roughness requirements in the RFQ.
Should I choose CNC machining or 3D printing?
CNC machining is often attractive for conventional geometries requiring precise machined surfaces and established stock materials. 3D printing can reduce tooling requirements and enable internal channels, lattices, and complex shapes. Neither process is universally faster or cheaper. Compare part geometry, material properties, tolerance requirements, quantity, post-processing, and total delivered cost before selecting a method.
Ready to Print Your Part?
Upload your STL or STEP file and get a quote within 12 hours. No tooling cost. Plastic parts in 1 to 5 days, metal parts in 5 to 10 days.
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