3d Printing 101

3D printing is known for its ability to help with rapid prototyping fabrication or additive manufacturing.  It is typically known as a low volume production and prototyping process.  This process basically lays down a layer of material in the shape as the model.  Once the first layer is complete, the printer starts the next layer and continues this process until the model is complete.  There are many videos on YouTube that explain how all of this works.....Search FDM 3D Printing

A digital 3D-model is created using 3D CAD software and then converted to G-code using a slicer.  The G-code is then sent to a 3D printer.  The 3D printer then uses the G-code to guide the extruder/s to lay down the materials per the design.  This is performed layer by layer and form the model once complete.

FDM 3D printing offers the the maker a great platform to create something from a thought.  Many items can be made with a 3D printer. Complex items may be more easily create using more capable 3D printers.  There are many home/consumer based printers that range from $300 - $1000 (Prusa, Creality, Longer, AnyCubic, etc...) These printers are best used for materials such as PLA other simple materials.  When you want to create using more technical prints using ABS, Nylon and more technical materials printer prices go up drastically.

Rigid Materials: Nylon, ABS, PETG, PLA, Polycarbonate.

Flexible Materials: TPU, TPE

Dissolvable Material such as HIPS or PVA

Composite Materials such as Glass or Carbon Filled ABS, Nylon, PETG and PLA (we do not offer continuous strand Carbon Fiber printing at this time.

We use several different printers based on size of the part and materials needed. Our Raise3D Pro3 is much better suited for more technical materials than some of our other printers. We also have a Prusa MK3s+ and we are building a Voron. We also have a 5 head Prusa XL Pre-ordered as we hope to offer 5 color or multi material prints that do not generate a ton of waste.

No, 3d Printing is not known for being fast.  Some printers are faster than others as well.  One of our printers is a Raise3d Pro3 with a HyperSpeed kit which enables some prints with specific materials to be printed at much higher speed while still printing with great detail and quality.  Size, complexity, layer height, infill density and materials are key points that control how long a print will take  A higher resolution (layer height) print will take much longer, but will look smoother.  For rapid proto typing many customers choose a lower resolution print if surface finish is not as important on initial prototypes and then request final prototype or end use parts at a higher resolution. 

This is a common question, however is it not possible to provide you with an answer without reviewing the model and discussing material options.  We charge based on amount of material consumed and time required to print your specific model.  This allows us to provide transparent pricing.  We do not have hidden fees.

Fine, delicate or fragile features can be difficult with FDM 3D printing technology.  We understand the need for these features and do our best to ensure they are printed successfully.  We will identify fragile or delicate features and provide you with advice on how you may want to modify your design for a successful printing. If you do choose to have us print parts which we feel are too fragile and delicate, we will not be held liable for them breaking as we manipulate the parts post-print.  Talk to us about the options we can offer you to help ensure we supply you with the best experience and 3D printed parts.