Processes we Offer
FDM
FDM is the traditional 3D printed plastic that most people are familiar with. However unlike hobbyist machines that are capable of little more than PETG, we have machines capable of printing high temperature ultra-polymers like PEI, PEKK, and PEEK. Additionally, we have machines sized up to 1M^3 for very large component production and machines that can print fully custom material supplied by our customers (in the form of pellets).
Pro’s
Cost effective, large build volume, wide range of material properties, able to use infill, and wide range of color options for most materials
Resin
Con’s
Reduced Z strength, layer line surface finish, and unable to achieve very high details
Resin printing offers some significant advantages over FDM printing, along with some drawbacks. We have multiple resin processes to work with. SLA/MSLA is the more typical resin printing with an upside down build plate and a clear bottomed vat of resin, while MicroDLP uses a tank of resin with a projection system from above to achieve higher details (in a smaller volume). Polyjet is a process where resin is sprayed into place before instantly curing, much like an inkjet printer with repeated passes to build a part.
Pro’s
Extremely high resolution, smooth surface finish, non-thermoplastic (un-meltable), tough and stiff varieties available, and available in nearly any color
SLS
Con’s
Not UV stable, not safe for contact near food, can be brittle and prone to fatigue (with our non-duroprene materials), and no partial infill (hollowing available)
SLS is a variety of printing that fuses an ultra fine plastic powder into a solid part using a high powered laser. This results in extremely high strength nylon parts that have a matte black slightly rough appearance, similar to that of a powder coated component. This makes SLS ideal for consumer facing parts that need to look professional and high quality, if you weren’t told these parts were printed you would never know!
Pro’s
Extreme strength, excellent matte surface finish, and high durability
Con’s
Not available in multiple colors (black only), less cost effective, prone to warping with extremely small features, and no partial infill (hollowing available)
Don’t know which process is right for you?
Search by qualities below to find a specific material and process that fits your needs.