Upload your files for an instant 3D printing quote.
Please note there is a minimum 3D printing charge of $150. If your parts do not reach this price, a top-up fee will be applied when you proceed to checkout.
- Upload your file by dragging and dropping below or click on the “Browse Files” button
- Tick the radio button and then click the “Configure” Button
- Choose the Technology, Material, Colour, Infill and Precision as applicable
- Click “Proceed to Checkout” button
- Follow the onscreen prompts
To find out more about the available print processes and what will suit your application.
Fused Deposition Modelling (FDM) or Fused Filament Fabrication (FFF)
FDM or FFF is a 3D printing technique where a thermoplastic filament is heated and extruded through a nozzle, layer by layer, to create a 3D object.
Applications:
- Prototyping
- Draft models
- Low volume production where aesthetics are not crucial
- Jigs, fixtures and manufacturing aids
Advantages:
- Cost-Effective: FDM/FFF is one of the most economical 3D printing methods, making it an excellent choice for prototyping, draft models or low volume end use parts where aesthetics are not crucial.
- Real Thermoplastic Materials: Utilise a wide range of thermoplastic materials for a variety of mechanical and aesthetic properties.
- Durability: Objects printed with FDM can be quite strong and durable, especially when using certain materials.
Disadvantages:
- Lower Resolution: FDM prints have visible layer lines and may require post-processing for a smooth finish.
- Limited Complexity: Overhangs and complex geometries can be challenging to print without using dissolvable supports
- Material Warping: Certain materials can warp or shrink during cooling, affecting the print’s dimensional accuracy for some geometries. Large flat areas or long thin parts are most likely to be affected by this.
Stereolithography (SLA)
Stereolithography (SLA) is a resin-based 3D printing technology. It uses a laser to cure liquid resin into hardened plastic in a process called photopolymerization.
Applications:
- Prototyping
- Aesthetic presentation models
- Low volume production
- Jigs, fixtures and manufacturing aids
Advantages:
- High Resolution: SLA offers excellent resolution and surface finish, producing parts with fine details and a smooth surface.
- Precision: Ideal for applications requiring tight tolerances and intricate details. SLA is great for prototyping where .
- Material Properties: SLA resins can simulate a range of material properties, from very stiff rigid parts to flexible.
Disadvantages:
- Material limitations: SLA materials mimic real life thermoplastics so difficult to replicate the exact performance of a real life polymer.
- Cost: SLA materials are more expensive than FDM/FFF materials so printing costs are higher.
- Not UV stable: Due to the nature of the SLA process the materials are not UV stable. They can be post treated with sprays or paints which can protect from UV but this is not a service we offer.
Selective Laser Sintering (SLS)
Selective Laser Sintering (SLS) involves the use of a high-powered laser to fuse small particles of polymer powder into a solid structure.
Applications:
- Low volume production
- Prototyping
- Complex Geometries
- Jigs, fixtures and manufacturing aids
Advantages:
- Complex Geometries: SLS can print complex and intricate designs without the need for support structures.
- Strong and Functional Parts: The parts produced are robust and suitable for functional prototypes and end-use parts.
- Production ready: Parts can be stacked in X, Y and Z so lots of parts can be printed in the same build making it more efficient for printing batches. If you have a batch of parts to print please submit a request for us to give you the best pricing.
Disadvantages:
- Surface Texture: SLS prints have a slightly grainy surface and may require post-processing for a smooth finish.
- Limited Colour Options: We can only print in a dark Grey colour. Although parts can be sprayed or dyed starting as a dark colour makes it difficult to go to a lighter colour finish.
- Higher Cost: SLS materials are more expensive than FDM/FF materials and the processing time for one off parts is relatively high so can be expensive. However, printing multiple parts bring better cost efficiencies.
