Shop, Development and prototyping

0
0.00 

blog

Which 3D Printing Method Is Right for Your Project?

FDM (Fused Deposition Modeling)

How it works: FDM printing uses a heated nozzle to melt and extrude thermoplastic filament, layer by layer, to build your part.

Materials we use: PLA, PETG, ABS, ASA, TPU

Material characteristics:

  • PLA: Rigid, easy to print, biodegradable, low heat resistance

  • PETG: Tough, slightly flexible, chemical-resistant, glossy finish

  • ABS: Strong and impact-resistant, good for functional parts, heat-tolerant

  • ASA: UV-stable and weather-resistant, ideal for outdoor use

  • TPU: Flexible, rubber-like, shock-absorbing

Best for: Prototypes, mechanical parts, functional components, and general-purpose printing.

Pros:

  • Cost-effective and fast

  • Wide range of materials

  • Dimensional tolerance <0.3mm, except on overhangs and support surfaces

Cons:

  • Visible layer lines

  • Lower resolution than resin-based printing

  • Rough overhang and support surfaces

SLA (Stereolithography)

How it works: SLA uses a UV laser to cure liquid photopolymer resin into solid layers, producing highly detailed prints with a smooth surface finish.

Materials we use: Standard resin, ABS-like resin, Flexible resin, Castable resin

Material characteristics:

  • Standard resin: High detail, brittle under mechanical stress

  • ABS-like resin: More durable and heat resistant, good for functional parts

  • Flexible resin: Elastic, rubber-like feel, ideal for soft-touch parts

Best for: Jewelry, figurines, detailed models, artistic prototypes, Low volume models

Pros:

  • Extremely high resolution

  • Excellent surface finish

  • Ideal for small, precise models

Cons:

  • Resins are more fragile than thermoplastics

  • Higher cost per print

  • Difficulties with high volume models and large flat surfaces with thin walls

SLS (Selective Laser Sintering)

How it works: A laser fuses powdered thermoplastic (usually nylon) into solid layers, with no support structures required.

Materials we use: PA12 Nylon, Glass-filled Nylon, TPU powder

Material characteristics:

  • PA12: Lightweight, durable, impact-resistant

  • Glass-filled nylon: Stiffer, more heat resistant, ideal for technical application

  • TPU powder: Flexible, suitable for shock-absorbing or wearable parts

Best for: Strong functional parts, enclosures, mechanical assemblies

Pros:

  • No support structures needed

  • Durable, production-grade parts

  • Handles complex internal geometries

Cons:

  • Industrial-grade pricing

  • Powder handling requires special setup

MJF (Multi Jet Fusion)

How it works: MJF uses inkjet arrays to deposit fusing agents onto powder, then applies heat to bond the layers quickly and evenly.

Materials we use: PA12, PA11

Material characteristics:

  • PA12: Strong, accurate, excellent dimensional stability, matte finish

  • PA11: Tougher and more flexible, better impact resistance

Best for: Batch production, engineering components, functional testing

Pros:

  • Very fast and scalable

  • Great detail and strength

  • Excellent for production-quality parts

Cons:

  • High-end equipment and setup required

  • Limited to nylon-based materials