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What Is 3D Printing?

3D Printing (also known as rapid prototyping), is an automated, additive process that builds a solid part, layer by layer, directly from a 3D CAD file (computer aided drawing file) without the need to produce molds. 3D printing can be used to create products mostly made from a hard substance such as plastic, metal or even rubber-like materials.

3D Prototype Design’s preferred method is SLS (Selective Laser Sintering), as it’s the only process that provides durable, functional and testable nylon prototypes that will give you a final product as close as possible to an injection molded part without creating a mold. Parts can be tapped, drilled, snap-fit, assembled, painted, sterilized and tested in a way that no other 3D printed pieces can.

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Getting Started With
3D Printing

3D printing is an amazing process that offers designers the opportunity to build parts quickly and economically. Having said that, there are some key factors to keep in mind if you are new to this technology.

3D Printing, A Few Basics:

3D CAD File Is Required First

In order to quote or make a part, 3D printing first requires a 3D CAD (computer aided drawing) file of your idea. Researching or ball-parking the cost of 3D printing before a CAD drawing is really putting the cart before the horse, since you can’t actually build a 3D printed part without a CAD file. If you don’t have a CAD file, you should start by consulting with a mechanical engineer or designer to see what the costs associated are with that first. The cost to have 3D CAD drawings often exceeds the price of 3D printing.
3D printing can only build what you supply in the 3D CAD file. For example, if you have many pieces within the file not attached to one another, then your prototype will be built in pieces. If they are attached within the file, it will build as one solid part. If there are mistakes, those will be in your parts too.

Each offer their own pros and cons such as different materials,  features and costs. To use your prototyping dollars wisely, it’s ideal to become familiar with the various 3D printing options and find the one that best suits your requirements

3D printing can only make parts in the materials each respective machine uses, such as plastics, resins, metal, etc. Wood, fabric, wires, glass and other materials are not currently available. Unfortunately, 3D printing technology is not at Star Trek’s level of sophistication (yet!) and cannot include everything in one shot. For example, if you were making a new electronics device, only the shell would be 3D printed in plastic and after (with another supplier or on your own), you would install the electrical components to make your final prototype.

The final finish of a 3D printed part will depend on the process and material used. Most processes require some type of post finishing in order to make parts with smooth surfaces or to add colour. Patterned, textured surfaces or effects are not a part of the 3D printing process. For example, 3D printed parts cannot be built with a textured wood grain or stainless steel looking finish.

If you are looking to replace a part that is currently being manufactured such as a radio button or car part, you’re best off to buy it. 3D printing one replacement part is rarely economical, as you would have to spend money on your 3D CAD file drawing, pay for the cost of your 3D printed part and possibly have to compromise on the final quality (and safety) as compared to the manufacturer’s part.

Although 3d printing is an amazing process, it’s not always the right application for every project or product. Often very large components or items that require specific materials are not 3D printing candidates. Having a basic understanding of 3D printing technology and its capabilities will better help you to determine if it’s an option you can take advantage of.

If you are unsure of what you need, what steps to take next or if 3D printing is right for your project, contact us and we’ll be happy to quickly answer your questions and see if 3D printing is right for your project.

“I wanted to let you know that the parts arrived this morning and they are great. Thank you for getting them done so quickly.”

Chris A., Mountain View, CA, USA

“In my mind 3D Prototype is the only source for rapid prototyping!”

Paul C., Vancouver, BC, Canada

“I received the 3D printed samples on Tuesday, and have everything in order for my customers visit this coming week. Thank you and your team for the quick response.”

Martin F., Trenton ON, Canada

“My prototype just arrived -— fantastic result — very pleased. Thanks again for the follow up — will be in touch as my project progresses.”

Carmen H., Portage la Prairie, MB, Canada

“Got the part. Looks cool! Very pleased with the way it came out. Thanks much, and for the quick turn-around!”

Andy G., Landisville, PA, USA

FAQs
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What do I need to make a 3D printed part?

In order to quote or make a 3D printed part, you need to have a 3D CAD file drawing created. We do not offer drawing or scanning services. If you don’t have a CAD drawing of your part you should find a mechanical engineer/design to draw your part. See what is 3d printing.

We’ve built parts for as low as $3 per piece and up, when building multiples. However, each case is unique and dependent on several factors such as: size, area, volume, material used, time to build, commitment to area taken up, labor and what else we can build with it. Our minimum charge is $100.
We don’t like to ballpark pricing unless it’s coming from an existing customer. A guess can sometimes be made, however, you will need a CAD file to move forward and it’s very likely the cost of hiring someone to do the drawing may very well be more than your prototype. Asking how much something the size of a mug or computer mouse will cost rarely offers any value. Start by looking at the cost to get your CAD drawing first to see if that’s cost prohibitive for you.
Hire a mechanical engineer or mechanical designer as they can create 3D CAD drawings. In addition, their education and experience will be valuable later should you manufacture your parts.

We sure can. Whether is a scaled down model for a trade show or for a sales meeting, our 3d printed models can’t be beat! There are some very important things you should quick read first though to better understand what you need to know about 3d printing and your scaled down model.

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