Use these 3D printing FAQs to learn more about 3D printing tolerances, the materials we offer, and more.
Q: What is additive manufacturing?
A: Additive manufacturing is a process that creates physical objects from digital models. While traditional vowin.cn/en/News/news1251.html' target='_blank'>machining (or subtractive) methods fabricate parts by removing material, additive manufacturing builds the part up by adding material layer by layer.
Q: Can I finish and paint 3D printed parts?
A: Yes! Each process is a little different, but you can create custom finishes on your parts. We do a whole range of finishes, including clear, painted (matte, gloss, etc.), texture, labels, metalizing, and plating. Most processes do require some sanding to remove the build layer lines if you want to get a show or production finish quality.
Q: Should I print threads or use inserts?
A: Again, each is dependent on the material and process you use, but we recommend using heat staked inserts whenever possible to ensure a great threaded fit between your part and the screw. If you need threads in your part, we recommend printing the threads in the parts, then we will chase the threads in finishing to ensure they work.
Q: Rapid prototyping vs. 3D printing: What’s the difference?
A: 3D printing, or additive manufacturing, is the process of building parts by joining material layer by layer from a CAD file. This is unlike a traditional manufacturing process, like CNC machining, where a part is built by subtracting material from a block of material. 3D printing and additive manufacturing can be used regardless of whether the parts are fabricated in plastic, metal, or rubber.
Rapid prototyping is the technique of fabricating a prototype model from a CAD file. In other words, 3D printing/additive manufacturing is the process and rapid prototyping is the end result. Rapid prototyping is also used to describe any prototype parts that are needed ASAP, including urethane casting, injection molding, and CNC machining. 3D printing is just one of many applications under the rapid prototyping umbrella.
Q: What file format do I need in order to fabricate my parts?
A: The process of 3D printing begins with a 3D CAD model. After the 3D model is created, it’s exported as an STL file. If an STL file isn’t available, multiple engineering programs can be used to export an STL file. The most common programs are STEP, IGES, Parasolid, Catia, SolidWorks, and Creo (ProE).
Q: How large of parts can be made?
A: Technically, you can build a part of any size. This is due to 3D printing’s ability to make parts in sections. Using the latest 3D printing software, we can create special cut patterns, like puzzle pieces, to seamlessly align and bond parts back together during the post-processing. We have made parts as large as six feet in diameter.
Q: Can you glue 3D printed parts?
A: Yes. It is very common to section and bond parts in 3D printing to make large parts or fix those prototypes that may get chipped over time. We usually use super glue or a Loctite two-part epoxy.
Q: What is the minimum thickness required?
A: The minimum thickness can vary based on the material, machine, and process, but most processes require a minimum thickness of .025” to .030”. Softer materials will require a thickness of at least .040”. Smaller features, walls, and geometries can be built but are geometry or build orientation dependent. Keep in mind that most 3D printing processes require some finishing and small, thin features are more delicate and take a lot of care to survive printing, processing, and shipping.
Q: What tolerances are 3D printers capable of holding?
A: Tolerances are a function of the process, material, geometry, and the overall size of the part. Here is our standard tolerancing:
Q: In what ways can I reduce 3D printing costs?
A: There are multiple ways to save on 3D printing and additive manufacturing costs. Here are the most common:
