3D Printing Materials

For functional prototypes, we recommend MJF PA12 or SLS Nylon. These materials offer production-like mechanical properties, excellent dimensional stability, and can handle stress testing. MJF PA12 provides slightly better surface finish and accuracy (±0.3mm), while SLS Nylon is more cost-effective for larger parts. Both materials are ideal for testing snap-fits, living hinges, and mechanical assemblies.

Choose SLA resin when surface quality is critical - for client presentations, photography, or detailed features smaller than 2mm. SLA provides mirror-smooth finishes and exceptional detail resolution. Choose FDM when you need larger parts (>200mm), faster turnaround, or mechanical durability for handling. FDM is also more cost-effective for multiple iterations and concept validation where perfect surface finish isn't required.

Yes, MJF PA12 and high-grade SLS materials can serve as bridge production parts for quantities up to several hundred units. These materials offer production-grade mechanical properties and consistent quality. This approach is particularly valuable when you need parts immediately while injection mold tooling is being manufactured (typically 6-12 weeks). We can help you evaluate if your design and volume requirements make 3D printing a viable bridge solution.

Post-processing options vary by material: SLA parts can be sanded, primed, and painted to achieve injection-molded appearance. SLS/MJF parts can be dyed (limited colors), media blasted for smoothness, or machined for critical features. FDM parts can be vapor smoothed (ABS), sanded, painted, or machined. We also offer thread tapping, inserts installation, and assembly services to deliver ready-to-test prototypes.

MJF PA12 closely matches injection molded Nylon properties (tensile strength ~50 MPa). SLS Nylon is similar but with slightly lower impact resistance. SLA resins are brittle compared to production plastics but excellent for dimensional validation. FDM ABS has comparable strength to injection molded ABS but with anisotropic properties due to layer adhesion. We provide detailed material data sheets to help you correlate prototype performance with production material expectations.

We accept STL, STEP, STP, IGS, and native CAD files (SolidWorks, Fusion 360, etc.). For optimal results: maintain minimum wall thickness of 0.8mm for SLA, 1.2mm for SLS/MJF, and 1.6mm for FDM. Avoid overhangs >45° for FDM, design escape holes for powder removal in SLS parts, and consider support removal access for SLA. We provide free design review and optimization suggestions with every quote to ensure your parts print successfully and meet your functional requirements.