Question 1

What should I upload for a prototype 3D printing quote?

Accepted Answer

Upload 3D CAD (STEP preferred) and any drawings defining CTQs (datums, mating faces, functional clearances, hole requirements), target finish (as-printed vs cosmetic), target quantity, and your prototype intent (fit-check, functional, cosmetic, pilot).

Question 2

Which process should I choose: FDM, SLA/DLP, or SLS/MJF?

Accepted Answer

Choose based on intent: FDM is fastest/cost-effective for iteration, SLA/DLP is best for smooth/high detail cosmetics, and SLS/MJF is best for durable nylon functional parts without supports. If metal behavior is required, consider metal additive with CTQ post-ops.

Question 3

Can you hit tight fits and hole tolerances on prototypes?

Accepted Answer

Many functional fits work well with proper clearance design. For CTQ holes or alignment faces, we plan secondary ops like drilling/reaming or light machining to improve assembly repeatability. Use our ***ISO 2768 chart***(/resources/charts/iso-2768-tolerance-chart) and ***tap drill calculator***(/resources/tools/drill-tap-chart) when specifying mating features.

Question 4

Do prototypes need post-processing?

Accepted Answer

Often yes. Support removal, resin wash/cure, depowdering (powder-bed), and cosmetic cleanup affect fit and surface. We align post-processing to your prototype intent and clearance strategy.

Question 5

What drives cost in prototype 3D printing?

Accepted Answer

Key drivers include part volume/complexity, material/process choice, build time, finishing requirements, and whether CTQ interfaces need inserts or secondary machining.

Question 6

Can you run small pilot sets after prototypes?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Once a design converges, we can lock key parameters (process, material, orientation/supports, finishing) and produce pilot sets with improved repeatability and CTQ verification.

Prototype3D Printing

Prototype3D Printing