Custom 3D Printing Services

Core Definition: What is 3D Printing?

3D printing, also known as additive manufacturing, is a transformative technology that creates three-dimensional objects by sequentially layering materials based on a digital model. Unlike traditional subtractive manufacturing (cutting away material) or formative manufacturing (molding), it enables a direct transition from "design to physical object."

How It Works: Three Steps to Creation

1. 3D Modeling

Digital models are created using CAD software or 3D scanning (common formats: .STL, .OBJ).

2. Slicing

Specialized software horizontally slices the model into hundreds to thousands of two-dimensional cross-sections, generating machine-readable instruction codes (G-code).

3. Layer-by-Layer Printing

The printer follows the instructions to add materials layer by layer using specific technologies, ultimately stacking them into the final shape.

Technology Trends

1. Multi-Material Hybrid Printing

Enables integrated manufacturing of hard-soft combinations and gradient materials.

2. Large-Format High-Speed Printing

Advancements in construction 3D printing speed, with maximum print sizes exceeding 30 meters.

3. Intelligent Integration

AI-driven generative design, real-time print monitoring, and automated post-processing pipelines.

4. Sustainable Development

Recyclable materials, energy-efficient processes, and remanufacturing of used parts.

3D printing represents not only a revolution in manufacturing technology but also a comprehensive transformation of design thinking, business models, and supply chain systems. It is evolving from a "rapid prototyping tool" into a "means of end-use product manufacturing," driven by both personalized consumption and intelligent manufacturing, continuously expanding the boundaries of human production.

Core Advantages and Value of 3D Printing

Design Freedom

Enables the production of complex structures that are impossible with traditional processes, such as topology-optimized designs, internal flow channels, and lattice structures.

Rapid Iteration

Transforms designs into physical objects in just hours to days, accelerating R&D cycles by up to 70%.

Personalized Customization

Achieves "one-piece ordering" with minimal cost variation, ideal for medical implants and customized products.

Supply Chain Simplification

Supports distributed manufacturing and on-demand production, reducing reliance on inventory and logistics.

The Core Techniques of 3D printing

1. Before Printing: Model and Slicing Preparation

1.1-Model Check: Ensure the model is "watertight" (no holes or gaps) and use software for automatic repair if needed.

1.2-Optimal Orientation:

Place stress-bearing or smooth surfaces facing down or on their side.

Minimize overhangs to save support material.

1.3-Key Slicing Parameters:

Layer Height: Use 0.1–0.15mm for detail, 0.2–0.28mm for speed.

Infill Density: 15%–25% for general parts, 50%–80% for load-bearing parts.

Print Speed: Outer walls slow (30–50mm/s), infill faster (60–80mm/s).

Supports: Add when overhang angle >45°; prefer "tree supports" to save material.

2. During Printing: Machine and Material Control

2.1-Bed Leveling: The first critical step—ensure the nozzle height is even (slight resistance when sliding a piece of paper).

2.2-Temperature Control:

Nozzle: PLA at 190–220°C, ABS at 230–250°C.

Heated Bed: PLA at 50–60°C to prevent warping, ABS at 80–110°C.

2.3-Material Drying: Dry hygroscopic materials like nylon or PETG in a filament dryer before printing.

3. After Printing: Post-Processing and Improvement

Careful Support Removal: Use flush cutters and trim patiently from the base.

Surface Finishing: Sand and polish PLA; smooth ABS with acetone vapor.

Strength Enhancement: For load-bearing parts, increase nozzle temperature by 5–10°C or reduce print speed to improve layer adhesion.

4. Three Golden Rules

The First Layer Determines Success: Prioritize slow and precise first-layer adhesion.

Cooling in Moderation: Use fans for small PLA parts; turn them off for large ABS prints to prevent cracking.

Change One Parameter at a Time: When troubleshooting issues (e.g., stringing, layer lines), adjust only one variable per test.

Material Selection on 3D Printing

1. Plastics (Most Common)

PLA

Eco-friendly, easy to print, relatively brittle.

Suitable for: display models, educational tools.

ABS

Good strength, heat-resistant, but prone to shrinkage.

Suitable for: functional prototypes, enclosures.

PETG

Combines strength and toughness, chemical-resistant, food-safe.

Suitable for: containers, protective covers.

Nylon

High strength, wear-resistant (requires moisture protection).

Suitable for: gears, tools.

TPU (Flexible)

Excellent elasticity, impact-resistant.

Suitable for: gaskets, wearable devices.

2. Resins (High Precision)

Standard resin: Excellent detail, suitable for fine models.

Tough resin: Resistant to fracture, suitable for snap-fit parts.

High-temperature resin: Withstands 200°C+, suitable for prototypes of heat-generating components.

Dental/medical resin: Biocompatible, suitable for dental models, surgical guides.

3. Metals (Industrial Grade)

Stainless steel: Corrosion-resistant, used for parts, medical screws.

Titanium alloy: Lightweight and strong, used for aerospace components, artificial joints.

Aluminum alloy: Lightweight, good heat dissipation, used for automotive parts, drones.

High-temperature alloys: Withstand 850°C+, used for rocket engines.

4. Specialized Materials

Ceramics: High-temperature insulators, dental restorations.

Carbon fiber reinforced: Extremely light and strong, used for race cars, drones.

Concrete: Architectural structure printing.

Biomaterials: Hydrogels (tissue engineering), PEEK (advanced implants).

When selecting 3D printing materials, always consider three dimensions: requirements (strength/precision/heat resistance), process (printer compatibility), and cost.

3D Printing Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)