Applications: Working prototypes, part strengthening, architectural models, complex scale models and medical parts

✓    Detailed and high-quality print

✓    Smooth surface finish

✓    No need for additional support when print overhangs

SLS printing uses a print bed covered with a white nylon powder. Certain areas of the print bed are melted by a laser to ‘colour in’ the areas required for printing. The layer drops by 0.1mm before being re-coated for another layer of print. This creates far fewer visible layer lines compared to other prints. The surface can be polished to create a smooth texture and the white nylon can also be dyed or painted, if required.

Applications: Anatomical models, large investment cast patterns, lightweight concept models, urethane casting patterns

✓    High resolution parts with a smooth surface finish

✓    Offers great design flexibility

✓    Creates accurate moulds ideal for mass production

Commonly used for additive manufacturing, SLA printing creates the desired 3D shape via a laser that hardens liquid resin inside of a reservoir. Layer-by-layer, photosensitive liquid is essentially turned into solid plastic through use of a low-power laser and photo-polymerisation. If you are looking for prototyping in London talk to our team to see if this is the solution for you.

Applications: Manufacturing aids, low volume production parts, Jigs and fixtures, functional prototypes

✓    Cost-effective and high quality

✓    Range of colours and materials available

✓    Able to withstand heat, chemicals and mechanical stress

When FDM printing is used, it requires a thermoplastic material to be forced out after reaching melting point, which then allows it to create a 3D shape layer-by-layer. Once each layer is completed, the printer nozzle is lowered to allow the next plastic layer to be added. It also uses a ‘scaffolding’ material during the process to help with stabilisation and once the object has been created, the supporting materials can be removed.

Applications: Presentation models, flexible rubber-like models, prototypes for fittings, valves and parts with complex interior features

✓    Creates complex shape and details

✓    Prints a variety of material properties and colours

✓    Allows for production of flexible buttons and grips

Polyjet printing works by solidifying thousands of photopolymer droplets that have been jetted onto a build platform by using a UV light. In some regards it is comparable to standard ink jet printing and is widely regarded as one of the fastest and most accurate 3D printing technologies available today, making it perfect for use with prototype development.