3D Printing Services

A 3D-printed part starts life as a digital 3D CAD file that specifies the shape, dimensions and features that will be incorporated into it. The CAD file is fed into a software tool called a slicer that converts it into layers. This translates it into a format that a 3D printer can follow to build the part, layer by layer.

One thing that all 3D printing technologies have in common is that they build parts one layer at a time. Raw materials may be powder or filament. Lasers, UV light or precision jetting may be used to deposit each layer of material onto a build table. As each layer of the part is completed, the  table moves down slightly so the next layer can be built on top of it.

Most 3D-printed parts require post-processing to prepare them for use. Support structures need to be removed. Parts produced using powder bed technology need to be excavated from the unused material. Many 3D-printed plastic parts need to be media blasted to give them a smooth finish. Metal parts need to be cut off of a build plate and may require media blasting or post-machining.