SLS
SLA
FDM
Frequently Asked Questions
How does 3D printing work?
The exact methodology depends on the printer’s technology. All 3D printers build parts in layers, either by depositing or solidifying material on top of previous layers.
What are the benefits of 3D printing?
3D printers can help SMEs reduce lead times and material costs in prototyping and small-batch part production. They enable great design freedom by producing shapes conventional manufacturing can’t create. 3D printers can help you unlock new business opportunities with different materials and faster time to market.
Which 3D printing technology should I choose?
Your choice of 3D printing technology depends on your intended application. Some printers perform better in prototyping than in end-use production, and vice versa. The experts at Solid Print3D can help you find a technology that suits your SME.
Is there a difference between “3D printing” and “additive manufacturing”?
Technically, no. Additive manufacturing is an umbrella term that covers multiple 3D technologies, including 3D printing. Other technologies that fall under additive manufacturing include 3D scanning and CAD design.
Are 3D printed parts as good as conventionally manufactured parts?
3D printing is a tool like any other in that it suits certain applications better than others. But 3D printing can create more complex part geometries than traditional tooling or manufacturing. Some plastic 3D printing materials can also offer comparable or better mechanical characteristics than traditional metal while significantly lowering part weight.
Expert Advice
We offer honest advice, best in class products and world class support allowing us to become a trusted partner to many UK & Ireland businesses. For all sales, product information or pricing enquiries, please fill out the form below and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible.
Companies Using Our Printers
Why Solid Print3D?
At Solid Print3D, we aim to provide you with the best service possible in the purchase and support of your 3D Printer. Whether you require training, technical advice or additional support regarding the operation of your new printer, we will be there to help with our team of 3D printing experts on hand.
World Class Support
We provide world-class support from our in-house 3D printing experts, to make sure that the experience you have with your new 3D printer is as seamless as possible.
Training in 3D Printing
We also offer training in how to fully utilise your new 3D printer, with courses available for FDM/FFF and SLA printing.
Choosing the right 3D Printer for your business?
Whether this is your first foray into 3D Printing, or if you are a 3D Printing veteran, choosing the right printer for your requirements can be a daunting task. With new acronyms appearing every week and the industry rapidly evolving it can be difficult to understand the technology, systems, materials, mechanical properties and surface finishes and which methodology is going to work best for you. Below we list some typical questions you will need to think about:
What is the Maximum size I will need to print?
Printers come in all shapes & sizes. One of the first questions you should ask yourself is, what is the largest part i will need to print” and “am i happy gluing smaller parts together?” Our printers have varying build volumes from a 200mm cube to a full 1m cube and getting this right will save you money & time.
My product needs specific mechanical properties.
The 3D Printing industry is moving at an ever-increasing pace, but the biggest strides are being made with a variety of materials now available. Will you part need to withstand a load, withstand high temperatures, work in an abrasive environment, withstand UV light, or is it just a quick prototype to test the aesthetics? From everyday PLA to Continuous Carbon Fibre or even Metal printing we can advise you on the best material & technology for your needs.
My part needs to be highly detailed.
The surface finish on 3D Printed parts is getting better with every new generation of printers & the advances being made with material science. Typically SLA (Stereolithography) produces a better, most consistent finish than FDM but this comes at a slightly higher cost with materials. FDM printers are good enough for most applications these days but for an “injection moulded” look & feel, SLA is your go-to technology.
What is the lifetime cost of a 3D Printer?
Typically a 3D printer is costed over a 3 year period. The ROI (return on Investment) can vary depending upon the application but it’s not uncommon to see a 3D Printer producing production parts pay for itself within 3 months. If you are currently outsourcing 3D Printing, want to check fit & function, or just rapidly iterate you design without lengthy lead times, 3D Printing is a tool that saves businesses time & money every day.