WHat's the best method for your project

3D Printing Method Guidelines

We provide both FDM and SLA 3D printing technologies, allowing parts to be produced across a wide range of sizes, strengths, and surface finishes. Each method offers specific advantages depending on the application, material requirements, and level of detail needed.

Understanding these differences helps ensure the right process is selected for reliable, production-grade results.

FDM (Fused Deposition Modelling)
Functional parts, engineering components, and larger production pieces.

FDM printing produces parts by extruding melted thermoplastic filament layer by layer to form the final geometry. This method supports a wide range of engineering plastics, including ABS, ASA, PETG, Nylon, PC, and composite materials.

SLA (Stereolithography)
High-detail parts, smooth finishes, and precision components.

SLA printing uses liquid photopolymer resin cured by light to produce parts with extremely fine detail and smooth surface quality. This process is ideal when accuracy and surface finish are critical. SLA technology is widely recognised for producing high-resolution, precise parts suitable for prototyping and end-use applications.

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Fused Deposition Modelling (FDM)

Advantages

  • Excellent mechanical strength
  • Suitable for functional and load-bearing components
  • Cost-effective for larger parts
  • Wide range of engineering-grade materials
  • Scalable for prototype through to production

Typical Applications

  • Product enclosures
  • Mechanical components
  • Mounting brackets and fixtures
  • Jigs and tooling
  • Functional prototypes

Build Sizes

  • Standard FDM: up to ~250 × 250 × 250 mm
  • Large format FDM: up to ~500 × 500 × 600 mm
  • Multiple parts can be produced concurrently across our print farm for volume orders

This allows production of both small precision components and large structural parts.

Stereolithography (SLA)

Advantages

  • Very high dimensional accuracy
  • Smooth surface finish
  • Excellent small-feature resolution
  • Ideal for complex geometries

Typical Applications

  • Precision housings
  • Visual prototypes
  • Detailed functional components
  • Medical, Dental, laboratory, and research parts

Build Sizes

  • Small to medium precision components
  • Standard up to 200 × 125 × 210 mm
  • On request up to 353 x 196 x 350 mm

Larger parts can be produced as assemblies if required