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3D printing and manufacturing blog
Discover the latest developments in 3D printing, production technologies and materials. From SLA to MJF, from prototyping to series production.
What does 3D printing cost?
How the price of a 3D print is built up: volume × material price. With starting prices per technology, worked examples and tips to save.
FDM vs SLA: the difference
Filament or resin? How they work, surface, strength, materials and prices compared, and when to choose which.
MJF vs SLS: the difference
Two powder technologies for PA12 nylon side by side: process, surface, colour, materials and price. Plus when to choose MJF or SLS.
Photo: Università di Pavia, CC BY 2.0Titanium and metal 3D printing with SLM
Which metals can you print, what to watch in your design and what it costs per cm³? Plus: when CNC machining is the better choice.
What does vacuum casting cost?
Master, silicone mould, quantity, size and PU material: how the price of vacuum casting comes together, and when it pays off.
3D printing or injection moulding?
No mould versus a mould plus a low unit price: how to work out the volume at which injection moulding pays off, and which bridge options sit in between.
Transparent 3D printing
See-through parts in Clear Resin: from translucent to clear after polishing or lacquering, with design tips and price.
PLA, PETG or ABS?
Which FDM filament should you choose? The three compared on heat, impact, outdoor use and finishing, with a worked example.
3D printing in machine building
Gripper fingers, jigs, spares for obsolete machines and stainless brackets: which technology fits and what it costs, with worked examples.
3D printed electronics enclosures
Small-run enclosures, light pipes, flexible buttons and look-alike models, plus design tips for snap-fits, inserts and ventilation.
Product development with 3D printing
From sketch to first run: look-alike model, presentation model, functional prototype and first batch, with the right technology and a worked example per stage.
SLA vs SLS: which 3D printing technology to choose?
A comprehensive comparison of SLA and SLS 3D printing technologies. Discover the differences in quality, speed, materials and applications.
Complete guide to 3D printing materials
From PLA to PEEK: everything you need to know about 3D printing materials. Properties, applications and tips for the best result.
MJF 3D printing: a revolution in production
Multi Jet Fusion (MJF) is transforming 3D printing. Discover why MJF is the future for functional parts and series production.
3D printing in the medical sector
How 3D printing is transforming the medical world. From prototypes to implants, discover the revolutionary applications.
Post-processing: from print to perfect product
Post-processing determines the quality of your 3D printed parts. Learn the essential techniques for professional results.
Design for additive manufacturing (DfAM)
Design specifically for 3D printing with DfAM principles. Maximise the benefits of additive manufacturing in your designs.
CNC machining: precision in production
Discover how CNC machining offers unrivalled precision for metal and plastic machining. From prototypes to series production.
Laser cutting: speed and precision
Laser cutting is revolutionising sheet metal processing. Learn about CO2, fibre and UV lasers and their applications in various materials.
Injection moulding: ideal for series production
Injection moulding is the standard for high volumes. Discover materials, design considerations and cost-effective production.
Sheet metal forming: traditional techniques
From bending to punching: sheet metal techniques for durable metal components. Learn about tooling and material selection.
Waterjet cutting: unrivalled precision
Waterjet cuts all materials without heat impact. Discover pure and abrasive waterjet cutting for complex geometries.
Die cutting: efficient forming
Die-cutting techniques for paper, cardboard and plastic. From simple shapes to complex designs at high speed and precision.
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