Question 1

What file format do I need to send to get a 3D printing quote?

Accepted Answer

STL, STEP (.stp) and OBJ are the most common. STEP is preferred because it preserves geometry and units accurately. If you only have IGES, SLDPRT, F3D or another native CAD format, we can usually work with it — mention what you have when uploading.

Question 2

Can I request a quote without a 3D file?

Accepted Answer

Yes. If you have a drawing, hand sketch, photo, physical sample or reference model, share it with dimensions and material intent. We reply with clarifying questions and, when needed, propose a scan-and-model service before manufacturing.

Question 3

How long does it take to receive a quote?

Accepted Answer

Typically 24-48 hours from a complete request. Complex geometries, tight tolerances, or unusual materials may need an extra day for engineering review.

Question 4

Is my file confidential?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We treat all files and drawings as confidential and can sign NDAs before you share anything. Files are stored on encrypted infrastructure and only shared with the machines and operators required to run the job.

Question 5

What materials can you print with?

Accepted Answer

Engineering polymers (PA12, PA11, PC, ABS, ASA, PETG, PLA, TPU), high-performance polymers (PEEK, PEKK, ULTEM 9085, ULTEM 1010, PC-carbon fiber), photopolymers (standard, tough, high-temp, castable), and metals via SLM/DMLS (316L stainless steel, Ti6Al4V titanium, AlSi10Mg aluminum). We suggest the right one for your part during the quote review.

Question 6

What's the difference between FDM, SLA, SLS, MJF and metal printing?

Accepted Answer

FDM extrudes molten plastic — good for cost-effective, larger, functional parts with visible layer lines. SLA cures photopolymer with UV — high detail, smooth surface, brittle. SLS and MJF sinter powdered nylon — strong, isotropic, powder-fill textured surface, no support structures. Metal (SLM/DMLS) fuses metal powder with laser — for structural, high-temp or complex geometry parts. We match process to intended use.

Question 7

Can 3D-printed parts be used for end-use industrial applications?

Accepted Answer

Yes, depending on process and material. PA12 (SLS/MJF), PC, PEEK, ULTEM and metal alloys are widely used in end-use functional parts across automotive, machinery, aerospace tooling, and industrial equipment. We're honest about when 3D printing isn't the right route — for high-volume identical parts, injection molding usually wins on unit cost.

Question 8

What tolerances can you hold?

Accepted Answer

Typical dimensional accuracy is ±0.3% (min ±0.3 mm) for polymer processes. Metal SLM parts are similar range with post-machining bringing critical features to ±0.05 mm. SLA achieves the tightest tolerances of polymer processes for small parts.

Question 9

What's the typical lead time from order to delivered part?

Accepted Answer

3-7 working days for standard polymer jobs (FDM, SLA, SLS, MJF) at moderate volumes. 7-14 days for metal printing due to post-processing. Small prototypes can ship in 24-72 hours for expedited quotes. Large short-runs (500+ units) require case-by-case scheduling.

Question 10

Do you produce short-run production (10-1000 units)?

Accepted Answer

Yes — short-run production is one of our main uses. We batch identical parts across our machines and quote based on unit count. Between roughly 20-500 units, additive is usually more cost-effective than injection molding once tooling is factored in.

Question 11

Can you help if my part is a broken spare and I only have the damaged piece?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Send photos with a ruler for scale, a physical sample if you can mail one, or basic overall dimensions. We can reverse-engineer to CAD, or produce directly from the sample scan if the geometry is workable. Great for obsolete machinery parts and MRO applications.

Question 12

What if I need many identical parts?

Accepted Answer

We handle from 1 to a few thousand identical units. For very high volumes (5,000+) we'll advise on whether additive is still the right economic choice or whether injection molding tooling starts to make sense. We won't push additive if it's not the buyer's best answer.

Question 13

Can I request post-processing (painting, polishing, dyeing, threaded inserts)?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Common options: bead blasting, dyeing (SLS/MJF nylon), vapor smoothing (ABS, ASA), light sanding + primer, heat-set metal threaded inserts, painting to spec. Mention what you need in the quote request.

Question 14

Do you ship internationally?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we ship worldwide via standard courier services. Lead times to Europe are typically 1-3 business days after production; other regions 3-7 days. For urgent orders, expedited air freight is available on request.

Question 15

What happens if a part doesn't meet the spec?

Accepted Answer

We inspect critical dimensions before shipping. If a part is out of spec on documented dimensions, we reprint at our cost. For subjective issues (surface finish, colour tone) we work with you to define an acceptable standard on future orders.

Straight answers about ordering 3D-printed parts

Sending us a request

Choosing the right method

How production works

Finishing, shipping and quality

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