3D printing technology’s capital-intensive nature makes pairing up with a 3D printing service the best option for most businesses. However, finding the right one is not easy, especially with so many options out there. Here are some tips to help you find the best 3D printing partner.
Technologies Available
Most businesses consider working with a 3D printing solutions partner to get access to various 3D printing technologies. You want to ensure the 3D printing service you choose has expertise in multiple 3D printing technologies. That way, you can be sure you’re getting the best technology that will help you get the most out of your 3D printing project.
The most common 3D printing technologies include Fused Deposition Modelling (FDM), stereolithography (SLA), color jet printing, Digital Light Processing (DLP), polyjet printing, Selective Laser Sintering (SLS), Molten Polymer Deposition (MPD) and Fused Filament Fabrication (FFF).
Materials Available
Different materials are suitable for different 3D printing technologies. Choose a 3D printing service provider with experience working with various types of 3D printing materials that match your project’s requirements.
For instance, most 3D printing service providers usually work with polymer materials such as ABS, nylon, PEEK filaments, PLA, and PETG for FDM technology. They also use tough, high-temperature, flexible, biocompatible, and castable resins for SLA and DLP technology.
On the other hand, top-rated 3D printing service providers use steel, nickel, titanium, copper, and precious metals for metal technologies such as Direct Metal Laser Sintering (DMLS) and Selective Laser Melting (SLM).
Design Assistance Options
Every 3D printing process begins with an engineer designing a model that will later be transformed into a solid object. However, 3D printing is different from traditional design. Even though most designs can be 3D printed, not all should be 3D printed. This means some designs will not yield the best results if 3D printed.
The right 3D printing service should understand the Design for Additive Manufacturing (DFAM) principles and recommend design modifications that will guarantee the model’s compatibility with 3D printing. This will help save the client time, money, and material. It will also ensure that the finished product matches your specifications in terms of durability, efficiency, and reliability.
Your budget
Different 3D printing companies charge different prices depending on what you’re getting. You’ll definitely pay more if you need help with design and 3D printing. The best way to find an affordable 3D printing service provider that will meet your project’s needs is by shopping around.
However, do not settle for a cheap 3D printing solutions partner without considering the quality of their services. If you compromise on quality to save money, you could end up with a subpar product that can risk your brand’s reputation.
The good news is that you can always negotiate the price, especially when a high-quality product is involved. This can be done during your meeting with the 3D printing service provider.
Track Record
Whether you have a one-off or long-term 3D printing project, it’s important to consider the 3D service provider’s track record and reputation. Before working with a 3D printing service provider, look up Google reviews and testimonials.
You’ll learn what past customers think about the provider’s services, after-sales support, and professionalism. You should only consider partnering with a 3D printing service provider after learning about their reputation.
Choosing the Right 3D Printing Service
Now that you better understand how to find the right 3D printing service, it’s time to take your business operations to the next level. By working with a reliable 3D printing service provider, your business will save money on prototyping, speed up the manufacturing process, increase sales, and reduce overhead costs.
