MATERIA

Technologies

What we use and why.

Each technology has its strengths and limits. This overview helps you understand what suits your part. If you are not sure, we will advise you.

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FDM

FDM 3D printing

A heated nozzle melts plastic filament and deposits it layer by layer according to the 3D model.

Suited to

  • Prototypes and functional parts
  • Larger parts
  • Fixtures and plastic spare parts

Limits

  • Layers are visible on the surface
  • Strength is higher along the layers
  • Fine details are limited
MaterialsPLAPETGABSASATPU
Service: 3D printingWhat FDM is and when it pays off
02 / 06

SLA

SLA 3D printing

UV light cures liquid photopolymer resin in a vat, layer by layer.

Suited to

  • Fine details and a smooth surface
  • Presentation models and samples
  • Small components

Limits

  • Resin parts tend to be more brittle
  • Parts need post-processing
  • Not suitable for heavy mechanical loads
MaterialsResins
Service: 3D printingSLA and SLS: when FDM is not enough
03 / 06

SLS

SLS 3D printing

A laser sinters fine nylon powder. The surrounding powder supports the part, so no support structures are needed.

Suited to

  • Strong functional parts
  • Complex shapes and internal cavities
  • Smaller series

Limits

  • The surface is slightly grainy
  • Higher cost than FDM
MaterialsNylon PA12
Service: 3D printingSLA and SLS: when FDM is not enough
04 / 06

CNC

CNC milling

A rotating tool removes material from a solid block according to a digital model.

Suited to

  • Metal and strong parts
  • Precise fits and a smooth surface
  • Moulds and fixtures

Limits

  • Complex internal shapes are limited
  • Changing the model means a new CNC program
MaterialsAluminiumBrassPOMAcrylic glassWood
Service: CNC millingCNC milling: when it is better than 3D printing
05 / 06

LASER

Laser engraving and cutting

A focused laser beam either vaporises the surface (engraving) or cuts through the material (cutting).

Suited to

  • Personalisation and marking
  • Shaped cut-outs and templates
  • Lettering, logos and panels

Limits

  • Does not create 3D objects
  • With thick materials the cut may be slightly angled
MaterialsWoodAcrylicLeatherMetal (surface)GlassPaper
Service: Laser engravingLaser: what can be made
06 / 06

SCAN

3D scanning

A structured-light scanner turns a physical object into a digital model.

Suited to

  • Reverse engineering
  • Inspection of parts against CAD
  • Digitisation of objects

Limits

  • Shiny and transparent surfaces need preparation
  • A CAD model has to be created from the scan before it can be edited
Service: 3D scanningA spare part without a drawing

Comparison

Which technology suits what.

TechnologyMaterialsSurfaceBest for
FDMPlastics (wide choice)Visible layersPrototypes, larger parts
SLAResinsSmoothDetail, appearance
SLSNylonSlightly grainyStrength, complex shapes
CNCMetal, hard plastics, woodSmooth, no layersFunctional and metal parts
LaserWood, acrylic, leather and othersEngraving or cut-outMarking, flat parts

Not sure which technology is right for you?

Send a model or a description. We will suggest the technology and material based on how the part will actually be used.

Send an enquiryPrice estimate