Frequently asked questions
Get the best answers before starting your journey with us by reading the responses we’ve already provided to our clients in Christchurch, New Zealand.
What is 3D printing, and how does it work?
3D printing builds 3D objects layer by layer. We use FDM, which melts plastic filament and extrudes it to form layers of lines. Other methods, like SLA (resin printing) and MJF (powder-based), work for different use cases.
What materials are used for 3D printing?
We 3D print with various materials, specializing in plastic using FDM technology. Explore our range of thermoplastics, each designed for specific needs like strength, stress tolerance, and heat resistance.
What is the cost of a 3D printing project?
We calculate project costs by considering materials, equipment, labor, and printing time. These costs depend on factors such as the model’s size, shape, design complexity, and material quality.
Is 3D printing suitable for mass production?
3D printing is great for small runs, prototyping, and testing designs, especially when frequent changes are needed. However, injection molding is better for large-scale production of thousands of items.
Your printing is accurate, right?
We 3D print your models with an accuracy of +/- 0.1 mm, adjusting for shrinkage and resizing holes. If you provide a blueprint, we’ll follow the dimensions and ensure a good fit for related parts.
Can you orint items that will contact Foods or Drink ?
Some Plastics used in FDM 3D printing are certified safe by the FDA. When printed, the items contain layer lines and micro-pores that can harbour dangerous microbes. For this reason 3D printed items need to be sealed prior to food contact and high diligence hygienic practices such as sanitising and hot washing need to be followed by the user. The plastic used needs to cope with the sanitiser and high temperature washing.
Do your 3D prints have layer lines?
In general, yes. 3D printing materials are constantly improving. Modern materials in 3D FDM printing show fewer layer lines than before. Surface finishes like gloss and texture reduce the visibility of layer lines. Printing with finer resolution also helps.
Do you provide post-processing surfaces?
Yes, we remove printing support scaffolding materials, and clean edges, surfaces and holes. We can also assemble multiple parts into one model using various techniques such as screws.
Can you create a model from Thingiverse or another?
We can print the model as long as you have the legal right to reproduce it. You are responsible for any copyright liabilities and download charges. Just provide us with the downloaded file for printing. If a fee needs to be paid, pay it, download the model to your own shareable storage such as Google Drive and send us the public link.
Do you offer colour printing services?
This is something we cannot offer at this time. Whilst Assemblies having multiple separate parts can be printed with the parts in different colors and materials, Models with different colors in the one part cannot be printed on our equipment.
How can I place an order for 3D printing?
Start by filling out the form on the contact page. Briefly describe your requirements, attach a photo, blueprint, or model file, and we’ll get back to you as quickly as possible to discuss your needs.
What is the largest Item you can print?
Our equipment allows us to print models that fit inside a space that is 250 mm wide x 210 mm deep x 220 mm high. Diagonals of that space can be used with some models, but supports will likely be needed.
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