How to Choose the Best 3D Printing Service
Additive manufacturing or 3D printing continues to be widely utilized globally by organizations looking to save time and money when building prototypes and low-volume end-use parts. Outsourcing the job can significantly minimize overhead costs. The challenge is choosing the best 3D printing service to become your trustworthy partner in your overall value chain. Here are some tips to help you make an informed choice.
Go beyond your country.
Working with a local company might sound convenient, but consider service providers overseas, like in China, to save more. Look for an established and experienced prototyping company that speaks your language and specializes in 3D printing, and verify its certifications, such as ISO 9001:2015, ISO 14001:2015, IATF 16949, and ISO/IEC 27001:2013.
Explore the available technologies
The best 3D printing service offers the most reliable additive manufacturing technologies proven to save time, post-processing effort, and money while improving part performance. These include selective laser sintering (SLS), stereolithography (SLA), fused deposition modeling (FDM), and direct metal laser sintering (DMLS). Some companies also offer specialty 3D printing services, such as ProJet MJP, which can print tiny and high-definition details.
Ask about the available materials.
Selecting a 3D printing technology is highly focused on the material. Not all materials will work with all technologies, but the best 3D printing service has a variety of them to meet every requirement. Ensure the company offers ABS and nylon for FDM, nylon powder for SLS, and titanium, stainless steel, and copper for DMLS.
Schedule a factory tour
Some companies offer a virtual factory tour that lets you explore their facilities remotely in realtime. Use this opportunity to verify their credibility and to speak with an in-house professional for insights on how they work. Get
The best 3D printing service can review your project at no extra cost while respecting your intellectual property. It’s also a chance to get tips for preparing your design and ask for suggestions if you’re unsure which additive manufacturing technology is suitable for your project.
Look for a versatile service provider.
Some of the best service providers specialize in other prototyping and manufacturing technologies, such as CNC machining, vacuum casting, and injection molding. It’s best to partner with a 3D printing company that can go further. That way, you won’t have to look again, and you can save time by entrusting your other requirements to the same trustworthy company.