No 3D printer? We’ll print it for you!
Do you need something 3D printed but don’t have a 3D printer? We offer a professional 3D printing service for everyone! Whether it’s a unique design, a prototype, or a replacement part – we provide high-quality, custom 3D prints.
How does it work? It’s simple! Read on to find out how to submit your file, and we’ll take care of the rest.
1.
Upload Your 3D Design
Send your 3D file to info@multi-3dprint.nl in one of the following formats: .STL, .OBJ, .DXF, or .3MF. We will check if the design is suitable for 3D printing by assessing its shape and dimensions. If it is printable, we determine which 3D printer is best suited for the job, how long the print will take, and the cost. This information will be shared with you via email or phone.
You can also visit our store with your 3D file or scan. This allows us to review and process your request faster. Bring your design, and we’ll take a look right away!
2.
Color and Material Selection
Choose from a variety of filaments and colors, including ABS, PLA, PETG, and more. For more details on different filament types, click here. We also offer a wide range of Polymaker filaments—find out more here.
Not sure which material to choose? We will select the best filament for your design. In most cases, this will be PLA, PETG or TPU, depending on your project’s requirements.
3.
Printing Process and Delivery
We ensure that your design is 3D printed with precision and delivered as quickly as possible. The printing time depends on the complexity, size, and chosen material of your design. Once the print is complete, we perform a quality check and finalize it with care.
You can either pick up your 3D print at our store or have it shipped to your address. Want to know the estimated turnaround time or have special delivery requests? Contact us, and we’ll be happy to assist you!
What is FDM?
Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM), also known as Fused Filament Fabrication (FFF), is one of the most widely used 3D printing technologies. This method builds objects layer by layer using a heated nozzle that melts thermoplastic filament and deposits it precisely onto a build platform. Once the material cools and hardens, a solid 3D-printed object is formed.
Thanks to its affordability, reliability, and versatility, FDM is ideal for a wide range of applications, from prototypes and functional parts to final products. Additionally, this technology allows for the creation of complex geometries that would be difficult or even impossible to achieve with traditional manufacturing techniques.
How Does FDM Work?
- Design Preparation
The process begins with a digital 3D model, typically created using CAD software. This model is then converted into printable instructions using slicing software, which divides the object into thin layers. The slicer also determines settings like layer height, infill density, and support structures, ensuring that the print is optimized for accuracy and material efficiency.
- Filament Heating
The selected thermoplastic filament, such as PLA, ABS, or PETG, is fed into the printer’s extruder, which directs it to the heated nozzle. Depending on the material, the print head temperature ranges from 180°C to 260°C. The filament melts and becomes pliable, allowing it to be precisely deposited in controlled layers. Some advanced printers also have heated beds to improve adhesion and minimize warping.
- Layer-by-Layer Printing
The print head moves along the X and Y axes, depositing thin layers of molten filament onto the build platform. As each layer is completed, the build platform lowers (Z direction) to allow the next layer to be added. This process gradually constructs the object, layer by layer, ensuring structural integrity. Printers with dual extruders can even print with multiple materials or soluble support structures for more complex designs.
- Cooling and Hardening
Once the filament is deposited, it cools rapidly and solidifies, forming a strong and stable structure. Most FDM prints require some post-processing, such as removing support structures, sanding rough surfaces, or applying coatings for a smoother finish. Some materials, like ABS, can be further refined with chemical smoothing techniques (e.g., acetone vapor treatment) to achieve a glossier, injection-molded look.
Why Choose FDM?
- Accessible and affordable
FDM is one of the most cost-effective 3D printing technologies, making it an excellent choice for both beginners and professionals. The printers are widely available, easy to set up, and require minimal technical expertise to operate, making 3D printing more accessible than ever.
- Wide range of materials
FDM supports a broad range of thermoplastics, including PLA, ABS, PETG, TPU, and specialty composites like carbon fiber-infused filaments. This allows for applications ranging from biodegradable and flexible designs to high-strength, heat-resistant parts, giving users flexibility in material choice based on their project needs.
- Reliable and user-friendly
Modern FDM printers are designed for long-term use with minimal maintenance, making them a dependable choice for individuals and businesses. With automated bed leveling, improved extruders, and advanced cooling systems, FDM printers consistently produce high-quality, repeatable results, even for complex geometries.
- Versatile applications
FDM is used across industries for rapid prototyping, customized manufacturing, and small-batch production. Whether you’re developing functional prototypes, jigs, fixtures, or final-use parts, FDM allows for quick design iterations, reduced production costs, and efficient material usage. Its scalability makes it valuable for both hobbyists and large-scale industrial applications.
Applications of FDM
FDM is widely used in industries such as automotive, aerospace, medical technology, and product development. It enables companies to innovate quickly and cost-effectively. Some key applications include:
1.
Prototyping
Fast and affordable development of product concepts and design iterations, allowing engineers and designers to test functionality before mass production.
2.
Manufacturing Tools
Custom jigs, fixtures, and molds that streamline production processes, improve assembly precision, and reduce manufacturing costs.
3.
End-Use Products
Small batches of specialized, functional parts that can be directly used in consumer products, industrial applications, or low-volume production.
4.
Educational and Research Applications
FDM is widely used in universities, schools, and research labs for hands-on learning, scientific experimentation, and developing innovative solutions across various fields.
Do you have an idea or design you want to 3D print? Send us your file and requirements via info@multi-3dprint.nl, and we’ll explore the possibilities! We will check your design, advise on material selection, and provide a price estimate. Whether you need a prototype, a functional part, or a finished product, we are happy to help.