The 3D Printers FAQ’s

Here, we’ve compiled a comprehensive list of frequently asked questions about the services we offer. Our goal is to provide you with the information you need, If you can’t find the answer you’re looking for please call us on 01233 556 055. We will be happy to help.

3D printing – FAQ’s

How much does it cost to get something 3D printed?

Prices vary according to which material, print size, and production method are used. It’s important to take into consideration if your item is ‘print ready’ as this can be a large proportion of your costs. We are more than happy to give you a quote. Generally, printing starts from £75.

Where can I get 3D models printed?

Right here! We will be happy to print your 3D file or we can do the whole process for you – from idea to printed product. We can design, produce digital CAD drawings, prepare the 3D print file and Print. Delivered straight to your door.

What is 3D printing and how does it work?

3D printing is used to fabricate a wide range of products. We can produce products in a variety of materials to create strong, durable and even flexible items. We give our clients the ability to turn their imaginations into reality – with a real tangible product.

The process

1. The idea

2. A digital CAD drawing is produced

3. The Cad drawing is turned into a mesh (.stl)

4. The mesh drawing is ‘sliced’ into layers and turned into a G-code

5. The G-code is then sent to the 3D printer

6. The Printer gets to work and the result…your finished item.

How can I find out more about 3D printing services?

Give us a call! We are here and waiting to help. 01233 556 055

Do you offer 3D printing design services?

Give us a call! We are here and waiting to help. 01233 556 055

How fast is 3D printing?

We have completed and delivered projects the same day! Of course, it’s project-dependent but it’s so much faster than traditional manufacturing. We will be happy to give you an idea of how long your project will take when you call.

Bespoke Design Service – FAQ’s

Do you offer prototyping?

Yes. We can simply manufacture your prototype or even design it from the ground up.

I need a bracket made, can you help?

Yes! We design to your specific needs.

My part is broken, can you work from it?

Absolutely! Send us some photos. We often re-create broken parts.

I need to chat my idea through, can I speak to an engineer?

Yes. We offer a complimentary 15 minute consultation to go through your idea and agree a plan to move forward.

How much does your design service cost?

Every project is individual depending on the amount of work involved. However, prices start from £75. Give us a call to find out how much your project is likely to cost.

I need a product designed and manufactured, can you do both?

Absolutely. We are able to take a design from concept through to manufacturing 1000s. To discuss your project give us a call. 01233 556 055

General – FAQ’s

‘What is 3D printing?’

‘3D printing is an additive manufacturing process that creates objects layer by layer from a digital design file. It allows for the rapid production of complex

‘Do you offer 3D printing for education projects?’

‘Yes! We work with schools and universities to supply prototypes

‘How does additive manufacturing work?’

‘Additive manufacturing builds objects by depositing material layer-by-layer according to a 3D model. Unlike subtractive methods

‘Whats the largest part you can 3D print in one go?’

‘We can print parts up to 400mm x 400mm x 450mm in a single piece. Larger components can be printed in sections and bonded or assembled post-production.’

‘What services does The 3D Printers offer?’

‘We offer bespoke 3D printing

‘Do you print prototypes for crowdfunding campaigns?’

‘Yes – we regularly support product launches and Kickstarter campaigns by turning early concepts into real

‘Can I order bespoke 3D printed parts?’

‘Yes

‘Whats the turnaround time for a standard order?’

‘Most standard parts are printed and dispatched within 2-5 working days. More complex or bulk orders may take longer-well always confirm this upfront.’

‘Do you design parts from scratch or just print?’

‘We do both. Our team can create CAD models from scratch or print directly from your files. We offer full design support to ensure your parts meet technical and functional requirements.’

‘Can you reverse-engineer existing parts?’

‘Absolutely. If youve got a broken or outdated part

‘Can you print in multiple materials?’

‘Yes. We work with a variety of materials including PLA

‘Do you offer plastic and metal printing services?’

‘We specialise in commercial-grade plastic printing. For metal parts

‘What industries do you serve?’

‘We work with logistics

‘Do you support SMEs and large enterprises?’

‘Yes – we support businesses of all sizes. Whether youre a start-up needing a prototype or a global team requiring reliable batch production

‘Can I 3D print parts that will be used outdoors?’

‘Yes – we offer weather-resistant materials like PETG and ASA that withstand UV exposure

‘Do you provide a 3D scanning service for broken parts?’

‘We can scan or measure broken components and recreate digital CAD files for printing. This is ideal for obsolete parts or those no longer available from manufacturers.’

‘Whats the difference between PLA and PETG?’

‘PLA is easy to print and biodegradable

‘Can you help optimise my design for 3D printing?’

‘Absolutely. We provide design-for-manufacturing (DfM) advice to reduce material usage

‘Are your printed parts strong enough for industrial use?’

‘Yes – we use commercial-grade materials suitable for load-bearing and mechanical parts. Well advise based on your strength

‘Whats the best material for impact resistance?’

‘PETG and ABS are great for impact-resistant parts. For extra toughness

‘Can I supply my own 3D model for printing?’

‘Of course. Simply send us your STL

‘What resolution can you print at?’

‘We typically print at 0.2mm layer height for FDM

‘Can I request a sample print?’

‘Yes – were happy to provide sample prints so you can test materials

‘Do you offer accounts for repeat B2B customers?’

‘Yes – trade accounts with invoicing

‘Can I order repeat batches of an existing part?’

‘Definitely. Once weve printed your part

‘Can you help me patent a 3D printed product?’

‘While we dont handle legal processes

‘How do I know which material is right for my project?’

‘Well help you choose based on your requirements-considering strength

‘Do you offer packaging solutions for fragile parts?’

‘Yes – we can design and print custom inserts or protective housings to keep your components safe during storage or transport.’

‘Do you offer colour options for 3D printed parts?’

‘Yes – we offer a wide range of colours across PLA

‘Whats the best way to order multiple part versions?’

‘If you need several design variations

‘Can 3D printing replace injection moulding?’

‘For small batches or custom parts

‘Do you offer on-site consultations for large projects?’

‘For high-value or complex projects

‘Is 3D printing cost-effective for small batch production?’

‘Yes. 3D printing removes the need for tooling

‘Do you work with inventors and startups?’

‘Absolutely. We help bring early-stage ideas to life with design support

‘Are 3D printed parts water-resistant?’

‘Many of our materials

‘Can you 3D print replacement parts for appliances or tools?’

‘Yes – we specialise in creating practical

‘Can you label or mark parts with logos or text?’

‘Yes – we can emboss or deboss branding

‘How can I get the best value from 3D printing?’

‘Choosing the right material

‘What is the difference between SLA and FDM 3D printing?’

‘SLA (resin) printing uses UV-curable liquid for ultra-smooth detail

‘Can you combine multiple 3D printed parts into an assembly?’

‘Yes – we can design parts with snap fits

‘Whats the environmental impact of 3D printing vs traditional methods?’

‘3D printing produces less waste and uses only the material needed for each part. Combined with plant-based filaments

‘Can your parts replace metal parts?’

‘In some cases

‘Can you 3D print mechanical prototypes with working features?’

‘Yes – we can print hinges

‘Can you provide technical drawings of the parts you produce?’

‘Yes – we can supply 2D technical drawings or 3D CAD files with dimensions if needed

‘Can you help standardise 3D printed parts across multiple sites?’

‘Yes – we work with multi-site operations to create consistent

‘How do you ensure repeatability across production runs?’

‘We lock in your print settings

‘Do you offer part traceability or serial coding for quality control?’

‘We can embed part numbers

‘Can I order a custom kit of multiple parts?’

‘Yes – we can assemble kits containing a range of parts

‘How does your service support sustainability and circular manufacturing?’

‘We design parts that fix

‘What post-processing options are available?’

‘We offer sanding

‘Can I submit a broken part to be redesigned and improved?’

‘Yes – many of our best parts started this way. Well analyse your failed or worn-out component and create a stronger

‘Are your services suitable for lean manufacturing environments?’

‘Yes – our on-demand

‘Can you replicate parts that are no longer in production?’

‘Absolutely. We specialise in reverse engineering discontinued or hard-to-source parts

‘Do you offer long-term supply partnerships for repeat orders?’

‘Yes – we work with teams that require reliable

‘Can you provide a design NDA?’

‘Yes – were happy to sign your NDA or provide our own to ensure your design and IP are fully protected before discussing any files.’

‘What is the most durable filament for mechanical parts?’

‘For strength and toughness

‘Are your materials suitable for high-temperature applications?’

‘We offer materials like PETG

‘Can you make tool holders or shadow boards for workshop safety?’

‘Yes – we design bespoke tool holders and clip systems that improve organisation

‘Can you 3D print conductive parts or circuits?’

‘While we dont currently print embedded electronics

‘Can I get branded or colour-coded parts for site identification?’

‘Yes – we can print in various colours or label parts to suit different departments

‘What payment methods do you accept?’

‘We accept BACS

‘How does 3D printing reduce procurement costs?’

‘It removes the need for bulk ordering

‘Can you print textured or patterned surfaces?’

‘Yes – our printers can replicate surface textures like grip

‘Do you support engineers with on-site trials or test fits?’

‘Yes – we regularly send sample kits or fit-test batches to engineers so they can trial our parts before committing to a full rollout.’

‘How do you store and handle customer files?’

‘All client files are securely stored on encrypted servers

‘What types of files do you need for quoting?’

‘STL

‘Can I make edits to my design after Ive submitted it?’

‘Yes – we encourage collaboration. If you spot changes after uploading

‘Can you reduce the weight of a component without compromising strength?’

‘Yes – through lattice infills

‘Do you support low-volume end-use part production?’

‘Yes. Many of our customers use 3D printing for on-demand

‘How fast can you deliver 3D printed parts?’

‘For urgent requests