About 3D Printing

Understanding
3D printing

3D printing is a flexible way to turn digital designs into real physical parts. This guide explains the materials, settings and options available so you can choose the best setup for your project.

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Examples of 3D printed parts including a bracket, gear and lattice ball

How the process works

1

Upload your 3D model using the Instant Quote tool.

2

Choose your material, quality, infill and quantity.

3

The quote tool gives an estimated price.

4

Your file is reviewed before payment is requested.

5

Once approved, you receive confirmation and payment details.

6

Your part is printed, checked and prepared for delivery.

FDM 3D printing

FDM printing builds parts layer by layer using melted filament. It is the main process currently offered by T3D Printworks.

Ideal for:
  • Prototypes
  • Functional parts
  • Brackets and mounts
  • Cosplay pieces
  • Display models
  • Replacement parts
  • Larger prints
Black FDM 3D printed boat model showing visible layer lines
FDM parts are strong, affordable and available in a range of materials. Layer lines may be visible, especially on curved surfaces, which is normal for this process.

Resin printing coming soon

Resin printing uses liquid resin cured by light to create parts with very fine detail and smooth surfaces.

Best suited to:
  • Miniatures
  • Figures
  • Highly detailed parts
  • Small decorative models
  • Parts with very fine features
Grey resin-style miniature knight figure
Resin printing is planned for the future and is not currently available through T3D Printworks.

Choosing a material

PLA+

Great all-rounder for most prints. Easy to print and suitable for prototypes, models and general parts.

PETG

Tougher and more temperature-resistant than PLA+. Good for functional and outdoor parts.

ABS

Stronger and more heat-resistant. Good for parts that need to handle more heat or stress.

ASA

Similar to ABS but with better UV resistance, making it ideal for outdoor applications.

TPU

Flexible and rubber-like. Useful for grips, feet, bumpers and parts that need to bend.

Fibre reinforced

Carbon or glass fibre filled materials for extra strength, stiffness and heat resistance. Usually in black.

Not sure what to choose? PLA+ is usually the best starting point.

Print quality

Controlled by layer height. Smaller layers give more detail but take longer.

  • Extra Fine — 0.08mm
  • Fine — 0.12mm
  • High Quality — 0.16mm
  • Standard — 0.20mm
  • Draft — 0.24mm

Infill explained

Infill is the internal structure inside your print.

  • 10–15% light display models
  • 20% standard use
  • 30–40% stronger parts
  • 50%+ heavy duty

Supports explained

Supports hold up overhangs during printing.

  • Increase material use
  • Increase print time
  • Increase cleanup time
  • May leave marks

Multi-colour printing

Add up to four colours including the main colour.

  • Great for models and visual parts
  • Increases print time and cost
  • Some materials are black-only

File types

STL files are recommended for instant quoting.

  • Other file types may be accepted
  • One model per upload works best
  • Export in millimetres
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Final review before payment

Every model is checked for printability, material choice, supports and overall setup before payment is requested. If any changes are needed, we’ll contact you first.

Black 3D printed bracket example

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