3D Printing

● Cost-Effective: 3D printing is one of the most economical manufacturing processes for single parts or small batches, as it only uses the necessary material and requires no tooling.

● Geometries: Advanced 3D printers build parts layer by layer using a computer-controlled nozzle, making it possible to create intricate shapes, including complex internal geometries.

● Efficiency: After a part is designed using CAD software, it can be printed within hours, eliminating the need for a lengthy setup process.

● Adaptability: Since 3D printed parts don't require tooling, there is less risk in production. If a flaw is found post-printing, it can be corrected digitally without the need for costly tool replacements.

● Environmental considerations: While 3D printers do require electricity, they typically generate no material waste. In contrast, substractive processes like machining produce leftover material.

What is 3D Printing?

3D printing, also called additive manufacturing, is a process where a part is constructed layer by layer. A computer directs the 3D printer to deposit or solidify material in a pre-determined pattern, building up the layers one at a time.

There are various types of 3D printers, including those for printing plastic parts and others for metals or different materials. Despite the diversity in 3D printing technologies, they share some common features.

3D printing has transformed manufacturing by offering a streamlined, one-step production process. 3D printers can be installed in offices and small spaces, require minimal training to use, and have very low startup costs due to the affordability of materials, which can be bought in small amounts.

How to Select 3D Printing Process

If you need help determining the best 3D printing process for your needs, you can schedule a consultation with our additive manufacturing experts.

To ensure your 3D CAD files are suitable for printing, they must be reviewed by our production team. They will optimize the designs to meet the specific requirements of the chosen printing method, whether it’s FDM, SLA, SLS, or SLM.

3D Printing Services for Custom Parts or Prototype

For top-notch 3D printing services, Aikete Plast is your ideal choice, offering instant solution optimization to enhance your experience.

At Aikete Plast, we excel in providing top-notch 3D printing services that exceed your expectations. Our rapid optimization solutions are crafted to enhance your 3D printing experience. With cutting-edge technology and a skilled team, we deliver precision and efficiency in realizing your ideas. Whether you need rapid prototyping, customized parts, or intricate designs, Aikete Plast is your reliable partner for transforming concepts into reality.

Whether you're an innovator with a game-changing product or an engineer in need of precision parts, our team is ready to assist. Join us in transforming your 3D printing experience. Contact us today to explore the endless possibilities.

Our Highlights

Just-in-Time Manufacturing

Printing lead times are significantly shorter compared to castings or forgings. With no need for assembly line setup, fast and distributed manufacturing is easily achieved.

Minimized Waste

The additive process applies material only where necessary, resulting in less waste compared to subtractive methods like milling. Additionally, unused powder can often be recycled.

Reduced Assembly

Multiple components can be combined into a single, intricate printed part, minimizing assembly time, costs, and potential failure points.

Available 3D Printing Materials

Noted: 3D printing technology is continuously advancing, and new materials may become available in the future, so this list may not be comprehensive. When selecting materials, it's important to consider factors such as printer compatibility, desired performance, application requirements, and cost.

Metals

● Aluminum
● Cobalt
● Chrome
● Inconel
● Stainless Steel
● Titanium

Plastics

● ABS
● PA (Nylon)
● Polycarbonate
● Polypropylene

Elastomers

● Digital photopolymer
● TPU
● True Silicone

Note: The 3D printing technology is constantly evolving, and new materials may emerge in the future, so this list may not be exhaustive. When choosing materials, factors such as printer compatibility, required performance, application areas, and cost need to be taken into consideration.

3D Printing vs CNC Machining: Which is right for your prototype and production?

Subtractive & Additive Manufacturing
3D printing, also referred to as additive manufacturing, creates parts layer by layer. While it offers several advantages over traditional manufacturing methods, it does have its limitations. On the other hand, CNC machining is a widely used substractive process that manufactures parts by removing material from a solid block.

Materials & Availability
The 3D printing process builds parts layer by layer using materials such as liquid photopolymer resins (SLA), photopolymer droplets (PolyJet), plastic or metal powders (SLS/DMLS), and plastic filaments (FDM), resulting in less waste compared to CNC machining. CNC machining, on the other hand, involves cutting from a solid block of material, leading to a lower material utilization rate. However, the key advantage of CNC machining is its ability to work with almost any material, including production-grade engineering plastics and various metals. This makes CNC machining a highly viable option for prototypes and mass-produced parts that demand high functionality and specific performance characteristics.

Accuracy, Surface Quality & Geometric Complexity
3D printing excels at producing parts with highly intricate geometries, including hollow shapes that are challenging or impossible for CNC machining, making it ideal for applications like jewelry and crafts. On the other hand, CNC machining provides superior dimensional accuracy (±0.005mm) and excellent surface finishes (Ra 0.1μm). Advanced 5-axis CNC milling machines can achieve high-precision machining of complex parts, helping you tackle even the most demanding manufacturing challenges.

Cost, Quantity & Delivery Time
3D printing is ideal for producing small quantities of parts quickly and affordably, as it doesn’t require tooling or much human intervention. The cost is based on the amount of material used, so larger parts or higher quantities will increase the price. CNC machining, on the other hand, involves a more complex process that requires skilled engineers to program the machine’s parameters and tool paths. The cost of CNC machining includes this additional labor. However, once set up, CNC machines can operate continuously without supervision, making them well-suited for larger production runs.

Products of 3D Printing Materials

ABS-Like Black (Accura 7820)

PA12 White (PA650)

ABS-Like Gray (Accura Xtreme Gray)

Carbon EPX 86FR

PA 12 Mineral-Filled (PA620-MF)

Polypropylene Natural

Aluminum

Cobalt Chrome

Stainless Steel 17-4PH

Digital Photopolymer (30A-95A)

TPU 70-A

Titanium

Request Your Free 3D Printing Quote Today

After receiving your drawings, our engineers will analyze your custom 3D printing parts right away. We actively work with you to clarify all details before providing a quote that is both economical and accurate.

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Factory Address:
No.15, Shangxiukeng Industrial Zone, Guangming District, Shenzhen

Capabilities: Silicone&Rubber; Tooling & molding; Mold&Tool; 3D Printing; CNC Machining; Vacuum Casting

Industries: Medical; Automotive; Consumer Electronics; Education; Robotics & Automation; Industrial Machinery

Resources: Cases; Blogs

Contact Us: Phone：+86 18824396781

E-mail：Jennie@aiketeplast.com