What is 3D printing? 3D printing is a manufacturing process that builds by layers to create a three-dimensional solid object from a digital model. To print a 3-D object, the manufacturer uses a 3D computer-aided design (CAD) program to create a digital 3D File. During the print process; the 3-D printer starts at the bottom of the design and builds up successive layers of material until the object is finished. At Schmit Prototypes we provide a few cutting edge 3D-Printing Options: Polyjet, FDM, and Sterolithography and each one has its own benefits.

Rapid Prototyping/3D Printing Applications:

• Proof of concept
• Visual models (working or static)
• Engineering models
• Anatomical models
• Short run production parts
• Oversized displays/props

Stereolithography:
iPro8000-SLA-sized-for-webStereolithography (SLA), is the 3D printing process most commonly used by Schmit Prototypes to create master patterns for urethane casting. SLA parts can also easily be finished and painted to be used for visual models. SLA parts are usually built with a 0.004″ layer and build quickly on our two 3D Systems iPro 8000’s.
FDM:
FDM (Fused Deposition Modeling) is another 3D printing method offered by Schmit Prototypes. Our FDM machine can build with a 0.010″ or 0.013″ layer. FDM parts are built in ABS which has excellent strength and thermal properties.

Polyjet:
3D printing on our Polyjet gives Schmit Prototypes the ability to print parts with extreme detail. Our Polyjet prints at an incredible 0.0006″ per layer.
SLA/FDM/Polyjet Delivery:
At Schmit Prototypes our average delivery time for 3D printed parts is 1-3 days depending on polyjet_eden260v-sized-for-webpart geometry, volume and level of finishing/painting.
Why Rapid Prototyping/3D printing?
3D Printing provides quick lead times.
3D Printing can decrease costly mistakes by detecting design flaws before the manufacturing process.
3D printing is a cost-effective option for low-volume production