Plastic 3D printing
A wide range of 3D printing plastic materials from thermoplastics for functional parts to high detail resins (thermosets) for visual prototypes.
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| Name | Price | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| High stiffness, good detail, affordable. |
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Browse PLA materials | Get instant quote | |
| Commodity plastic, improved mechanical and thermal properties compared to PLA. |
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Browse ABS materials | Get instant quote | |
| Used to substitute functional injection moulded parts, good chemical resistance. |
$ $ $ $ $ |
Browse Nylon materials | Get instant quote | |
| High detail and smooth surface, injection mold-like prototyping. |
$ $ $ $ $ |
Browse resin materials | Get instant quote | |
| Good for mechanical parts with high impact resistance and flexibility. Sterilizable. |
$ $ $ $ $ |
Browse PETG materials | Get instant quote | |
| Rubber-like material, suitable for tubes, grips, seals and gaskets. |
$ $ $ $ $ |
Browse TPU materials | Get instant quote | |
| UV stability and high chemical resistance, preferred material for outdoor applications. |
$ $ $ $ $ |
Browse ASA materials | Get instant quote | |
| Engineering plastic, high performance applications, flame retardant. |
$ $ $ $ $ |
Browse PEI materials | Get instant quote |
3D printed plastic parts
Additive manufacturing (AM) is an excellent option for producing plastic components quickly and cost-effectively. Plastic AM is generally cheaper than subtractive manufacturing, and its speed and automation allow for rapid, iterative part optimization. 3D printing plastic parts involves precisely building up a part layer by layer, distinguishing it from subtractive CNC plastic machining. As 3D printing uses a huge variety of polymer materials, it's ideal for many applications, including prototyping and low volume production runs.
Plastic 3D printing service
Protolabs Network offers a state-of-the-art plastic prototyping service, guaranteeing consistent quality and fast lead times. We work with a robust network of manufacturers operating over 2,400 3D printing machines, which means we can ensure both competitive prices and fast lead times. With our global network and diverse capabilities, we can produce parts with all sorts of materials and properties, with various production methods. We specialize in industry-standard 3D printing processes, including FDM, SLA, SLS and MJF, bringing you everything you need for custom 3D printing projects, including rapid prototyping and industrial applications. Work with us to access our global plastic 3D printing supply chain today.
Custom plastic 3D printing
Our services enable designers and engineers to create custom 3D printed plastic parts for many applications in industries like aerospace, automotive, defense, industrial automation, machinery, manufacturing, medical devices, hardware setups, energy and robotics. We use a machine learning algorithm to transform CAD files into quotes for your custom parts, ensuring the manufacturability of your designs before they reach a manufacturing partner. Our platform offers a wide variety of plastic materials and technologies fit for producing plastic parts, including post-processing options for certain plastic 3D printing methods.
Frequently asked questions
What plastic is used for 3D printing?
We offer 3D printing capabilities in the following plastics: PLA, Formlabs Resins, 3D Systems Resins, ABS, Nylon, PETG, TPU, ASA and PEI.
How much does 3D printing plastic cost?
3D printing costs depend on part size and complexity and your choice of plastic. Variables to consider include the type of 3D printing process, production and post-processing time and the quantity and quality of plastic filament, resin or powder required. Thanks to our quick quote builder and decentralized manufacturing network of 3D print shops, we can offer competitive prices for your custom parts needs.
How strong is 3D printed plastic?
As there are many different types of polymers, 3D printed plastic parts tend to vary in strength. This also depends on build orientation and technology. We recommend using Markforged Onyx, PA12, PETG and PP for optimal part strength.
Is it possible to 3D print clear plastic parts?
Yes, you can 3D print clear plastic parts with materials like clear PLA, PETG, or specialized resins. Achieving transparency often requires fine-tuning print settings like layer height and infill density, or post-processing steps like sanding and polishing. SLA printers generally produce the clearest results, especially when combined with transparent resin. Protolabs Network offers clear resin with SLA printing, however, if full transparency is required, contact us about a custom request.
How accurate is plastic 3D printing?
The accuracy of plastic 3D printing varies depending on printing technique. FDM typically achieves approximately 0.1mm accuracy, but may show layer lines. SLA can offer higher precision, approximately 0.05mm, as well as smoother surface. SLS is comparable to SLA in accuracy, but results in parts with rougher textures. Additional factors like material, layer height, and post-processing can also influence accuracy.