TEST THE SHAPE. THEN TEST THE PART.
Use 3D printed prototypes to shorten the loop between design and physical feedback. Print early for fit, print better for function, then switch process when the design earns it.
WHAT LEAVES THE LAB
- Printed prototype parts from CAD
- Material and process guidance
- Revision-friendly workflow
- No minimum order quantity
- Tracked build and shipping status
FROM FILE TO PART
- 01
Pick the question
Decide what this prototype needs to prove: size, assembly, finish, strength, customer response, or production risk.
- 02
Choose process
Use FDM for speed and low cost, SLA for detail, or SLS for stronger nylon geometry.
- 03
Print
The lab produces the part and flags obvious manufacturability issues.
- 04
Iterate
Update the CAD and repeat until the design is ready for machining, assembly, or batch production.
REAL JOB PATTERNS
Representative build profiles, shown as process guidance rather than polished portfolio theatre.
| Part | Process | Material | Spec | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Snap-fit enclosure | SLS | Nylon PA12 | Clip geometry | Design validation |
| Workbench fixture | FDM | PETG | Durable shop use | Low-cost iteration |
| Presentation model | SLA | Standard resin | Smooth finish | Demo review |
Prototype fidelity should increase in stages
Early prototypes should be cheap and fast. Later prototypes should become more accurate, stronger, smoother, or closer to final material as the design risk narrows.
Printed does not mean rough
FDM can be fast and functional, SLA can be crisp and presentable, and SLS can create durable nylon shapes that are hard to fixture or support using other methods.
COMMON QUESTIONS
- Are 3D printed prototypes strong enough for testing?
- Many are. Strength depends on process, material, print orientation, geometry, and load case. FDM PETG, nylon, SLA engineering resin, and SLS PA12 all handle different functional tests.
- Can I prototype from a STEP file?
- Yes. STEP files are accepted and can be used for 3D printing workflows when the geometry is suitable.
- What is the cheapest prototype process?
- FDM is usually the cheapest way to validate form and fit. SLA and SLS cost more but can be better for detail, finish, or durable nylon parts.