Guidance and preparation
Metal 3D printing: find the right next step.
Need a metal part? Learn what to prepare for a specialist and when a plastic shape model could help. We do not offer metal 3D printing: we do not accept metal printing orders or arrange metal production partners.
What is metal 3D printing?
Laser powder-bed processes such as DMLS and SLM build a part layer by layer from metal powder. Support removal, heat treatment, machining and inspection may follow. Ask a supplier about the complete process through to the finished part.
Still deciding between metal and plastic?
Identify the property that makes metal necessary: temperature, wear, loading or another specified requirement. A plastic visual model may answer a geometry question while leaving that material requirement completely open.
When do you need a metal specialist?
If your part must be metal, or you need to test the final material’s behaviour, discuss the requirements directly with a specialist manufacturer. Ask them to assess whether 3D printing, CNC machining or sheet metal suits the design.
For aluminium printing, ‘aluminium’ alone is not a complete specification: ask about the alloy, treatment and final inspection. A material appearing in a supplier’s catalogue does not establish suitability for your application.
What to take to a specialist
Use this checklist for your own supplier enquiry. Compare proposals against the work required, rather than the printing price alone.
- Purpose: what must the part do, in what environment, and what happens if it fails?
- Files: CAD model and drawing with units, overall dimensions, critical dimensions and quantity.
- Material: preferred alloy and the reason for it; have missing requirements assessed.
- Finishing: which surfaces, holes or threads need machining after printing?
- Inspection: which measurements, material records or test results are needed, and who evaluates them?
- Quotation: are preparation, finishing, inspection and shipping included? Who manufactures the part and who is your contact?
Need to see the shape first? A plastic model may help.
A plastic model can help you examine size, access and assembly sequence. For example, an unloaded enclosure model lets you look at whether components have enough space and can be reached. Agree which dimensions and details you want to check first.
This does not validate metal strength, heat resistance, wear resistance or safety. Fit and dimensional accuracy must also be checked again on the final metal version. Do not simply replace a working metal component with plastic.
If you need this kind of plastic model, send your file and the model’s purpose through our plastic printing service for review and a quote. We confirm what we can print before you place an order.