Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to common questions about our 3D printing services.
How long will my part take to 3D print?
It depends on the size of the parts and the chosen printing technology.
As a guide:-
Small parts = 2-3 days
Medium parts = 3-5 days
Large parts = 5+ days
SLA and SLM typically take longer
What is the largest part that can be produced?
Please refer to our auto quote page to see which technologies are capable of printing your part.
As a guide:-
FDM/FFF (1000 x 1000 x 1000 mm)
FGF (1000 x 1000 x 1000 mm)
SLA (1000 x 1000 x 1000 mm)
DLP (190 x 90 x 70 mm)
SLM (280 x 280 x 280 mm)
BJP (330 x 330 x 400 mm)
Can clear parts be printed?
Clear parts are offered via the MJP and SLA/DLP technologies. How clear the parts are depends on the geometry and materials used. In some cases, the part may be more translucent than clear.
How many technologies do you use?
We offer 3D printing and Additive Manufacturing solutions for seven technologies:-
FDM/FFF
fused filament fabrication
FGF
fused granular fabrication
DLP
digital light processing
MJP
multijet printing
BJP
binder jet printing
SLA
stereolithography apparatus
SLS
selective laser sintering
SLM
selective laser melting
Will my part be post processed?
Supports are removed as standard, unless otherwise specified. Other post processing techniques are offered, but at a price.
The post processing options are available to choose from in our auto quote system.
What colour will my part be?
We will use the materials loaded in the machine to reduce lead time. Swapping to special materials is possible but a material changeover fee may be required. For FDM | FFF printing, there is a larger choice of materials and colours. So please request your preferred colour. For full colour parts we use the CJP technology.
What is the layer thickness that can be printed?
From 10 microns min using DLP, up to 400 microns with FFF.
Do you offer an end-to-end managed service?
For a fully managed project including engineering, design, 3D scanning, 3D printing and post-processing – all to customer specification – please contact:
Tel. +44 1420 556755
replik8@cdg.uk.com
Do you offer high temperature materials?
We offer high temp materials such as PEI / Ultem, PPSU, PEKK, PEEK and ThermecZED.
How accurate will my part be?
The part accuracy will be as good as the technology will allow. Part orientation can affect part accuracy, which we sometimes cannot change. The part will be inspection to ensure it meets the required quality threshold.
If you require a specific tolerance, please put the required tolerance in the notes section.
Can you print batches or parts?
Batch production is offered. Depending on the quantities, we may propose a different technology or material to those requests.
What materials can we print with?
CDG 3D Tech offers a diverse range of 3D printing materials across various technologies, including FDM, FGF, SLA, SLS, SLM, MJP, and Binder Jetting. Their material offerings cater to a wide array of applications, from rapid prototyping to end-use parts.
If you have a specific material in mind, please reach out to the team who will be able to assist you.