Some commonly asked questions

FAQs

3D Printing

3D Printing, also referred to as Additive Manufacturing (AM), is the process of creating a physical object directly from a three-dimensional digital model.

We operate two main types of 3D Printing, FDM (Fused Deposition Modelling) and SLA (Stereolithography).

FDM (Fused Deposition Modelling) 3D printing is a manufacturing process where a heated nozzle extrudes thermoplastic material layer by layer to build a 3D object. Known for its affordability and versatility, FDM is widely used for creating functional prototypes, end-use parts, and hobbyist projects. It works with a variety of materials, including ABS, PLA, PETG, and more, making it a popular choice for robust and cost-effective 3D printing. 

Common applications include:  

  • Functional Prototypes: Sturdy, testable models for product development and engineering validation.
  • End-Use Parts: Custom fixtures, jigs, housings, brackets, and replacement parts.
  • Educational Models: Affordable tools for teaching engineering, design, or scientific concepts.
  • Consumer Products: Customizable items like phone stands, organizers, and household accessories.
  • Hobbyist Projects: Models, miniatures, and components for DIY enthusiasts and makers.
  • Automotive and Aerospace Parts: Lightweight, durable components for non-critical applications.

SLA (Stereolithography) 3D printing is a manufacturing process that uses a laser to cure liquid resin into solid objects layer by layer. Known for its precision and smooth surface finishes, SLA is ideal for creating detailed prototypes, intricate designs, and parts requiring high accuracy. It's widely used in industries such as healthcare, engineering, and product design for its ability to produce complex geometries with exceptional detail.

Common applications include: 

  • Functional Prototypes: Sturdy, testable models for product development and engineering validation.
  • End-Use Parts: Custom fixtures, jigs, housings, brackets, and replacement parts.
  • Educational Models: Affordable tools for teaching engineering, design, or scientific concepts.
  • Consumer Products: Customizable items like phone stands, organizers, and household accessories.
  • Hobbyist Projects: Models, miniatures, and components for DIY enthusiasts and makers.
  • Automotive and Aerospace Parts: Lightweight, durable components for non-critical applications.
  • Prototypes: High-fidelity models for product development, especially for complex geometries and detailed designs.
  • Medical Devices: Custom surgical guides, dental aligners, hearing aids, and anatomical models.
  • Jewellery: Intricate patterns and moulds for casting.
  • Consumer Goods: Small-scale production of custom or specialty items, such as phone cases and wearables.
  • Engineering Components: Functional parts like gaskets, seals, or fluid dynamics models.
  • Miniatures and Models: Detailed figurines, architectural models, and hobbyist items.

We offer a huge selection of material variations to meet your products requirements. Different materials offer certain characteristics that make them better for a specific use e.g. offering a level of heat resistance.

All Data Sheets noting exact specifications are available upon request.

This is subject to the material you choose, we currently offer: Black, White, Gray, Blue, Green, Red, Yellow, Orange, and Clear. If you need a different colour please do not hesitate to contact us. 

Layer lines are an inherent characteristic of Fused Deposition Modelling (FDM) 3D printing and are visible horizontal ridges formed during the layer-by-layer construction process on the surface of a 3D-printed object. Layer lines are much less visible on SLA (Stereolithography) 3D printed objects. 

Our FDM printers have a capacity of 256 x 256 x 256 mm and our SLA printers are 218 x 122 x 220 mm.  

There is no minimum order quantity required; however, larger orders benefit from lower unit costs. 

Yes, we can offer various post-processing services, including support removal, surface finishing, and painting.

Yes, we offer discounts for bulk orders. Please contact us with your project details, and we'll provide a customized quote that reflects the volume discount.

3D Scanning

In most cases we do need to have the item sent to us to enable us to scan in a controlled environment. 

Raw scan data is typically delivered as an STL file. 

General

Although there is no minimum order value, we do charge a minimum set up fee of £10.00.

We are here to help, please email your query to [email protected]

The files that we currently accept are: STL, OBJ, VRML, STP, IGS or WRL. 

We prioritise the confidentiality of your products and information. To ensure this, we have strict processes in place: 

  • Functional Prototypes: Sturdy, testable models for product development and engineering validation.
  • End-Use Parts: Custom fixtures, jigs, housings, brackets, and replacement parts.
  • Educational Models: Affordable tools for teaching engineering, design, or scientific concepts.
  • Consumer Products: Customizable items like phone stands, organizers, and household accessories.
  • Hobbyist Projects: Models, miniatures, and components for DIY enthusiasts and makers.
  • Automotive and Aerospace Parts: Lightweight, durable components for non-critical applications.
  • Prototypes: High-fidelity models for product development, especially for complex geometries and detailed designs.
  • Medical Devices: Custom surgical guides, dental aligners, hearing aids, and anatomical models.
  • Jewellery: Intricate patterns and moulds for casting.
  • Consumer Goods: Small-scale production of custom or specialty items, such as phone cases and wearables.
  • Engineering Components: Functional parts like gaskets, seals, or fluid dynamics models.
  • Miniatures and Models: Detailed figurines, architectural models, and hobbyist items.
  • Non-Disclosure Agreements (NDAs): We can sign NDAs to guarantee your designs and information are protected.
  • Secure Data Handling: All files and information are stored on encrypted systems with restricted access to authorized personnel only.
  • Controlled Access: Our facilities and production areas are secured to prevent unauthorized access.
  • Data Retention Policy: We retain your files only for the duration of the project, deleting them securely after completion if requested.
  • Trained Staff: Our team is trained to handle sensitive information with the utmost care and professionalism.

Your trust and privacy are our top priorities, and we’re committed to safeguarding your intellectual property. 

Bespoke 3D Printing is committed to sustainability by minimising material waste through additive manufacturing, utilising eco-friendly and recyclable materials, and optimising energy-efficient processes. By producing on-demand and reducing overproduction, we contribute to a more sustainable future while delivering high-quality, custom solutions. 

Due to the custom nature of service, regretfully we are unable to offer returns and refunds in most cases. If you are unsatisfied with the quality of your parts, please contact us within 30 days of receiving the item(s) and we will do our best to find a solution. 

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