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SanFordCNC

3D Printing

3D Printing

SLA, SLS, and metal 3D printing for rapid concept models and functional prototypes. Validate geometry before committing to CNC tooling.

Why Engineers Print With Us Before Cutting Metal

A $200 print that catches a clearance error saves a $2,000 CNC rework. We help you pick the right process and flag geometry that won't survive machining or molding.

1

Process-Matched Printing

SLA for cosmetic models, SLS for functional nylon prototypes, DMLS for metal fit checks — not one-size-fits-all FDM when accuracy matters.

2

Design Validation Before CNC

Our engineers review your STL for wall thickness, overhangs, and assembly clearance — with notes on what to change before committing to machined tooling.

3

Seamless Scale-Up

Approved print geometry transfers directly to our CNC, sheet metal, or molding teams — same facility, same project manager, no re-uploading files.

Additive Manufacturing Capabilities

Multiple technologies under one roof — so you get the right balance of speed, strength, and surface quality for each stage of development.

SLA Resin

High-resolution stereolithography for concept models, clear parts, and detailed cosmetic prototypes. Smooth surfaces ready for painting or presentation.

SLS Nylon

Selective laser sintering in PA12 and glass-filled nylon. Durable, hinge-capable parts for functional testing, snap fits, and living hinges.

Metal 3D Printing (DMLS)

Direct metal laser sintering in aluminum, stainless, and tool steel. Complex internal channels, lightweight lattice structures, and metal fit-check parts.

Design Validation Before CNC

Engineering review bundled with every quote — wall thickness, draft, tool access, and tolerance feasibility before you pay for subtractive machining.

3D printed prototype parts in resin and nylon

Typical 3D Printing Specifications

Standard capabilities by process. Post-processing and tighter tolerances available on request.

ParameterStandard Capability
SLA layer height0.05 – 0.1 mm
SLS layer height0.08 – 0.12 mm
General tolerance±0.1 – 0.2 mm (process-dependent)
Maximum build envelopeUp to 450 × 450 × 470 mm
Minimum wall thickness0.8 mm SLA; 1.0 mm SLS
SLA lead time1–2 business days typical
SLS / DMLS lead time3–5 business days typical
File formatsSTL, STEP, OBJ, 3MF
Assorted 3D printed engineering prototypes

Materials by Process

Each additive process has distinct material properties. Tell us whether you need appearance, function, or metal strength — we'll recommend the right technology.

Polymers

  • ? Standard & tough SLA resins
  • ? Clear & high-temp SLA
  • ? PA12 SLS nylon

Metals (DMLS)

  • ? AlSi10Mg aluminum
  • ? 316L / 17-4 PH stainless
  • ? Maraging steel (tooling)

Post-processing — sanding, dyeing, vapor smoothing, CNC machining of printed blanks — available in-house. View full material library →

Common 3D Printing Applications

Where additive manufacturing saves time and de-risks downstream production.

Concept Models

High-detail SLA models for investor pitches, trade shows, and early stakeholder reviews before tooling investment.

Fit-Check Prototypes

SLS nylon parts assembled with production hardware to verify clearances, ergonomics, and cable routing.

Jigs & Fixtures

Custom assembly fixtures, inspection gauges, and soft jaws printed overnight for production line setup.

Bridge Tooling

Short-run molds, form tools, and sacrificial patterns for casting — bridging the gap until production tooling arrives.

How Your Print Job Moves — Start to Ship

From file upload to parts in your hands — typically within days.

  1. 1

    Upload File

    Send STL or STEP with intended process and quantity.

  2. 2

    Quote & Review

    Pricing plus geometry feasibility notes within 2 hours.

  3. 3

    Orientation & Slice

    Optimized build orientation for strength and surface quality.

  4. 4

    Print & Finish

    Build, support removal, and optional post-processing.

  5. 5

    Ship Worldwide

    DHL/FedEx express — door to door in 3–7 days.

★★★★★
"They caught a tolerance issue on our first design review that would have cost us a week. Quote came back in under 3 hours with real engineering notes — not just a number."
Mark R.
Mechanical Engineer, US Robotics Startup

Common Questions

SLA vs. SLS — which should I choose? +

Choose SLA for smooth cosmetic surfaces and fine detail. Choose SLS for functional parts that need durability, snap fits, or living hinges without brittle resin behavior.

Can 3D printed parts be used as final production parts? +

SLS nylon and DMLS metal parts can serve low-volume end use. For high volume or tight tolerances, we recommend printing for validation then moving to CNC or molding.

What post-processing options are available? +

Sanding, primer, paint, dye (SLS), vapor smoothing (SLA), bead blast, and CNC machining of critical interfaces on printed blanks.

Do you check my file before printing? +

Yes. Every quote includes a review for manifold geometry, minimum wall thickness, and build feasibility. We'll flag issues before charging for a failed print.

Ready to Start Your Project?

Upload your CAD files and get a detailed quote with DFM feedback within 2 hours. MOQ from 1 piece.

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