Innovative Material Applications
3D printing utilizes the same tried-and-true thermoplastic materials used in injection molding to create functional parts with excellent mechanical properties - combining known materials with digital fabrication technology. I stock a selection of materials with a range of mechanical properties, and can help you select the best materials to create the functional parts you’re looking for.
PETG
An excellent general purpose material for producing sturdy mechanical parts. For parts that need to look their best, PETG can be sprayed with a matte clear coat to create a uniform finish.
Common items made from PETG: plastic bottles, food containers
Stock color: Gray-blue
Other colors available on request
Nylon
An extremely tough engineer grade material that produces high-strength / high-durability mechanical parts.
Common items made from Nylon: zip ties, plastic fasteners, guitar strings
Stock color: Black
CF Nylon
This exceptionally stiff engineer grade material combines a nylon base with chopped carbon fibers to produce parts with a strength to weight ratio rivaling aluminum.
Stock color: Black
TPU
A flexible material with a shore hardness of 95A (similar to a skateboard wheel). This material can be printed fully dense, or with low-infill to alter the flexibility of parts and create “rubbery” behaviors.
Common items made from TPU: caster wheels, drive belts, footwear
Stock color: Light brown