Frequently Asked Questions
What is it that you do?
- We sell and service 3D Printers, 3D Scanners, 3D Printer Filament and Filament Recyclers to businesses of any size.
- We assist companies in designing 3D parts and files, and preparing parts to be 3D printed.
- We train personnel on the use of 3D Printers.
- We 3D Print parts as-a-service.
- Based on hand-drawings, 2D/3D CAD files, or even just an idea, we can provide 3D printed parts in small or large quantities.
- We Design 3D Parts for production
- Our speciality is designing 3D Parts for mechanical applications. See our design portfolio here.
- We have an online store that carries our line of Grid Tactical products as well as other products.
What is a 3D Printer?
A 3D Printer is a machine that can turn almost any 3D shape into a plastic part. It can use a variety of thermoplastics including those that are soft and rubbery, stiff and strong, temperature and UV-resistant, and carbon-fiber-infused plastics for maximum strength. It is a revolutionary tool for industry and business.
Why does my business need a 3D printer?
The short answer: Incredible benefits for a very low cost.
Architecture and Design:
A 3D model can tell the story of what your firm desires to create, far more than any blueprint or concept painting. Your designers, producers, and clients can awe at a tangible prototype of the final building or product; and instinctively notice any faults or issues.
If a picture speaks one thousand words, than a model speaks thirty-one thousand, six hundred and twenty three words (it’s simple math: (√1000 words)^3 = 31,622.77 words)
Prototyping and Production
3D Printing is an invaluable resource for prototyping as well as for small-mid scaled mass-production. Our firm can set-up a variety of options for ‘3D-print-farms’ that can churn out parts at a remarkable wait with nearly no down-time or set-up-time.
Where can I find part to 3d print?
Online
There are countless free 3d-printable plans online at websites such as Thingiverse and Printables.
Designed to meet your needs by us
We are a fully-equipped design studio with a focus on making working solutions, not just parts. Whether you’re looking for electronics housings, automotive parts, tactical gear, tools, or something else entirely, we can make it happen.
Do I need my own 3D printer?
Not necessarily. We are happy to provide 3D printed parts as a service, which we do at a rate that most services can’t beat.
We’ve provided some positives to owning a printer or choosing ‘print-as-a-service’.
| Owning and Operating Printers | Printing as a Service with 3DS3 |
|---|---|
| Printers installed through 3DS3 are properly optimized and calibrated for efficient and clean prints. | Production is full-service. Give us the designs and the word, and soon you’ll have the model in hand. |
| Staff can be quickly trained on the important details of printing. These machines become easier to use than the copier! | No office-space, electricity, or man-power need be devoted to getting excellent parts. |
| Great for prototyping. They can get the parts in just hours at only the cost of the plastic used | Great for limited-run production, as there’s no worry about owning another machine. |
| Great for small-mid sized but full-time production. If you want to make parts continually for your business, this is an inexpensive and great option. | Great for supplemental production. |
| Regular and speedy repair and maintenance is available through 3DS3, making down-time history. |
Aren’t 3D printers difficult to operate?
Not at all! 3D printing has increased in user experience so much in recent years that they have become as easy, or in many ways easier than using a traditional paper-printer.
What kind of lead time can I expect?
The time to ship the printer, plus 1-3 days to get the printer prepared in your environment. Most printers ship within a week, but some industry grade printers that come from the Czech Republic may take much longer.