3D Printing Services — SLA, SLS & MJF
When you need a part in hand in 2–5 days, 3D printing is the fastest route. SkillsProto runs SLA (resin), SLS (nylon powder) and MJF (multi-jet fusion) — giving UK engineers options for fine detail, tough functional parts and small production batches.
Use 3D printing for fit-checks, design validation, form studies, jigs, fixtures and low-volume end-use parts.
3D printing capabilities overview
| Process | Material | Best For | Tolerance | Layer Height |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SLA | Rigid resin, tough resin, clear resin | Fine details, smooth surfaces | ±0.2 mm | 0.05–0.1 mm |
| SLS | PA12 nylon, PA12 GB | Tough functional parts | ±0.3 mm | 0.1 mm |
| MJF | PA12, PA11, PP | Production-like quality, isotropic | ±0.2 mm | 0.08 mm |
3D printing materials
- SLA resins: standard rigid, engineering tough, durable (ABS-like), clear, castable wax, high-temp.
- SLS / MJF nylons: PA12, PA12 glass-filled, PA11, TPU-like elastomer.
- Composite options: carbon-filled nylon for stiffness, glass-filled for heat resistance.
When to choose each 3D printing process
| Need | Recommended Process |
|---|---|
| Fine detail, smooth surface, concept model | SLA |
| Functional snap fits, living hinges, wear parts | SLS |
| Production batch with consistent quality | MJF |
| Transparent or flow-visualisation parts | SLA clear resin |
| Soft-touch, rubber-like parts | TPU / elastomer SLS |
Finishing for 3D printed parts
- Support removal and light sanding
- Bead blasting — satin matte surface
- Painting and priming — colour matched for presentation models
- Dyeing — available for SLS/MJF nylon parts
- Clear coat — for SLA parts to improve gloss and UV resistance
Design tips for 3D printing
- Minimum wall thickness: 0.8 mm for SLA, 1.0 mm for SLS/MJF.
- Overhangs: SLA needs supports beyond 30°; SLS/MJF are self-supporting.
- Holes: printed holes are often slightly undersized; specify if reaming is needed.
- Moving parts: leave 0.3–0.5 mm clearance for articulated assemblies.
Frequently Asked Questions (3D Printing)
Q1: What is the fastest 3D printing lead time? A: SLA and SLS prototypes can ship in 2–5 working days. MJF is typically 4–7 working days.
Q2: Can 3D printed parts be used as final products? A: Yes, especially SLS and MJF nylon parts. They are durable, chemical-resistant and suitable for end-use brackets, clips and housings.
Q3: What file format do you need? A: STL or 3MF for quoting. STEP is accepted for reference but we will convert it.
Q4: Can you print clear or transparent parts? A: Yes, with SLA clear resin. Optical clarity is good but not injection-moulding grade; light polishing and clear coat help.
Q5: What is the largest part you can 3D print? A: SLA up to 145 × 145 × 175 mm per piece (split and bondable for larger). SLS/MJF up to 380 × 280 × 380 mm. Larger parts can be segmented and bonded.
Get a 3D printing quote
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