Services – 3D Sprout

3D PRINTING SERVICES

At 3D Sprout, we use professional grade printers that provide quality prints and quick turnarounds.

Here are a few of the options we offer:

FDM PRINTING

(FUSED DEPOSITION MODELING)

Fused Deposition Modeling uses a thermoplastic filament, which is heated then extruded through a nozzle and layered to create a printed part. Think of a glue gun, as it heats up the glue, it is extruded through the nozzle, but then think of each layer being laid down on top of the previous layer until a 3D part is completed.

Once the print is completed, the part is removed and soaked in liquid detergent to remove the supports.

ADVANTAGES OF FDM PRINTS

Lower print cost
More durable prints
Great for prototypes used for fit and function
Parts can be printed in sliced layers of .013”, .010”, .007” and .005”.

POLYJET PRINTING

Polyjet technology is the use of a photopolymer material that is sprayed in ultrathin layers and cured by UV light. Layering can range from 32 microns to a mere 16-micron layer. The photopolymer materials cure to form rigid hard plastics or flexible rubber-like materials.

Once the print is completed, parts are soaked in a detergent bath to remove all support.

ADVANTAGES OF POLYJET PRINTS

Ultra high-resolution prints that produce smooth and highly detailed parts
Accurate prints in complex geometries
Variety of materials available

3D MODELING AND DESIGN

Design and 3D modeling are two different processes. During the design phase we can assist in developing your concept. This process may include aesthetic design, functional design or both.

Once the design process is completed, we can move on to the modeling stage. Here, CAD modelers or digital sculptors will take those designs and create a 3D model that can be printed. Our modelers and sculptors use a variety of software to get you the file you want and in the format best suited for your needs.

RTV MOLDS AND CASTINGS

3D Sprout also offers RTV(room temp-vulcanization) molds (aka silicone molds). These RTV molds can be used to replicate a master you provide or a 3D print grown in our shop. The advantage of using RTV molds is that in some instances, the cost of a 3D print may prohibit printing multiple copies. RTV molds provide a more cost-effective way of duplicating a 3D printed part.

The RTV molds also allow for the use of casting in a variety of resins that better mimic final production parts or more durable parts. Resins can be pigmented or cast in clear depending on your individual project needs.