Automation in Post-Processing for 3D Printing
Automation in 3D printing post-processing boosts efficiency, consistency, and speed
Additive Manufacturing Services
Additive manufacturing builds functional parts layer by layer from digital files, with no tooling, no minimum order quantities, and lead times measured in days. From metal LPBF components for aerospace and energy applications to high-performance polymer parts for robotics and medical devices, industrial AM covers the full range of production-grade requirements.
MakerVerse is the on-demand platform for engineering and procurement teams that need certified AM parts at scale without building internal infrastructure.
What Is Additive Manufacturing?
Additive manufacturing is the process of creating three-dimensional objects by adding material layer by layer, guided by a digital design file. This stands in direct contrast to subtractive manufacturing, where CNC machining removes material from a solid block, and formative methods like injection molding, which force material into a pre-made mold to achieve the desired shape.
Per ISO/ASTM 52900, additive manufacturing and 3D printing describe the same layer-by-layer process. However, additive manufacturing is the standardised industrial term, emphasising production-grade quality, repeatability, and material certification. The distinction matters because industrial AM operates on an entirely different level than desktop 3D printing. Material properties, dimensional accuracy, build consistency, and certification requirements separate a functional aerospace bracket from a plastic figurine.
Source Industrial AM Parts
On-demand manufacturing
- Instant quoting and DFM checks
- Short lead times
- Fast and intuitive order placement
Production Orders
- Expert support from end-to-end
- Comprehensive manufacturing and quality plan
- Guaranteed quality meeting advanced specifications
The Make-or-Buy Decision for AM Parts
Should your organization invest in in-house additive manufacturing equipment or outsource to a qualified service provider? The answer depends on several interconnected factors. Industrial metal PBF machines alone cost $250K–$1M+, and that is before factoring in trained operators, DfAM specialists, and post-processing equipment. Machines must run consistently to justify that capital investment, yet many organisations struggle to maintain high utilisation rates.
Add the certification overhead required for regulated industries and a global skilled workforce shortage, and the case for in-house AM becomes harder to make for most teams. The reality is that this is not a binary choice. Many organisations adopt a hybrid approach: keeping commodity prototyping in-house while outsourcing complex parts, multi-technology projects, or certified production components to specialised service providers.
When Outsourcing Beats In-House AM
Certain scenarios make outsourcing the clear winner over building internal AM capacity. If any of the following apply to your situation, a service provider will likely deliver better outcomes at lower risk:
- Low-to-medium volumes: If your demand does not keep machines running consistently, the capital investment in equipment, maintenance, and facility space simply does not pay off.
- Multi-technology projects: A single order may require metal PBF, polymer selective laser sintering, and CNC post-machining. These capabilities are rarely housed under one roof internally.
- Regulated industries: Aerospace and medical device applications require certified processes and documented traceability that take years to build internally.
- Teams lacking DfAM expertise: Design optimisation for additive manufacturing processes requires specialised knowledge that most engineering teams have not developed in-house.
- Speed and predictability: Platforms like MakerVerse offer instant quotes with fixed delivery dates, replacing the weeks-long process of collecting and comparing manual quotes from individual service bureaus.
Post-Processing and Hidden Cost Factors
Post-processing is the most underestimated cost driver in AM procurement. Depending on the application, it can account for 30–60 % of the total part cost. Yet many buyers focus exclusively on the print price when comparing suppliers. The actual production chain involves significantly more steps:
- Support removal
- Stress relief and heat treatment
- Surface finishing (blasting, tumbling, polishing)
- Precision machining of critical interfaces
- Inspection and quality documentation
Many organisations still rely on manual post-processing workflows that slow throughput and produce inconsistent results. Advances in automation in post-processing are beginning to address this bottleneck, but it directly affects lead times, part quality, and the ability to scale serial production reliably.
For procurement teams, the implication is straightforward: post-processing requirements shape total part cost, delivery timelines, and supplier selection. This is precisely why MakerVerse’s quotes include all post-processing steps as a fixed price, eliminating cost surprises and giving you a true total cost of ownership from the start.
How to Choose the Right AM Process and Material
Selecting the optimal additive manufacturing process and material combination is not a guessing game. It depends on six key factors that should guide every sourcing decision. Before requesting a quote, evaluate your part against these criteria:
- Mechanical loads: Tensile strength, fatigue resistance, and hardness requirements determine whether you need a high-performance metal alloy or an engineering polymer.
- Temperature resistance: The operating environment dictates the material class. PEEK handles high-temperature polymer applications, while Inconel withstands extreme heat in turbine environments.
- Geometry complexity: Internal channels, thin walls, and lattice structures favor powder bed fusion. Simpler geometries may be better served by fused deposition modelling or even CNC machining.
- Surface finish requirements: Whether a surface is cosmetic or purely functional drives post-processing decisions and directly affects cost.
- Lot size: Binder jetting excels at high volumes of small parts. PBF suits low-to-medium volumes of complex geometries.
- Certification needs: Aerospace and medical device applications narrow the field to additive manufacturing processes and materials with established qualification data.
Use this framework to narrow your options, then consult the material-process compatibility matrix below for specific process-material pairings.
Additive Manufacturing Technologies
Automation in Post-Processing for 3D Printing
Automation in 3D printing post-processing boosts efficiency, consistency, and speed
Laser Powder Bed Fusion (LPBF)
Laser Powder Bed Fusion (L-PBF) is used to make complex and dimensionally stable metal parts.
Selective Laser Sintering (SLS)
Selective Laser Sintering is capable of building complex polymer parts with high accuracy.
Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM)
Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) is cost-efficient technology offering short lead times.
Multi Jet Fusion (MJF)
Multi Jet Fusion (MJF) is popular technology offering accuracy, short building times, and high output.
Stereolithography (SLA)
SLA uses a high-powered laser and is ideal for intricate prototypes or small-scale production runs.
Additive Manufacturing Materials
What’s the best material for your project?
Try our interactive technology and material advisor to find out
LPBF
SLS
MJF
FDM
LPBF
Aluminium AISi10Mg
Copper Alloy CuNi2SiCr
Copper Alloy CuCrZr
Copper CuCP
Hastelloy X
Inconel 625
Inconel® 718
Scalmalloy AlMgSc
Stainless Steel 17-4PH (1.4542)
Stainless Steel 316L (1.4404)
Titanium Ti6AI4V
Tooling Steel MS1 (1.2709) Aluminium AISi10MgAluminum AlSi10Mg
Main characteristics
A good balance of strength, hardness, and dynamic properties values characterizes this aluminum alloy. Furthermore, AlSi10Mg has good thermal and electrical conductivity. It can also be used for printed parts that have to function in wet environments due to its corrosion resistance.Use cases
AlSi10Mg is often used in housing applications. This aluminum alloy can also be used for functional prototypes due to the possibility of realizing complex parts. Other usage areas are in heat exchangers because of its good thermal conductivity or in lightweight geometries like brackets. Copper Alloy CuNi2SiCrCopper Alloy CuNi2SiCr
Main characteristics
Copper (Cu) is one of the most flexible materials for engineering. It has excellent electrical and thermal conductivity – its thermal conductivity is up to ten times higher than that of many steels. Its good electrical conductivity makes copper well-suited for electrical engineering. Copper is also very resistant to corrosion.The CuNi2SiCr alloy is a thermally hardenable copper-based alloy that combines thermal and electrical conductivity well. It offers good rigidity of the printed part. This alloy also has good corrosion resistance and can generally be used in harsher conditions where pure copper is not suited, thanks to the addition of nickel and silicon.
Use cases
The combination of properties makes CuNi2SiCr ideal for electrical engineering parts, tooling, and parts used by welding technologies. Copper Alloy CuCrZrCopper Alloy CuCrZr
Main characteristics
This copper alloy has an advantageous combination of electrical and thermal conductivity. It also features good mechanical properties, making it a popular material across industries.Use cases
CuCrZr is widely used, for example, for molds and cooling inserts for metal casting, electrodes, welding technology, and current-carrying parts for electro-technology such as induction coils. Copper CuCPCopper CuCP
Main characteristics
Copper (Cu) is one of the most flexible materials for engineering. It has excellent electrical and thermal conductivity – its thermal conductivity is up to ten times higher than that of many steels. Its good electrical conductivity makes copper well-suited and a popular material in electrical engineering. Copper is also very resistant to corrosion. CuCp is a high-purity copper, generally allowing a copper content over 99.95%. Therefore, it is suitable mainly where high electrical or heat conductivity is required.Use cases
Given the characteristics, pure copper (CuCP) is mainly used in applications that include electrical motors, inductors, or other designs required for electrical applications, where high conductivity (both thermal and electrical) is the main criterion for material choice.Prototypes for functional parts are also done using copper. Due to its corrosion resistance, copper is often used in the marine industry. Another specific use case is the use of copper in heat exchangers.
Hastelloy XHastelloy X
Main characteristics
Hastelloy X is a nickel-based alloy containing chromium, iron, and molybdenum. This combination allows for oxidation resistance while allowing high-temperature strength and fabrication simultaneously. It can be easily fabricated and formed due to good flexibility.Use cases
Given its characteristics, this material is mainly used in turbine engines for parts located in the combustion zone, like combustor cans, frame holders, and tailpipes. It can also be used for pipes or valves in industrial furnace applications, chemical processing, and petrochemical industries. Its high usability for pressure vessels and heat exchangers is often used in nuclear and chemical reactors. Inconel 625Inconel 625
Main characteristics
Inconel 625 (IN625) is a nickel-based non-ferrous alloy with good performance in high-temperature environments and exceptional resistance against oxidation. This is mainly because IN625 has less iron and a higher chromium concentration than other alloys. Further, IN625 can withstand high temperatures, much like other nickel superalloys.Use cases
Given its strong corrosion resistance, Inconel 625 is ideal for environments involving harsh chemicals or seawater. This also makes it suitable for chemical processing and waste/pollution management applications. IN625 is commonly used for jet engine parts, high- or low-pressure valves, turbine shroud rings, flare stacks, or heat exchangers. Inconel® 718Inconel® 718
Main characteristics
Inconel 718 (IN718) is a nickel-based superalloy with good performance in high-temperature environments. This is mainly because IN718 has good mechanical properties up to 700 °C. Furthermore, the metal has excellent oxidation and corrosion resistance, making it an ideal fit in demanding environments. Another advantage is the high strength of the material.Use cases
IN718 is ideal for challenging use cases, such as those involving the aerospace or energy industry. It is often used in gas turbine parts, which withstand high forces and temperatures. This also makes the material ideal for exhaust components. Another everyday use is in the chemical industry, especially oil, for pipes or valves. Scalmalloy AlMgScScalmalloy AlMgSc
Main characteristics
Scalmalloy is an aluminum-magnesium alloy that contains a comparatively high amount of scandium. This specific blend of elements gives Scalmalloy an improved strength over traditional casting alloys. Scalmalloy has a high tensile strength and low material density, comparable to titanium-based alloys at room temperatures. Additionally, it shows excellent corrosion resistance and allows for electric conductivity. Scalmalloy is an approved material under FIA regulations.Use cases
Aluminum-based alloys like Scalmalloy are ideal for lightweight engineering. It’s frequently used in structural components for light construction industries like aircraft or high-performance cars, where every kilogram of weight matters. Other typical use cases are applications in robotics, semiconductor machinery, and high-quality prototypes. Stainless Steel 17-4PH (1.4542)Stainless Steel 17-4PH (1.4542)
Main characteristics
The stainless-steel material 17-4 PH is characterized by high yield strength and good corrosion resistance. It is a multipurpose steel that can be heat-treated to a hardness of 34 HRC with a tensile strength of 95% compared to the forged material. The steel can be welded using tungsten inert gas (TIG) welding or electric arc welding processes.Use cases
17-4 PH is capable of high-strength, robust metal parts often used for industrial applications. Stainless Steel 316L (1.4404)Stainless Steel 316L (1.4404)
Main characteristics
316L is a stainless steel that stands out due to its excellent corrosion resistance, making it an excellent fit for printed parts used in moist environments. Due to its good machinability, parts out of 316L can easily be reworked or enhanced with further features. Furthermore, 316L has a high elasticity.Use cases
316L is used in various aerospace, automotive, food, and energy applications. It is also used for components like pipes and valves in the chemical industry. Another typical use case is wristwatch cases and bracelets. Titanium Ti6AI4VTitanium Ti6AI4V
Main characteristics
Titanium is used extensively due to its high strength, low weight ratio, and high corrosion and oxidation resistance. All these properties make titanium and its alloys attractive materials for various use cases and industries.Use cases
Due to titanium’s biocompatibility, it is used for medical and dental applications. Its high strength and comparatively low weight make it appealing for high-performance parts like gearboxes and connecting rods in racing cars and bionic brackets in the aviation industry. Tooling Steel MS1 (1.2709)Tooling Steel MS1 (1.2709)
Main characteristics
This tooling steel, or MS1, is characterized by high tensile strength and toughness. It can be used in higher temperatures since its mechanical properties remain stable up to approximately 400°C. Another advantage of 1.2709 is that its mechanical properties can be optimized through heat treatment and martensitic hardening.Use cases
1.2709 has various use cases. For example, it is often used for tooling inserts for injection molding, extrusion tool inserts, or functional prototypes. Furthermore, this tooling steel can be used for tooling and fixtures. Due to its high strength, it is regularly used in motorsports and aviation.SLS
PA 11
PA 12
PA 12 Glass-filled (GF)
PA 12 Al-filled
PA 12 Flame Retardant (FR) PA 11PA 11
Main characteristics
PA 11 is a bio-based polymer and provides excellent mechanical properties. Its high ductility and impact strength make it attractive for functional parts in various industries such as automotive. PA 11 parts can also be dyed and are biocompatible, which is why it is used increasingly in the orthotics sector for small series and individualized parts.Use cases
Typical applications for PA 11 include interior parts for automotive, prosthetics and orthotics, and functional prototypes. PA 12PA 12
Main characteristics
PA 12 is a polyamide (PA) and and a standard Selective Laser Sintering (SLS) material. This material combines high strength with long-term stability. Further advantages of PA 12 lie in its chemical resistance and biocompatibility. Therefore, the medical industry often uses this material for various applications.Use cases
PA 12 is usually used for fully functional prototypes and end-use parts. One specific application area is in the orthopedic sector due to PA 12’s biocompatibility. PA 12 Glass-filled (GF)PA 12 Glass-filled (GF)
Main characteristics
PA 12 GF is a polyamide filled with glass beads. This filling makes the material ideal for long-term usability. This plastic can withstand high thermal loads and combines high density and tensile strength.Use cases
PA 12 GF is often used for fully functional prototypes. Furthermore, it is often used for end-use parts, e.g., in the automotive industry, where it can be placed near high-temperature environments. PA 12 Al-filledCopper Alloy CuCrZr
Main characteristics
PA 12 Al-filled is a polyamide filled with aluminum (Al)—the aluminum sealing results in a metallic-looking appearance. One of the significant advantages of PA 12 Al-filled is its excellent dimensional stability at high temperatures combined with the light weight of plastic. In addition, surfaces can be finished by grinding, polishing, or coating, resulting in even more possibilities to individualize each part regarding the specific use case.Use cases
Popular applications for PA 12 Al-filled include fully functional prototypes and jigs and fixtures. Another everyday use case is components that must operate under high temperatures and significant stress. PA 12 Flame Retardant (FR)PA 12 Flame Retardant (FR)
Main characteristics
PA 12 FR is a polyamide with a special chemical flame retardant. This makes the material particularly suitable for industries requiring such flame retardancy from a safety or regulatory perspective. Additionally, it offers a high tensile strength.Use cases
PA 12 FR is approved for specific aerospace applications, making it popular for interior components in aircraft. It is also used in passive parts for electronic components.MJF
PA 11 
PA 12 
TPU PA 11 PA 11
Main characteristics
An elongation at break up to 40 % (depending on build direction) combined with a high impact resistance makes PA 11 in MJF a desirable option for mechanically stressed parts. The material is made from a renewable raw material and is biocompatible, which means it is approved for skin contact, for example.Use cases
They mechanically stressed parts where high flexibility is needed. Typical use cases are functional prototypes or lower limb prosthetics.Lead time
7 days PA 12 PA 12
Main characteristics
PA12 can be well processed in the Multi Jet Fusion process with attractive costs and high reusability of already used powder. Components also have beautiful mechanical properties and provide chemical resistance, e.g., against oils and greases, which makes them suitable for functional parts.Use cases
Typical use cases are functional prototyping or printing of prosthetics and orthotics.Lead time
7 days TPU TPU
Main characteristics
TPU allows flexible elastomeric parts to be produced with the advantages of the MJF process. This material-process combination is ideal whenever high elasticity or shock absorption with high design freedom is required.Use cases
TPU is often used for robotic clamps or elastic covers and folding bellows. Another specific use case is for energy-absorbing parts that prevent accidents, like a helmet.Lead time
9 daysFDM
ABS-ESD7 
ABS-M30 
ABS-M30i 
ASA 
PC 
PC-ABS 
ULTEM® 1010 
ULTEM® 9085 ABS-ESD7 ABS-ESD7
Main characteristics
ABS-ESD7 is a blend of ABS with carbon. This results in a robust, durable material with electrostatic discharge properties (ESD). The ESD feature mitigates product damage by preventing the buildup of static electricity. This serves as ABS-ESD7’s main differentiator from other FDM materials.Use cases
With its ESD properties, ABS-ESD7 is often used for components in the electronics industry, such as electronic fixtures, housings, or customized packaging. It’s also an excellent choice in environments with an increased risk of explosions from sparks. That’s why this is the preferred choice for parts involving fuel tanks and the packaging of dangerous goods.Lead time
6 days ABS-M30 ABS-M30
Main characteristics
ABS M30 is a modified acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) material combining strength and durability with low weight and a high load capacity. The material provides a good compromise between mechanical properties, cost, and accuracy. It also has better mechanical properties than conventional ABS.Use cases
ABS M30 is often used for loaded functional prototypes, production gears, jigs and fixtures, and manufacturing tools. It’s ideal for form and fit testing. Thanks to its versatility and affordable price, it’s widely used across industries.Lead time
6 days ABS-M30i ABS-M30i
Main characteristics
Main characteristics ABS M30i has properties similar to ABS M30: high strength and durability combined with low weight and a high load capacity. However, according to ISO 10993 and USP Class VI, this material is biocompatible and can be sterilized.Use cases
This material is helpful for parts requiring biocompatibility, high strength, and the possibility of sterilization. For example, some applications include surgical aids, medical devices, and manufacturing tools for the food industry. It’s an attractive option for parts that come into contact with skin.Lead time
6 days ASA ASA
Main characteristics
ASA filament is the ideal general-purpose thermoplastic and is suitable for various applications. It has a chemical structure comparable to ABS but offers improved mechanical properties, surface finish, and UV resistance. ASA is available in 10 different colors.Use cases
With its variety of color options and high aesthetics, ASA is the most popular FDM material for polymer prototypes of industrial-grade quality. Thanks to its high UV resistance, it can be ideally used for outside applications. It is also often used in aesthetic consumer goods prototypes and the automotive industry.Lead time
6 days PC PC
Main characteristics
Polycarbonate (PC) combines good mechanical properties such as impact resistance, strength, rigidity, and hardness with high temperature, dimensional stability, and heat resistance.Use cases
PC is typically used for jigs and fixtures, cases, and visual models.Lead time
6 days PC-ABS PC-ABS
Main characteristics
PC-ABS is an ideal choice when the temperature resistance of polycarbonates (PC) and the flexural strength of ABS are required. This unique blend of both materials stands out with its high-impact strength, especially at low temperatures.Use cases
PC-ABS is applicable for solid tools and functional prototypes. It is frequently used in the automotive and electronics industry.Lead time
6 days ULTEM® 1010 ULTEM® 1010
Main characteristics
ULTEM 1010 is a high-performance thermoplastic polyetherimide (PEI). It offers the highest heat resistance, tensile strength, and chemical resistance. It also possesses the lowest coefficient of thermal expansion among all FDM materials. It’s ideal for challenging and highly specialized applications.Use cases
ULTEM 1010 is frequently used across industries for high-strength jigs and lightweight composite tooling. Certified grade ULTEM can also be used for food contact production tools and customized medical applications.Lead time
8 days ULTEM® 9085 ULTEM® 9085
Main characteristics
ULTEM is one of the so-called high-performance thermoplastics. Its outstanding strength makes it an alternative to metallic materials. Together with the property of flame retardancy, the material is prevalent in the aviation and rail industries.Use cases
ULTEM materials are used for flame-retardant parts required in planes or trains. Due to its low toxicity, PEI-based polymers can also be used for medical and food components.Lead time
8 daysDidn't find the material you are looking for?
We are constantly expanding and you can request specific materials going beyond our current standardized offering. Simply select “Other Material” in the order process and provide us your desired specifications in the comment section. You can also reach out to us with your specific material requests
Finishes for Additive Manufacturing
Automation in Post-Processing for 3D Printing
3d-printing
Automation in 3D printing post-processing boosts efficiency, consistency, and speed
Blasted
LPBF MJF SLS
An abrasive medium is applied to the component under high pressure. By using different media (e.g. corundum, sand or glass beads), both functional (achieving a certain surface roughness) and optical (polishing the surface) finishing can be performed.
Color dyed
FDM MJF SLS
In the dyeing process, the plastic component is immersed in a water bath. The resulting chemical reaction causes the dye to penetrate the component. Characteristics of this are, on the one hand, a homogeneous color gradient and, on the other hand, an unchanging but more scratch-resistant surface.
Heat treated
LPBF
The material is heated to a desired temperature. After reaching and remaining at this temperature, the material is cooled back down. For specifications of the heat treatment procedures carried out for each material, visit the corresponding data sheets.
Painted
FDM LPBF MJF SLS
To get the desired output the part is properly prepared through accurate cleaning and by applying a clearcoat. Painting can be particularly useful to enhance the design of your printed part or to facilitate the evaluation of a printed prototype.
Polished
LPBF
Polishing is a finishing process for smoothing a workpiece's surface by using an abrasive. By repeating this process throughout different stages with reduced roughness of the abrasive, you create a smooth and polished surface.
Sanded
FDM MJF SLS
Sanding is performed for smoothing the part and removing any obvious blemishes, such as support marks or blobs using sandpaper. The chosen sandpaper depends on the layer height and print quality desired.
Sealed
FDM MJF SLS
The sealing process is performed with an aqueous solution to close the outer surface or skin of the part and fill in small pores that could be in the part’s surface. The sealing solution is manually applied or through dipping depending on the part’s geometry.
Smoothed
FDM MJF SLS
In the smoothing process, the plastic component is reworked by a chemical reaction. The top layer of the component is dissolved by a medium in a solution bath and the result is a very smooth surface.
Tumbled
FDM LPBF MJF SLS
In tumbling, the metal or plastic part is reworked by grinding media in a container. The parts are deburred, finely ground and polished by vibration or rotation of the container.
Automation in Post-Processing for 3D Printing
3d-printing
Automation in 3D printing post-processing boosts efficiency, consistency, and speed
Blasted
LPBF MJF SLS
An abrasive medium is applied to the component under high pressure. By using different media (e.g. corundum, sand or glass beads), both functional (achieving a certain surface roughness) and optical (polishing the surface) finishing can be performed.
Color dyed
FDM MJF SLS
In the dyeing process, the plastic component is immersed in a water bath. The resulting chemical reaction causes the dye to penetrate the component. Characteristics of this are, on the one hand, a homogeneous color gradient and, on the other hand, an unchanging but more scratch-resistant surface.
Heat treated
LPBF
The material is heated to a desired temperature. After reaching and remaining at this temperature, the material is cooled back down. For specifications of the heat treatment procedures carried out for each material, visit the corresponding data sheets.
Painted
FDM LPBF MJF SLS
To get the desired output the part is properly prepared through accurate cleaning and by applying a clearcoat. Painting can be particularly useful to enhance the design of your printed part or to facilitate the evaluation of a printed prototype.
Polished
LPBF
Polishing is a finishing process for smoothing a workpiece's surface by using an abrasive. By repeating this process throughout different stages with reduced roughness of the abrasive, you create a smooth and polished surface.
Sanded
FDM MJF SLS
Sanding is performed for smoothing the part and removing any obvious blemishes, such as support marks or blobs using sandpaper. The chosen sandpaper depends on the layer height and print quality desired.
Sealed
FDM MJF SLS
The sealing process is performed with an aqueous solution to close the outer surface or skin of the part and fill in small pores that could be in the part’s surface. The sealing solution is manually applied or through dipping depending on the part’s geometry.
Smoothed
FDM MJF SLS
In the smoothing process, the plastic component is reworked by a chemical reaction. The top layer of the component is dissolved by a medium in a solution bath and the result is a very smooth surface.
Tumbled
FDM LPBF MJF SLS
In tumbling, the metal or plastic part is reworked by grinding media in a container. The parts are deburred, finely ground and polished by vibration or rotation of the container.
DfAM: Design Decisions That Reduce Cost
Design for Additive Manufacturing review should happen before quoting, not after a failed build. DfAM principles directly impact production cost, lead time, and part quality. Ignoring them is one of the most expensive mistakes teams make when sourcing additively manufactured parts. Here are the key principles to apply:
- Wall thickness: Minimum wall thicknesses vary by process. PBF-LB metal requires at least 0.4 mm, while SLS polymer needs 0.8 mm. Going below these thresholds causes build failures and wasted material costs.
- Build orientation: Orientation affects surface quality, support requirements, and mechanical properties due to anisotropy. Optimising orientation can reduce support material by 30–50 %.
- Support minimization: Self-supporting angles, typically greater than 45° from horizontal, reduce post-processing time and cost significantly.
- Part consolidation: AM enables combining multiple assembled components into a single printed part. This reduces assembly steps, fasteners, and potential failure points across the final product.
- Feature optimisation: Avoid unnecessarily tight tolerances on non-critical features. AM achieves tighter tolerances through post-machining, which adds cost. Reserve precision where it actually matters.
MakerVerse offers optional DfAM review as part of the quoting process, catching design issues before they become expensive production problems. This step alone can prevent failed builds and reduce total part cost substantially.
On-Demand AM Procurement at MakerVerse
MakerVerse makes ordering additive manufacturing parts simple: upload a CAD file, receive an instant quote with a fixed price and guaranteed delivery date, select your preferred technology and material, place the order, and receive quality-inspected parts at your door. The entire cycle compresses to 1–3 weeks. That means a reduction in procurement cycle time of up to 75 %, freeing engineering and purchasing teams to focus on higher-value work instead of chasing quotes.
MakerVerse’s platform was built to address the specific pain points covered throughout this article. Here is how each challenge maps to a concrete platform capability:
- Technology selection complexity: The platform guides users through compatible additive manufacturing processes and material options based on the uploaded geometry, eliminating guesswork.
- Supplier qualification burden: A vetted supplier network with ISO 9001-certified processes means MakerVerse takes accountability for quality, so you do not need to audit individual service bureaus.
- Unpredictable pricing: Instant, fixed-price quotes are generated directly from CAD file analysis. There are no hidden post-processing surcharges or surprise line items after the fact.
- Unreliable delivery dates: Guaranteed delivery dates are stated at the point of quoting, giving your project timeline the predictability it needs.
- DfAM expertise gap: An optional manual engineering review is available for complex geometries or non-standard requirements, catching design issues before they become costly build failures.
- Budget constraints: When the automated quote exceeds your budget, you can submit a target price for manual feasibility review. MakerVerse’s team then evaluates whether the price is achievable.
Start Your AM Project in Seconds
Skip the wait and traditional RFQ processes. Upload your CAD file to MakerVerse and instantly access a fully vetted industrial additive manufacturing supply chain.
✓ Instant Quotes: AI-powered pricing and DFM checks in seconds.
✓ All AM Technologies: LPBF, SLS, MJF, FDM, SLA & more.
✓ End-to-End Fulfilment: From functional prototypes to certified serial production.
FAQ: Frequently asked questions about Additive Manunfacturing
What is the difference between additive manufacturing and 3D printing?
Both terms describe the same layer-by-layer process. Per ISO/ASTM 52900, additive manufacturing is the standardised industrial term, emphasising production-grade quality, repeatability, and certified materials. “3D printing” is more common in consumer and prototyping contexts. In professional procurement, using “additive manufacturing” signals industrial seriousness and aligns with established standards.
Which AM process is best for metal parts?
Laser powder bed fusion (PBF-LB) is the most widely used process for industrial metal 3D printing, delivering high precision for complex geometries. Directed energy deposition (DED) suits large-format parts and repairs. Binder jetting is emerging for high-volume small metal components. The best choice depends on geometry, material, tolerances, and certification requirements.
At what volume does AM become more expensive than CNC or injection molding?
In-house AM requires significant capital investment, skilled technicians, post-processing equipment, and certification infrastructure. Outsourcing to a digital platform like MakerVerse provides access to multiple additive manufacturing technologies, qualified suppliers, and quality assurance without the overhead. It is the practical choice for teams needing multi-technology flexibility.
How do I choose between in-house AM and outsourcing?
AM eliminates tooling costs, making it typically more cost-effective for low-volume production and complex parts. Injection molding becomes economical at higher quantities (often 500+ units), while CNC machining competes on simpler geometries at moderate volumes. The crossover point varies significantly based on part complexity, material, and post-processing needs.
Additive Manufacturing Resources
Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM)
Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) is cost-efficient technology offering short lead times.
Multi Jet Fusion (MJF)
Multi Jet Fusion (MJF) is popular technology offering accuracy, short building times, and high output.
Stereolithography (SLA)
SLA uses a high-powered laser and is ideal for intricate prototypes or small-scale production runs.