3D PRINTING MATERIALS
Choose additive material through process, function and finish.
Start with how the part will be used, then compare thermal behavior, flexibility, detail, layer orientation and post-processing.
PROCESS + MATERIAL
Four practical additive material routes
Material names alone are not enough. The printing process changes strength direction, detail, support, porosity and surface outcome.
Useful for concept models, fixtures and larger low-cost parts where layer direction and support strategy matter.
High-detail surfaces and fine features for visual, fit and fluid-path prototypes.
Support-free powder-bed parts for functional geometry, nesting and durable prototypes.
Functional polymer parts with balanced detail, repeatability and post-processing options.
SELECTION METHOD
Define the performance envelope before choosing a resin or polymer
Use the application, not a generic ranking, to narrow the route.
Function
Prototype appearance, assembly fit, fixture duty or end-use load.
Environment
Temperature, UV, moisture, chemicals and sterilization exposure.
Geometry
Wall thickness, overhangs, trapped powder, support access and orientation.
Finish
Color, texture, sealing, coating, dyeing and dimensional verification.
MATERIAL SELECTION BY PROCESS
Representative materials, connected to the process that will shape them
Compare material families by manufacturing route, then confirm the exact grade, supplied form and project requirements during engineering review.
Choose a process below to compare representative materials. Swipe the process tabs on smaller screens.
FDM
Representative materials
- ABS
- PLA
- Carbon-fiber nylon
- TPU
SLA
Representative materials
- Clear resin
- White resin
- Black resin
- Yellow resin
SLS
Representative materials
- PA12
- PA12-CF
MJF
Representative materials
- PA12
- PA12-CF
SLM / Metal 3D Printing
Representative materials
- Aluminum
- Stainless steel
- Titanium
Application-specific polymers: medical, food-contact and regulated-use topics require project-specific material and compliance confirmation; they are not presented as automatic production-capability claims.
Match the process and material to the real part requirement
Send geometry, quantity, functional surfaces and service conditions for a focused additive review.