Frequently asked questions

The maximum build volume varies depending on the printing technology. We have different maximum sizes for each technology that we offer through our 3D printing service. You can find more information in our design guide or on the specific technology page. We can also produce larger parts, but in a longer time frame. For more information, please contact us.

Some technologies use support material to hold a specific part in place while it is being printed. FDM and SLA require supports, but SLS does not, which is a significant advantage of SLS technology.

The need for support material is largely based on the geometry of the design. For FDM parts with large overhangs, support material will be required. For SLA, all parts are supported during the printing process.

The supports are printed simultaneously with the part and are positioned to have minimal effect on the surface quality. We remove support materials as part of our standard service.

You can upload STL, OBJ, 3MF, STEP, STP files to our price calculator, as these are some of the standard files used in the 3D printing industry.

Note: Since STL files do not contain information about what unit of measurement was used to create the model, it is important to select the correct units of measurement when uploading them to the calculator, otherwise the dimensions may be incorrect.

If you have other file types, feel free to contact us and we will convert them for you for free.

There are several processes and materials to choose from, which means there are multiple approaches to this question.

By material: If you already know what material you want to use, choosing a 3D printing technology is very simple, as only a few technologies can produce components from the same materials.

By use case: Once you have determined whether the part needs to be functional or aesthetically pleasing, choosing a process is relatively simple. Generally speaking, thermoplastics (plastics) are better suited for functional purposes, while thermosets (resins) are better suited for visual appeal.

You can browse our 3D printing technologies here and compare materials here.

Yes. If you need part marking, contact us and we can review whether it is currently available for your project.

If you need part marking, please contact us or send an email to hello@makeseum.com

Yes. You can read more about our 3D scanning services here and about our reverse engineering services here.

If you need 3D scanning, please contact us or send an email to hello@makeseum.com

Layer height is the height of each individual layer that is produced and is applicable to all 3D printing methods. This affects the resolution level of your part. Standard layer heights are determined by the technology:

• FDM: 50 - 400 microns (most common: 200 microns)
• SLA/DLP: 25 - 100 microns (most common: 50 microns)
• SLS: 80 - 120 microns (most common: 100 microns)

You can adjust the required layer height while placing your order. A finer layer height will result in a higher resolution part. A higher layer height will allow for a faster and more cost-effective print.

FDM is best for durable functional parts, quick iterations, and larger components at a lower cost.

Layer lines are typically visible, depending on layer height, material, and part geometry. Post-processing can improve appearance.

Common options include PLA, PETG, ABS, ASA, TPU, and request-based materials. See the full list on the Materials page.

Typical functional tolerance is around +/-0.3 mm to +/-0.5 mm depending on size and geometry. For critical fits, we recommend a validation prototype.

Yes, in many cases. Final suitability depends on load, temperature, chemical exposure, and UV conditions.

Yes, quantity discounts are applied automatically in the quote system for repeated parts.

SLA is ideal for high detail, smooth surfaces, and small-to-medium parts with precise geometry.

SLA offers one of the best visual finishes among standard 3D printing methods, especially for detailed parts.

It depends on resin type and load profile. For high mechanical stress, FDM or SLS are often better, though engineering SLA resins may fit specific use cases.

Limitations include required supports, resin-dependent brittleness, and build-volume constraints.

Yes, transparent resins are available for visual applications and enclosure concepts with aesthetic focus.

Yes, depending on requirements and material. For biocompatibility needs, we review project-specific options.

SLS uses powder-based material and typically needs no support structures, enabling complex geometry and robust functional parts.

SLS is ideal for complex forms, mechanical strength, low-volume batches, and parts with internal channels or lattice-like features.

Typical tolerance is around +/-0.3 mm to +/-0.5 mm depending on geometry and size. Functional test parts are recommended for assemblies.

Yes, SLS is commonly used for end-use functional parts thanks to strength and design flexibility.

Limitations include maximum build size, a naturally matte/grainy surface, and the need to validate very fine features.

Yes, SLS is an excellent fit for low-volume production with no tooling costs and good repeatability.

Yes. We can work from a physical sample, 3D scan, and measurements to build production-ready CAD.

The workflow includes part assessment, scanning/measurement, CAD reconstruction, critical-dimension validation, and optional test production.

Ideally provide a physical sample, photos, key dimensions, and intended use/load information.

Yes. We can suggest design updates for better durability, manufacturability, and cost efficiency.

We use controlled access and confidentiality workflows, and can operate under additional NDA terms when required.

Yes, this is a common flow: sample -> CAD -> prototype -> low-volume production.