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Frequently Asked Questions

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FAQ

Below are our frequently asked questions. 
If you do not see your question, please contact us

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Cost and Time Savings – Additive manufacturing swiftly creates product prototypes – an increasingly critical function that significantly reduces the traditional trial-and-error process – so new products can enter the market more quickly. Likewise, it can promptly create unique or specialized metal products that can replace worn or broken industrial parts. That means companies can avoid costly shut downs and drastically compress the time it takes to machine a replacement part. With additive manufacturing, once a CAD drawing is created the replacement part can be printed. Storage of bulky patterns and tooling is virtually eliminated.

Environmental Impact – Additive Manufacturing produces less waste – Since the process involves adding layers of material to create a part or product vrs subtracting material there is much less waste to be recycled using additive manufacturing processes.

Yes! In traditional manufacturing, objects are created in a subtractive manner as metals are trimmed and shaped to fit together properly. This process creates substantial waste that can be harmful to the environment. Additive manufacturing is a very energy efficient and environmentally friendly manufacturing option.

There are many components, parts and proto-types that can be made using the additive manufacturing process, however there are certain situations that are best served using traditional manufacturing methods, including “touch-up’s” or “tweek’s” of printed parts that can only be done using traditional precision machining process’s. This is generally found within the corporate arena such as high tech components, aeronautics, military, automotive or any other situation that would require more of a high precision “fit”. This is not generally required when dealing with more cosmetic components such as jewelry, art, knick-knacks, or other such objects/items that are more cosmetic than functional. 3DX Industries can handle either situation which is a great benefit to our customers as we are truly a one-stop-shop for their manufacturing needs.

  • The process begins with a CAD file provided by you or created by us.
  • The M-Flex’s built-in software slices the CAD file into very thin layers (0.004 – 0.006 inch) (0.1 –0.15 mm).
  • The machine spreads a layer of powdered metal in the build box.
  • A printhead moves across the layer, depositing liquid binder according to the design for that layer.
  • The layer dries and the build box is lowered slightly.
  • A new layer of powdered material is spread, repeating this process until all layers have been completed.
  • The build box now contains a fully printed and bound part, surrounded by loose powder (which acts as a support). The part is considered in a “green state” at this point and very fragile.
  • The printed part is depowdered and goes into a furnace for sintering, which burns out the binder and fuses the metal molecules making a hardened part, approximately 60% dense.
  • Metal parts are now strong and can be handled but still contain tiny internal gaps. Therefore, infiltration (a second thermal process) is required to bring parts up to full density. The M-Flex Materialization Systems typically utilize a bronze infiltrant.

Thermally-processed metal parts are near 100% density and can be used functionally – not only as prototypes. A variety of finishing options are available, including protective coats and plating.

Metal Printing (Binder Jetting - M‑Flex System):
We print in stainless steel (420, 316, J‑10 BLDRMetal™, J‑11 BLDRMetal™) and offer infiltrants such as bronze, copper, and tin. Our team can also work with new or custom metal powders-perfect for prototypes or production parts. Contact us to explore tailored solutions.

Polymer & Resin Printing (FDM & MSLA):
We provide additive manufacturing using high-performance thermoplastics and a wide range of industrial resins. From rapid prototyping to functional end-use parts, we help you choose the right materials and processes for your project.

CNC Machining:
Our subtractive capabilities include machining in tool steel, aluminum, industrial-grade plastics, stainless steel, copper, and titanium. CNC machining complements our 3D printing services by providing precision finishing and functional components.

Yes. While our primary focus is on industrial applications, we have the capability to produce everything from small, highly detailed items - including jewelry, decorative, and non-industrial components - to full-scale production runs in metal and plastic.

Using advanced additive manufacturing systems, we support a broad spectrum of parts - from functional prototypes and custom specialty components to high-volume serialized production - all built to meet the stringent standards of precision, repeatability, and material performance required in demanding industrial environments.

Whether your project calls for a one-off prototype or thousands of production parts, we have the expertise, equipment, and infrastructure to deliver reliably and at scale.

At 3DX Industries, we operate a state-of-the-art additive manufacturing and precision machining facility.

Additive Manufacturing:
We have two M-Flex binder jet metal printers along with all the necessary support equipment for printing, sintering, and finishing metal parts. Our additive capabilities also include multiple FDM and MSLA polymer printers, enabling both detailed prototypes and small to medium production runs.

Precision Machining:
Our full-service machine shop features 7 vertical machining centers with 4th axis capabilities, spindle speeds up to 15,000 RPM, and travel up to 96 inches. We also operate precision lathes and a variety of auxiliary machines to support both our additive manufacturing processes and customer machining needs.

If you have a project that requires additive manufacturing or precision machining, contact us to discuss how we can help.

We do not offer tours to the public at this time. If you are with an educational institution and would like to have a tour of our facility please contact us to discuss.