Frequently Asked Questions

About 3D Printing

  • 3D printing, also known as additive manufacturing, creates three-dimensional objects layer by layer from a digital model using materials such as plastic, metal, or resin.

  • 3D printing works by layering materials based on a digital 3D model. The printer follows the design and deposits material layer by layer until the complete object is formed.

  • Some advantages of 3D printing include rapid prototyping, customization, cost-effectiveness for small production runs, complex geometries, and the ability to create intricate and detailed designs.

  • Limitations of 3D printing include material restrictions, layer resolution constraints, post-processing requirements, and the time it takes to print large or complex objects.

  • In 3D printing, common defects include warping, poor bridging, unprintable features due to nozzle size limitations, suboptimal surfaces above supports, gaps between infill and outline, and weak infill. These issues arise from factors like material shrinkage, calibration, design considerations, and infill patterns. Addressing them involves adjusting settings, modifying designs, and selecting suitable infill patterns click here for improved print quality.

    For additional information on printing defects, click here to learn more.

  • Electroplating revolutionizes the appearance of 3D prints, particularly in stereolithography (SLA) where smooth surfaces seamlessly blend plastic and metal. This technique empowers designers and manufacturers with the flexibility to choose colors, combine metals, and create visually striking finishes. Additionally, it offers a cost-effective means to replicate the look of expensive materials, elevating aesthetics to new heights.

    For further information on electroplating, click here.

  • 3D printing is used in various industries, including manufacturing, healthcare, automotive, aerospace, education, and consumer goods. It is employed for prototyping, customized products, medical implants, and more.

  • 3D printing has both positive and negative environmental aspects. While it reduces material waste and allows for customization, the use of traditional plastics and energy-intensive printing processes can contribute to environmental harm. Efforts to adopt sustainable materials and energy-efficient practices are crucial to minimizing the negative impact of 3D printing on the environment.

  • There are various types of 3D printers, including Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM), Stereolithography (SLA), Selective Laser Sintering (SLS), and more. Each type has its strengths and is suitable for different applications.

Customer service

  • Additive Inn is located at, 994 Bendemeer Road B, #03-03 Central building, 339943.

  • Achieving optimal 3D-printed part quality relies on selecting the appropriate resolution for your STL file. Although the STEP file format is recommended for its default high quality, editability, and compact file size, STL and 3MF formats may encounter resolution issues, often resulting in large file sizes.

    Wall thickness is crucial, as thin walls may warp or be unprintable. Watch out for problems like overlapping triangles, inverted normals, and noise shells in your STL file, as these can affect print quality. Ensure your model is a solid volume with no gaps, and address issues like bad edges to avoid confusion during printing. Consult with us 3D printing service to select the optimal file resolution for the best results.

    For further information on resolving this issue, click here.

  • Several 3D modeling and design software options are recommended for 3D printing:

    • Mechanical 3D software

      • Fusion 360 (recommenended)

      • Solidworks (recommenended)

      • Onshape (recommenended)

      • Sketchup

      • Rhino 3D

      • Revit

    • Design 3D software

      • Blender

      • ZBrush

      • Maya

      • Cinema 4D

      • 3ds Max

  • There are several websites where you can download 3D files for 3D printing. Here are some popular platforms:

    To find out more click here.

  • For the best outcomes using our 3D printing service, we strongly recommend STEP format. This file format is suggested for its default high quality, editability, and compact file size. In contrast, STL and 3MF formats may encounter resolution problems, often resulting in large file sizes.

  • No limit, if the file size is too big it will be hard to process.

  • To convert your 3D files to STL format, adjust the scale, choose STL as the output format, configure settings, and export the file. Verify its integrity to ensure compatibility with 3D printing applications. For those utilizing alternative software with different export procedures, please click here.

  • The maximum scale for 3D printing varies based on the type and model of the printer. Desktop printers are suitable for smaller objects, while industrial printers can produce larger items, ranging from a few metric in size, depending on the technology and design. Click here to check the specifications of a specific printer for its maximum build volume.

  • Common 3D printing materials include:

    • FDM (PLA)

    • SLA (White ABS)

    • SLS (Nylon)

    • SLM (Aluminium, zinc, titanium)

    Material selection depends on the intended application and desired properties.

    If you're uncertain about the appropriate material for your print, click here for more details or contact us on WhatsApp at (+65) 8923 2984.

  • Colors available for 3D printing depend on the technology. Filament (FDM) offers standard colors and special effects. Resin (SLA/DLP) provides various colors and unique properties. Powder-based (SLS) and binder jetting colors vary with the materials used. Electroplating provides a diverse range of colors, including metallic tones like gold, silver, and bronze. Some printers support full-color printing. Availability may differ among brands.

    For additional information on the colors we offer, please click here,

    Colors for printing: Colors for 3D Printing

    Electroplating colors: Colors for Electroplating

  • Yes, we are here to assist you with design and offer consulting services for your 3D models. Feel free to reach out if you need any help or guidance. Reach us via WhatsApp at (+65) 8923 2984 or schedule your appointments here.

    To gain insights into our 3D design process, click here for more information.

  • While 3D printing offers incredible design flexibility, it also comes with its own set of constraints. Here are some key considerations:

    Material Choice: Select materials based on your specific needs.

    Layer Resolution: Consider the impact on surface finish and detail.

    Overhangs: Minimize to reduce the need for support structures.

    Feature Size: Be aware of minimum sizes for accurate printing.

    Orientation: Optimize for layer adhesion and mechanical properties.

    Tolerance: Design with appropriate allowances for dimensional variations.

    Build Volume: Account for printer size limitations.

  • Yes. Post-processing plays a crucial role in enhancing the final appearance of products in various finishing techniques such as electroplating, spray painting, and airbrushing. Here are some common post-processing options for each of these techniques:

    Electroplating: post-processing steps like buffing, polishing, and clear coating significantly contribute to the final appearance. The smooth, polished surface and protective clear coat result in a high-gloss and aesthetically pleasing finish.

    Spray painting: including clear coating and polishing, play a crucial role in achieving a visually appealing appearance. The glossy finish achieved through these techniques enhances the overall look of the painted surface.

    Airbrushing: the appearance of the artwork is refined through post-processing steps such as sealing, detailing, and topcoating. These techniques add depth, protect the design, and contribute to a visually striking final result.

Purchase services

  • Quoting for 3D printing involves considering factors such as design complexity, material selection, print volume, printing technology, layer resolution, post-processing needs, quantity, lead time, shipping, and file preparation. Service providers assess these elements to provide cost estimates for producing a specific 3D-printed object.

    For further insights into the workings of our quotation services, click here to explore additional details.

  • Do reach out to us via email at sale@additiveinn.com or by phone at (+65) 8923 2984. If you encounter any issues, please do not hesitate to contact us again.

  • We recommend utilizing Paynow and bank transfers; however, cash payments are also accepted if those methods are not feasible for you.

  • Certainly, you have the option to arrange for self-pickups. Kindly specify your preferred pickup timing by please click here to book your slot in your schedule.

  • Delivery for standard service is $5, and it typically takes 2 to 3 days.

  • We offer standard delivery or Grab/Lalamove services with pricing based on timing (peak or non-peak hours) and location.

  • Feel free to forward your files through WhatsApp/Email or arrange an appointment with us.

    Click here to request a quote.