FDM & SLS | PLA, PETG, ABS, ASA, TPU, PA12
Additive Manufacturing Services
Rapid prototyping and production-grade 3D printing for engineering, product development, and custom components.
In-House Designs, Prototypes, & Builds
Black Arrow offers multiple additive manufacturing processes and a range of thermoplastic materials suitable for functional parts and small-batch production. We offer:
- Parts up to 13.8 × 12.6 × 12.8 inches
- Nearly every prototype, mechanical component, and custom part.
- Any color—if we don’t have it, we can usually source it.
Because final turnaround depends on part size, material, and quantity, we provide custom quotes. Contact us to request yours.
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What Are Our Printing Processes?
We offer two kinds of printing processes: Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) and Selective Layer Sintering (SLS). FDM deliverables are known for their versatility and fast turnaround, while SLS-printed objects are known for their durability.
Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM)
FDM printing enables rapid prototyping, with parts often ready in hours or days. FDM is cost-effective, supports many materials, and allows post-processing with hardware, such as heat-set inserts.
FDM parts are also anisotropic, meaning their strength changes depending on direction—stronger along the printed layer lines and weaker across them. Our printing process produces a surface finish with visible layer lines created by stacked, melted plastic.
Selective Layer Sintering (SLS)
SLS produces durable nylon parts by using a laser to fuse thermoplastic powder layer by layer, enabling complex geometries without molds or tooling. SLS parts are ideal for functional components and small-batch production runs.
SLS requires no support structures and enables efficient batch manufacturing. Finished parts typically have a grainy surface texture and may exhibit minor porosity.
Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM)
FDM printing enables rapid prototyping, with parts often ready in hours or days. FDM is cost-effective, supports many materials, and allows post-processing with hardware, such as heat-set inserts.
Selective Layer Sintering (SLS)
SLS produces durable nylon parts by using a laser to fuse thermoplastic powder, enabling complex geometries without molds or tooling. SLS parts are ideal for functional components and small-batch production runs.
FDM & SLS | PLA, PETG, ABS, ASA, TPU, PA12
Materials, Finishing, & Build Specifications
We help you choose the best material for prototyping, functional parts, and production needs—whether it’s PLA, PETG, ABS, ASA, TPU, or carbon-fiber reinforced nylon.
Finishing options include:
- Heat-set inserts
- Surface finishing
- Dyeing
- Hardware installation
Contact us for more information on material availability and turnaround times—we’ll work with your team to select the right material for your use case.
PLA
PETG
ABS
ASA
TPU
PA12
How Do Our Lead Times Work?
Our lead times depend on part size, material, print process, and quantity. Small prototypes often finish quickly, while complex builds require more time for production and post-processing.
Most projects take about a week after order approval. We confirm timelines before printing, and provide shipping confirmation with tracking once your order ships.
Your Questions, Answered
What information do you need to provide a quote?
To provide an accurate quote, we need a 3D file (STL, STEP, or OBJ), desired material, quantity, and finishing needs. If you’re unsure about materials or print settings, we can recommend options.
What types of parts are best suited for 3D printing?
3D printing works well for rapid prototypes, functional components, custom tooling, fixtures, and low-volume parts.
How long does it take to receive printed parts?
Lead time depends on part size, material, and quantity. Many prototypes finish in a few days; larger or batch orders may take a week or more.
Can you help review my design before printing?
Yes. We review your design for printability, orientation, wall thickness, and material selection to help ensure your part performs as expected.
Do you offer discounts for larger orders?
Yes. Batch orders and production runs usually reduce cost per part, making additive manufacturing more economical than one-off prototypes.
What file formats do you accept?
We accept STL, STEP, and OBJ files. If your design is in a different CAD format, contact us; we can usually convert or accommodate it.
