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3D printing
FDM and resin 3D printing for prototypes, replacement parts, fixtures, and short production runs, from a single part to hundreds.
We 3D print prototypes, fixtures, replacement parts, and short production runs in our shop in Spanish Fork, Utah, and ship anywhere in the US. Upload your model for an instant quote, or send a sketch and we'll design it for you.
Two kinds of 3D printing
| FDM (filament) | Resin (MSLA) | |
| Best for | Strong, functional parts, fixtures, brackets, enclosures | Small parts with fine detail and smooth surfaces |
| Part size | Small parts to large ones; ask about anything big | Small, detailed parts |
| Surface | Visible layer lines | Very fine layers, close to smooth |
| Materials | PLA, ABS, Nylon, TPU | Standard, tough, and flexible resins |
Not sure which you need? Choose "Not sure" on the quote page and we'll recommend one.
Materials
- PLA is stiff and prints cleanly. Good for prototypes and parts that stay at room temperature; it softens in a hot car.
- ABS is tougher and handles more heat than PLA. Good for enclosures and parts that get handled.
- Nylon is tough and wears well. Good for gears, clips, hinges, and parts under load.
- TPU is flexible and rubbery. Good for gaskets, bumpers, grips, and seals.
- Resin captures fine detail. Good for small housings, figures, molds, and cosmetic models.
Design tips for printed parts
- Keep walls at least about 0.05 in. thick for FDM and 0.04 in. for resin.
- Overhangs steeper than about 45° need supports, which leave marks. Rounding or chamfering the underside of holes and ledges can avoid them.
- Holes usually print slightly small. If a fit matters, tell us the size you need and we'll adjust.
- FDM parts are weakest between layers. Tell us how the part is loaded and we'll orient it for strength.
What drives the price
Mostly print time and material: bigger, solid parts take longer. Quantity helps, since setup is shared across parts and we can fit several on one print. The instant quote shows the machine time and material for your part.
Large parts
We can make parts of any size. Upload your model and we'll quote it.
3D printing questions
Should I choose FDM or resin printing?
Choose FDM for strong, functional parts and anything larger than a few inches. Choose resin for small parts that need fine detail or a smooth surface. If you're not sure, pick "Not sure" when you quote and we'll recommend one.
What file do you need for 3D printing?
An STL, 3MF, OBJ, or STEP file is ideal, and you can check it in our free CAD file viewer first. If you don't have a 3D model, send a sketch, photo, or drawing and we'll model it for you.
Are 3D printed parts strong enough for real use?
Often, yes. Nylon and ABS parts are used for brackets, clips, fixtures, and enclosures. Strength depends on the material, wall thickness, infill, and how the part is oriented, so tell us how the part will be used and we'll set it up accordingly.
How much does 3D printing cost?
It depends mainly on the part's size, how solid it is, and the material. Upload your file to our instant quote to see the exact price, machine time, and material. Quantity discounts are applied automatically.
Where can I get something 3D printed near Provo or Spanish Fork?
Utah Valley Plastics is in Spanish Fork, about 9 miles south of Provo. You can upload files for an instant quote, pick up parts by appointment, or have them shipped.
Can you print parts larger than your build volume?
Yes. We can make parts of any size; upload your model and we'll quote it.
Upload your model and see the price, print time, and material in seconds.
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