Advanced materials and technology at Shapeways pave the way to greater innovation:  

  • Powerful Material Jetting technology at Shapeways offers extreme accuracy in parts 3D printed with materials like Fine Detail Plastic.
  • Options in finishing allow for varying levels of detail in parts.
  • Metals like aluminum are highly resistant to corrosion, making these materials appealing for parts exposed to outdoor environments.
  • Precious metals can be used to create high-end products like jewelry.

In early 2021, Shapeways marked a great milestone, 3D printing over 21 million parts for over 1 million customers worldwide. This achievement was made possible by our base of incredibly inspiring customers enjoying access to the wide range of resources available at Shapeways, beginning with a long and growing inventory of notable materials.

Fine Detail Plastic

Fine Detail Plastic is one of the most accurate 3D printing materials available. Recommended for highly detailed parts, this material is 3D printed via Material Jetting, a uniquely powerful technology that uses small, multi-nozzle printheads to project resin droplets which are then cured. Parts 3D printed with Fine Detail Plastic are perfect for scale models, miniature figures, jewelry prototypes, master patterns for molds, and other small objects. No matter the finish, Fine Detail Plastic is easy to paint over for adding a splash of color.

MJF Plastic PA12

Shapeways uses HP technology to 3D print strong and functional objects with MJF Plastic PA12, a material highly suited for products like phone cases, camera mounts, and drone parts; however, it is also smooth enough to make jewelry, toys, and home decor. Thick, stiffer objects are less likely to warp with MJF Plastic PA12, available in gray and black. Note: for parts with finer details, black is recommended.

Aluminum

Aluminum is an ideal choice for mechanical and other load-bearing parts. Additionally, because of its high resistance to corrosion, aluminum is perfect for bike accessories and other products routinely exposed to the environment. Designers should take note that sharp edges could get rounded down. And although aluminum does support interlocking parts, this material is not considered accurate enough for complex, interacting parts like screws and nuts.

Full-Color Sandstone

Sandstone is the way to go for economical, multi-colored objects. Well-suited for items like figurines and lifelike 3D printed models, sandstone is produced via binder jetting, a 3D printing technology that uses agents to bind granular particles together layer after layer, using one or more nozzles to build green parts that emerge in a delicate state until cured.

With the matte finish, there is potential for even bolder colors. It is important to note that while finished sandstone products will look amazing sitting on a desk or positioned up on a shelf, they are not recommended for regular handling due to the brittle quality of the material.

Gold and Platinum

Precious metals are available for truly special products. Create gold objects with Shapeways in either 14K (Gold, Rose Gold, or White Gold) or an extra vibrant 18K option. For truly special objects, materials like Platinum are available too.

Casting with metal involves 3D printing a wax model which is used to create a plaster mold. The plaster mold is used to pour and cast the material, and it works for Platinum too. This unique process is perfect for creating extra special pieces like rings, earrings, and other small jewelry items.

For a unique look with other metals, explore materials like Steel with a bronzed-steel finish, used as a rustic finish for industrial chic pieces—or Silver with an antique finish, creating a dramatic look for popular styles like steampunk.

Other Materials

Successful product development, printability, and manufacturing are heavily dependent on making the right choices in terms of materials, which is why Shapeways has continued to expand options for customers with different materials and finishes—from nylon plastics to premium metals. In choosing the proper materials for a specific 3D model, it is critical to consider whether a product will be an exclusive piece or a versatile design that can be manufactured in a variety of textures and colors in higher volumes.

 Explore the full Shapeways material portfolio here.  

About Shapeways

Enjoy the benefits of advanced technology and a wide range of materials from Shapeways for 3D printing your creations with accuracy, complex detail, and no minimum or limits in terms of mass customization or single part orders. Shapeways has worked with over 1 million customers in 160 countries to 3D print over 21 million parts! Read about case studies, find out more about Shapeways solutions, and get instant quotes here.