Plastic 3D printing

3D printing with PA12

3D printing with PA12+GB

3D printing with PP

3D printing with TPU

What is 3D printing with plastic?

Thermoplastic polymers or plastics can be melted and solidified repeatedly while retaining their intrinsic properties. This is the characteristic utilized by the 3D printing technology known as Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM). Plastic 3D printers using FDM melt a filament of a thermoplastic polymer to deposit it onto a previously deposited solid layer, so that the heat from the melted material re-melts the solidified layer to adhere both layers and form a single printed piece. This layer-to-layer adhesion is also promoted by the pressure exerted by the molten material exiting the 3D printer onto the solid layer.

The wide range of filaments available for professional plastic printers means that this technology can be applied to almost any sector. At Addimen we are able to print standard plastics or commodities and high-performance technical plastics. In the case of more advanced plastics such as PEEK or PEI, their complex processing means that we have to individually analyse each part to determine if they can be manufactured.

PA12 (Polyamide 12 / Nylon 12)

PA12 is the most versatile and widely used material in SLS/MJF 3D printing. It offers an excellent balance between mechanical strength, flexibility and chemical stability, making it ideal for both prototypes and end-use parts.

Features

High mechanical strength and impact resistance.
Good thermal stability.
Smooth surface and easy to post-process.
Resistant to oils, greases and hydrocarbons.

Benefits

Versatile material for multiple applications.
Good balance between rigidity and flexibility.
Certifications available for demanding sectors (food, medical, aerospace).
Excellent detail in complex geometries.

Applications

Functional prototyping.
End-use parts for automotive and consumer goods.
Housings, connectors and technical components.
Medical equipment and orthotics.

PA12 GB (Polyamide 12 with Glass Filler)

PA12 GB is a variant reinforced with glass microspheres, which increases rigidity and dimensional stability, ideal for applications requiring structural strength and precision.

Features

Significantly higher rigidity than standard PA12.
Less deformation under load.
Excellent dimensional stability.
Good chemical resistance.

Benefits

Ideal material for rigid and technical parts.
High resistance to wear and abrasion.
Reduces deformation in large or thin parts.
Maintains stability even in demanding environments.

Applications

Automotive structural components.
Housings subjected to mechanical stress.
Industrial tools and tooling.
Parts requiring dimensional precision.

PP (Polypropylene)

PP is a lightweight, flexible material with excellent chemical resistance, perfect for applications where low weight and compatibility with aggressive fluids or chemicals are required.

Features

High chemical resistance to acids, alkalis and solvents.
Very low density (lightweight material).
Good mechanical fatigue (live hinges, clips).
Moderate impact resistance.

Benefits

Ideal for parts that will be in contact with liquids or chemicals.
Reduces weight without losing functionality.
Allows for flexible and long-lasting parts.
Good performance in snap-fit or hinge-type joining systems.

Applications

Fluid tanks and pipes.
Elements in contact with chemicals.
Clips, hinges and flexible closures.
Lightweight parts in automotive and consumer goods.

TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane Flexible)

TPU is a flexible and elastic material for 3D printing, with excellent resistance to abrasion and wear. Ideal for manufacturing parts that require flexibility and shock absorption.

Features

High elasticity (similar to rubber).
Resistance to abrasion, oils and greases.
Variable hardness depending on formulation (Shore A/B).
Good recovery after deformation.

Benefits

Combines flexibility and mechanical strength.
Durable in dynamic applications.
Absorbs impacts and vibrations.
Allows complex geometries while maintaining elasticity.

Applications

Gaskets, seals and shock absorbers.
Protective casings and covers.
Soles, grips and consumer components.
Flexible parts for automotive and industrial applications.

Instant quote

If you require more information or advice about our plastic 3D printing services, please contact us. One of our specialists will contact you as soon as possible.

Ask for a free quote