PRP Manufacturing’s 3D printing (additive manufacturing) capability streamlines design, prototyping, and low-volume production by enabling rapid iteration, complex geometries, and fast design validation. Using advanced additive manufacturing technology, we produce high-precision prototypes, custom fixtures, and end-use parts in a range of thermoplastic and elastomeric materials. Integrated with our CAD and engineering expertise, 3D printing accelerates development cycles, supports functional testing, and enables cost-effective, agile solution, whether for one-off prototypes or as a bridge to full-scale production.

PRP offers design, prototype and manufacture utilising CNC and additive manufacturing techniques in-house and supported by our expansive technical support network.

What is 3D Printing?

3D printing is a form of additive manufacturing where objects are created layer by layer from digital designs. This approach enables rapid development of complex geometries, shortens production lead times, and significantly reduces waste compared to traditional manufacturing.

3D printing encompasses a range of technologies, each suited to different materials and applications. The most widely used methods include Fused Deposition Modelling (FDM) for cost-effective prototypes and functional parts, and Stereolithography (SLA/DLP) for high-detail components with smooth finishes. For stronger, production-ready parts, Selective Laser Sintering (SLS) and Multi Jet Fusion (MJF) are commonly used, particularly with nylon materials for functional and low-volume manufacturing. More specialised technologies include Direct Metal Laser Sintering (DMLS) / Selective Laser Melting (SLM) for high-performance metal components, and PolyJet (material jetting) for multi-material or high-resolution visual parts. Together, these technologies provide flexibility across prototyping, tooling, and end-use manufacturing.

What is the Tolerance of 3D Printers?

• General-Purpose Filament Printer (FDM) – Anywhere from ±0.1 mm to +/-0.5mm accuracy, ideal for large-format parts, mechanical prototypes, and fixtures. FDM can commonly be reinforced with materials such as carbon fibre and fibreglass for added strength.

• High-Resolution Resin Printer (SLA/DLP) – Delivers extremely fine detail with tolerances down to ±0.025 mm, perfect for small, intricate components.

• Industrial-Grade Printers (SLS/MJF) – Can achieve ±0.1 mm dimensional accuracy, from functional prototypes to production-grade components

All printers are calibrated for high repeatability, and we apply additional finishing and QA methods where tighter tolerances are required.

3D Printing Materials

3D printing supports a wide range of materials, with selection depending on the technology and application requirements. Common material groups include:

• Thermoplastics (FDM):
  PLA, ABS, Nylon (PA), PETG, TPU
  Used for general-purpose parts, functional components, and flexible applications
• Photopolymer Resins (SLA / DLP):
  Standard resins, tough resins, flexible resins, high-temp resins, and castable resins
  Silicone 40 Shore A soft resin
  Ideal for high-detail, smooth surface finish, and intricate geometries
• Engineering Polymers (SLS / MJF):
  Nylon (PA11, PA12), glass-filled or carbon-filled variants
  ESD additives for electro-static discharge
  Strong, durable materials suited for functional and production-grade parts
• Metals (DMLS / SLM):
  Aluminium, stainless steel, titanium, Inconel
  Used for high-performance, load-bearing, and temperature-resistant applications
• Multi-Material Photopolymers (PolyJet):
  Rubber-like, rigid, transparent, and full-colour materials
  Enables varying material properties within a single part

Applications Across Industries

With our multi-technology 3D printing capability, PRP Manufacturing supports everything from early-stage prototypes to production-ready components:

• Rapid Prototyping – Functional and visual models to accelerate product development

• Low-Volume Production – End-use parts manufactured without the need for tooling

• Tooling & Fixtures – Custom jigs, gauges, and supports for workshop and assembly use

• Medical Models & Devices – Accurate, high-detail components for R&D and healthcare

• Lightweight Structural Parts – Reinforced parts for aerospace, automotive, and defence

• Custom Enclosures – Precision housings and mounts for electronics and instrumentation

Our flexible approach ensures the right technology and material is chosen for each project, with short lead times and high consistency.