Why Choose Us?

Manufactured in 2-3 Days

Fully finished to your specifications

No Minimum Order

Quantity 1 to high volume

Shipped Worldwide

Fast, efficient delivery via courier

Gallery of Custom Parts:

File Formats

We currently accept the following models for 3D printed parts:

  • .STL files : STL files are a widely accepted file format for 3D printed parts. If you provide an STL file for 3D printed parts, we recommend ensuring your dimensions are accurate to your design requirements, as we are currently unable to verify your part's dimensions.
  • .sldprt (or any file format that can be imported into SolidWorks) : We accept any standard CAD file format, with Parasolid, STEP and SolidWorks preferred.

Our Engineering & Design Services team can provide drafting services, such as revising dimensions and making other design changes, on SolidWorks files and other common CAD file formats, for a reasonable design fee.

How to Order

To order 3D printed parts, email your design to info@protocase.com or send an email to an Account Manager.

Work Envelope

The work envelope for our printers is 10.83"x10.83"x11.81" (275mm x 275mm x 300mm).

Tolerance: 0.020"

Filaments

filament image

3D printing filament is the thermoplastic feedstock for fused deposition modelling 3D printers.

Each filament has different properties that make it superior for different situations.

Factors you should consider when choosing a filament:

  • Glass transition temperature : How hot the part can get before it will deform.
  • Strength : The overall strength of the filament.
  • Durability : How long-lasting the filament is under various conditions.
  • Flexibility : How much strain the part will be able to withstand.

Protocase currently offers two types of 3D filament:

1. Polylactic Acid (PLA)

Polylactic acid (PLA) is the most commonly used filament due to its ease of printing, low temperature requirements, and minimal chance of warping. PLA is made from sustainable materials, such as corn starch or sugar cane, and is biodegradable under the right conditions. Its ease of printing makes it the ideal choice for prototyping parts.

  • Strength : PLA has a similar tensile strength to ABS but its ductility is worse.
  • Flexibility : Low
  • Durability : Medium
  • Biodegradable : Yes, under correct conditions
  • Glass transition temperature : 60°C

2. Glycol-modified Polyethylene Terephthalate (PETG)

Glycol-modified polyethylene terephthalate (PETG) is considered a middle ground between PLA and Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS) for its medium strength and ease of printing. PETG is not as hard as ABS and therefore scratches more easily. It is naturally translucent but can be easily coloured. It is more flexible than either ABS or PLA and is therefore much harder to break. PETG has very low shrinkage, which prevents warping during printing.

  • Strength : PETG's layer adhesion is unmatched, leaving very strong and durable prints.
  • Flexibility : Medium
  • Durability : High, but slightly less than ABS
  • Biodegradable : No, but it is recyclable
  • Glass transition temperature : 80°C / 176°F
Note:

We are currently unable to 3D print more than one filament within a single part.

Heat-Set Inserts

Heat Set Insert Image
Heat-Set Insert application process

Create strongly fastened 3D-printed parts and enclosures with heat-set inserts. Also sometimes referred to as threaded inserts, heat-set inserts work by softening the surrounding material as they are being installed. Once a heat-set insert is installed, the plastic surrounding the insert is locally stronger, and establishes a secure bond between the metal insert and the thermoplastic.

Protocase stocks brass heat-set inserts in both long and short options. Click here to learn more.

Colors & Layer Height

We currently stock black-colored filament. However, we are happy to order additional filament colors based on your requirements, for an additional lead time and cost.

Layer Height: Protocase employs 0.4mm printing nozzles, which allow for the following layer heights:

  • 0.004" | 0.1mm
  • 0.006" | 0.15mm
  • 0.008" | 0.2mm

If you require a smaller layer height, please contact us to discuss your options.

Surface Finishes
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Rectilinear Surface Finish

When printing, the material on the surface of the part will be patterned due to the nature of the fused deposition modelling process.

For a streamlined manufacturing process, Protocase offers a rectilinear surface finish as its standard.

If you require a different surface finish for your 3D printed parts, please contact us.

Infill Patterns
Infill Patterns Image
Rectangular Infill

The term "infill" refers to the structure of the inside of the object. The infill determines the strength and weight of the part. The higher percentage for infill, the heavier and more dense the end product - and an increase in manufacturing time cost.

The density of the infill can range in 5% increments from 0-100%. The standard infill percentage is 15%.

Protocase offers rectangular infill as its manufacturing standard.

If you require a different infill pattern, please contact us to discuss your needs.

Have Questions?

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