What Is a Laser Tracker?

Laser trackers are instruments that accurately measure large objects by determining the positions of optical targets . They are classified as a type of portable coordinate measuring machine, or portable CMM, and are used to measure large-scale workpiece features and record their geometry.

In a typical setup, an operator places a reflector or optical target at each point of interest. The laser tracker follows the target while the operator moves it across the part surface. Laser tracker systems lead the field in terms of the accuracy, reliability, and durability of portable coordinate measuring machines, resulting in them being a standard in industrial metrology.

Because laser trackers are portable, they offer an alternative to bringing a large part to a fixed measuring machine. The tracker comes to the work, records coordinates, and can be packed up and moved to the next station. This portability is one of the main reasons manufacturers choose laser tracker measurement for large assemblies.

How Laser Tracker Measurement Works

The operating principle of a laser tracker is straightforward. The instrument measures two angles and one distance for every point it records. It sends a laser beam to the target, which is why the technology is called laser tracking. By measuring the difference between the emitted and received light waves, the tracker can precisely calculate the distance and position of the target.

The combination of angular measurement and distance measurement produces a 3D coordinate for each target location. Because the measurements are taken over a spherical coordinate system, the tracker can collect data in nearly every direction around its own position. This makes it possible to measure complex assemblies without rotating the instrument to face each feature.

The measurement volume is generous. The tracker is able to measure points in all 360 degrees of space around it horizontally, and 138 degrees vertically. This measurement range extends to about 80 meters. For a large assembly, that coverage means the operator can measure points across the full width and height of the structure without relocating the tracker.

This large coverage is one reason laser-tracking measurement systems have been playing a critical role in large-scale 3D high-precision coordinate measurement. The ability to measure over long distances while remaining portable is central to the role of laser trackers in large-scale metrology.

Why Use Laser Tracker Measurement for Large Assemblies?

For industries that regularly need to perform large-scale measurements, laser trackers offer accurate 3D measurements collected by a single operator. That single-operator workflow is valuable on a busy production floor. One person can carry the tracker to the part, set it up, and walk around the assembly collecting data at each target location.

Large assemblies often have features that are spread far apart. A laser tracker can reference points across an 80-meter coordinate plane. That means the same instrument can capture data at both ends of a large structure. That reach is especially useful when the part cannot be moved to a measurement lab.

The tracker also helps with assembly verification. Because it records the geometry of large-scale workpiece features, it can be used to check that a structure matches its design model. It can also check that tooling is aligned. Or that components are positioned correctly before final assembly. These checks support quality control at the point of production rather than after the part has been shipped elsewhere for inspection.

Laser Tracker Measurement in Manufacturing Industries

Laser trackers have traditionally been a common solution within the aerospace and automotive industries. Both sectors build assemblies that are large, safety-critical, and difficult to move. They also require precise dimensional data at multiple stages of production, from first article inspection to final assembly verification.

The usefulness of laser trackers is not limited to those two industries. Laser trackers are beneficial across several applications in manufacturing. Any manufacturer that builds large assemblies and needs dependable geometry data can apply the same portable measurement workflow. The portability of the system is what makes it adaptable. It allows a tracker to be shared across production lines, used on a tooling bench, or taken into the field to verify installed equipment.

Quality Control with a Portable CMM

Laser tracker measurement is a form of portable CMM inspection. It is used to measure large-scale workpiece features and record their geometry. In quality control, this means inspection of parts that are too large for a conventional fixed CMM.

The table below summarizes the key characteristics of laser tracker measurement as a portable metrology technology.

Exact specifications vary by model and make of the laser tracker machine.

Practical Considerations for Laser Tracker Measurement

A laser tracker determines the positions of optical targets held against an object. Hence, the operator must be able to reach the points being measured. The target is held against the surface while the tracker records the position. This makes the technology well suited to exposed features, visible edges, and tooling points on large assemblies.

The range of the instrument also affects setup planning. With 360 degrees of horizontal coverage and 138 degrees of vertical coverage, the tracker can see most of the space around it. In practice, the tracker should be placed where it has a clear view of the assembly and the targets at different locations.

For organizations that perform large-scale measurement regularly, a laser tracker can be a dependable addition to the metrology toolkit. Laser tracker systems lead the field in accuracy, reliability, and durability among portable coordinate measuring machines. They are a practical choice when precision and portability are both required.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to common questions about laser tracker measurement.

Is a laser tracker a CMM?

Yes. A laser tracker is a type of portable coordinate measuring machine (CMM). It is used to measure large-scale workpiece features and record their geometry. Unlike a traditional fixed CMM, a laser tracker can be moved to the part and operated on the production floor, which makes it well suited for large assemblies.

How does a laser tracker measure?

A laser tracker sends a laser beam to an optical target held against the object being measured. It measures two angles plus a distance to locate the target. By comparing the emitted and received light waves, the tracker calculates the distance and position of the target and records 3D coordinates for each point.

How accurate is laser tracker measurement?

Laser tracker systems lead the field in the accuracy, reliability, and durability of portable coordinate measuring machines. They play a critical role in large-scale 3D high-precision coordinate measurement. For exact accuracy specifications and micron-level performance data, check the manufacturer’s published specifications for the specific tracker model.

What is a laser tracker used for?

Laser trackers are used to accurately measure large objects by determining the positions of optical targets held against those objects. They have traditionally been a common solution in the aerospace and automotive industries and are also beneficial in other manufacturing industries that perform large-scale measurements.

The post Laser Tracker Measurement: Micron-Level Accuracy for Large Assemblies appeared first on Applications 3D.

3D printing builds parts layer by layer from digital models. The technology has become popular across prototyping, production, art, and design, and it continues to play a larger role in manufacturing. But not every 3D printing process works the same way. FDM, SLS, and DMLS each use a different approach to material, and each one produces parts with different strength, precision, speed, and surface characteristics. These are all common technologies for 3d Prototyping, specifically the additive manufacturing called 3D Printing.

For anyone comparing FDM, SLS, and DMLS for production 3d printed parts or prototype 3d printed parts, the decision comes down to what the part must do, what material it needs, and what the budget allows. This article breaks down the three technologies, compares them side by side, and explains where each process fits best.

What Is FDM 3D Printing?

FDM, or fused deposition modeling, is one of the most widely used 3D printing technologies. It builds parts from thermoplastic filament through the layer-by-layer addition of material. FDM is often the first process people encounter because it is accessible and easy to operate. Comparisons describe FDM as a great 3d Printing tool for beginners, and entry-level machines start at a few hundred dollars, which is far below the initial cost of many industrial systems.

FDM has practical limits. Parts made with FDM can show visible layer lines, so the surface may need extra finishing for some applications. Because the part is built in layers, texture can be obvious on angled and curved surfaces. Still, FDM remains a practical option for 3D prototyping and for short production runs where the part geometry and materials fit the process. For shops that need a low-cost way to test designs and produce functional parts, FDM 3d printed parts are often the starting point.

What Is SLS 3D Printing?

SLS, or selective laser sintering, uses a high-powered laser to fuse powdered material into solid parts. The material is typically nylon or polyamide powder particles. Instead of laying down material through a nozzle, the laser scans each layer of powder and fuses the particles together. This process gives SLS advantages over FDM in several areas.

SLS printers are faster than FDM printers because the high-powered laser can be directed at each layer of powder and scanned across it faster than an FDM system moves. SLS also offers higher precision than FDM 3d printed parts. Parts made with SLS 3d printing are more durable than FDM and SLA prints, which makes SLS a strong candidate for functional plastic parts.

One of the biggest production benefits of SLS is that it does not require support structures during the actual printing process. The powder bed itself supports overhangs and complex features during the build. That opens up geometries that would be difficult or impossible with other processes. The trade-off is surface texture. SLS parts have a grainy finish, and that texture must be considered for cosmetic applications.

Production economics matter too. While FDM machines have a lower entry price, the cost-per-part at scale often favors SLS. As production volume grows, the faster process and efficient use of the powder bed can lower per-part costs.

What Is DMLS 3D Printing?

DMLS, or direct metal laser sintering, is the metal counterpart to SLS. Like SLS, it uses a laser to fuse powdered material. The key difference is the material: DMLS uses metal particles instead of nylon or polyamide powder. That single difference changes the application entirely.

DMLS is extremely common for prototyping and low volume production of metal parts. It is used when a component needs metal properties such as strength or compatibility with metal assemblies. Manufacturers use DMLS alongside other production methods like CNC machining, molding, stamping, and welding, especially for short run production.

The strength difference between SLS and DMLS is significant. SLS parts are plastic, and parts printed with SLS are significantly weaker than those printed with DMLS. If a production part must handle structural loads, DMLS is the process that can deliver metal performance.

DMLS brings its own considerations. Because it is a metal powder process, the cost profile differs from FDM and SLS. Specific DMLS pricing is not included in the source comparisons, so manufacturers should request current quotes from a service provider. DMLS is typically selected based on material requirements rather than cost alone.

FDM vs. SLS vs. DMLS: Key Differences at a Glance

To see how FDM, SLS, and DMLS compare for production parts, it helps to put the key characteristics side by side. The table below summarizes what the source comparisons state about each technology.

The table reflects the facts covered in the available comparisons. Some characteristics, such as DMLS surface finish and support behavior, are not specified in those sources, so manufacturers should verify those details with a 3D printing service provider.

Material Differences

Material is the first decision point. FDM uses thermoplastic filament, which is available in a range of engineering plastics. SLS uses nylon or polyamide powder, which gives parts a combination of durability and flexibility. DMLS uses metal particles, so it is the option for parts that must be metal.

The material difference is also the main reason SLS and DMLS parts differ so much in strength. SLS creates plastic parts. DMLS creates metal parts. Because of that, SLS parts are significantly weaker than DMLS parts, even though the two processes look similar.

Precision and Surface Finish

Precision matters for production parts, especially when components must fit together or meet dimensional requirements. SLS 3d printers have higher precision than FDM 3d printers, which makes SLS the better choice when finer features are needed in a plastic part.

Surface finish on 3d printed parts is a separate trade-off. FDM can leave visible layer lines. SLS does not require supports, but it creates a grainy surface texture. Both surface types need to be evaluated against the part requirements. For context, SLA 3d printing is often described as offering higher precision and better surface quality than FDM, but SLA is a separate technology and not the focus of this comparison.

Durability and Strength

Durability is one of the main reasons manufacturers move beyond FDM. SLS prints are more durable than FDM and SLA prints, so SLS is the stronger plastic option among the plastic processes in this comparison.

For metal-strength requirements, the choice is DMLS. Because DMLS printed parts are metal and SLS printed parts are plastic, SLS parts are significantly weaker than DMLS parts. If a production part must withstand structural loads, DMLS is the technology that can provide metal performance.

Speed and Cost at Scale

SLS printers are faster than FDM printers. The reason is in the process. A high-powered laser can be directed at each layer of powder and scanned across it quickly, while an FDM system must physically move material across the part. For larger production runs, that speed advantage compounds.

The cost picture follows a similar pattern. FDM has a lower initial machine cost, with entry-level units starting at a few hundred dollars. But at scale, the cost-per-part often favors SLS. Manufacturers planning production volumes should compare both machine cost and per-part cost before choosing a process.

Choosing Between FDM, SLS, and DMLS for Production Parts

FDM is best suited for early prototyping, low-cost testing, and applications where visible layer lines and material limits are acceptable. It is easy to operate and has the lowest entry cost.

SLS is the stronger plastic option. It offers higher precision than FDM, produces parts that are more durable than FDM and SLA prints, does not require supports, and can be faster at scale. The grainy surface texture is the main trade-off.

DMLS is the metal option. It is extremely common for prototyping and low volume production of metal parts, and it produces parts that are significantly stronger than SLS parts. DMLS is the choice when the part must be metal.

Manufacturers that need help selecting a process can work with a full-service provider. Applications 3D, a Metro Detroit-based engineering services company in business since 2003, offers multiple 3D printing technologies including FDM, SLS, and DMLS, along with 3D scanning, reverse engineering, inspection and quality control, CAD modeling, and short run production through CNC machining, molding, stamping, and welding. A provider that understands both additive and traditional manufacturing can make the selection process simpler.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is SLS stronger than FDM?

Yes. According to the technology comparisons, SLS prints are more durable than FDM and SLA 3d prints. That makes SLS the stronger plastic option among these technologies. The trade-off is surface texture. SLS parts have a grainy finish, while FDM parts can show visible layer lines, so the surface needs to be reviewed alongside strength.

Is DMLS stronger than SLS?

Yes. SLS and DMLS both use lasers to fuse powdered material, but the material is the key difference. SLS uses nylon or polyamide powder, so SLS parts are plastic. DMLS uses metal particles, so DMLS parts are metal. Parts printed with SLS are significantly weaker than those printed with DMLS.

Does SLS require support structures?

No. SLS does not require support structures. The powder bed supports the part as it is printed, which makes it possible to build complex geometries and overhangs without printed supports. The trade-off is that SLS parts have a grainy surface texture, and that texture should be considered for cosmetic applications.

Is FDM cheaper than SLS?

FDM 3d printing machines have a lower initial machine cost, with entry-level units starting at a few hundred dollars. However, the cost-per-part at scale often favors SLS. For small volumes and simple parts, FDM can be the cheaper option. For larger production runs, SLS can offer a lower per-part cost, so the right choice depends on volume.

The post FDM vs SLS vs DMLS: 3D Printing Comparison for Production Parts appeared first on Applications 3D.

Manufacturers in 2026 rely on industrial 3D scanning services to capture precise measurements of parts, tools, and assemblies. These services use high precision laser scanners, structured light, and industrial CT to collect millions of data points that form accurate digital models. From reverse engineering legacy components to performing part-to-CAD comparisons, 3D scanning has become a standard step in quality assurance, design verification, and production support. Companies that offer these services bring years of experience and a range of technologies to handle objects small enough for jewelry or large enough for entire buildings.

What Are Industrial 3D Scanning Services?

Industrial 3D scanning services provide professional measurement and digitization of physical objects using non-contact optical and laser systems. Providers capture millimeter-accurate point clouds or high-resolution meshes that can be used for inspection, reverse engineering, CAD modeling, and digital twin creation. Services are typically offered on-site at a manufacturing facility or at a dedicated scanning lab. Many providers have completed thousands of projects across industries such as automotive, aerospace, medical devices, and energy. Common deliverables include as-built 3D models, design-intent CAD files, As-built models, and detailed inspection reports with GD&T and SPC data.

Key Technologies Used in Industrial 3D Scanning

Laser Scanning

Laser scanners or digitizers project a laser line or point onto an object and measure the reflection with sensors to calculate 3D coordinates. This technology is widely used for medium to large parts, tooling, and entire facilities. Long-range laser scanners can capture large-scale projects such as pipelines, plant layouts, and building interiors with millimeter accuracy. Companies like Applications 3D in Michigan have completed over 10,000 projects nationwide using laser scanning to produce point clouds, 3D CAD models, and CAD drawings. Laser scanning is especially effective for capturing complex geometries and tight tolerances required in manufacturing.

White Light and Blue Light Scanning

White light and blue light scanners project a pattern of light onto the object and use cameras to measure surface deformations. These systems are known for high accuracy on parts with fine details, such as machined components, mold inserts, and turbine blades. Blue light technology is less sensitive to ambient lighting and can scan both matte and reflective surfaces with excellent resolution. Many service providers use these scanners for applications requiring sub-millimeter tolerances, such as tool and die verification, first article inspection, and reverse engineering of complex surfaces. Both of these are used for 3d scanning and digitizing objects in very high resolutions.

Industrial CT Scanning

Industrial computed tomography (CT) scanning uses X-rays to capture internal and external geometry of a part without destroying it. This technology is ideal for inspecting internal features, hidden cavities, and assembled components. Service providers that offer CT scanning can create 3D models of parts that lack complete CAD data or are too complex for conventional scanning. Industrial CT is also used for metrology and defect detection in castings, additively manufactured parts, and electronic assemblies. It provides a complete digital representation including internal voids and wall thickness variations. CT scanning is especially useful for analyzing complex assemblies without the need for disassembly, or destruction.

Common Applications in Manufacturing

Reverse Engineering

Reverse engineering is one of the most frequent reasons manufacturers use 3D scanning services. When a part has an incomplete CAD model or lacks one entirely, scanning captures the exact geometry. Service providers then convert the scan data into as-built 3D models or design-intent CAD files with the highest accuracy. This is especially valuable for legacy parts, obsolete tooling, and organic shapes such as blow molds or ergonomic grips. Companies like Applications 3D specialize in delivering both types of models for manufacturing clients. Reverse engineering enabled by 3D scanning shortens the time needed to replicate or improve existing parts.

Quality Control and Inspection

3D scanning services are used extensively for quality control in manufacturing. Part-to-CAD comparison allows engineers to measure deviations between a produced part and its original design. Service providers generate color maps, dimensional reports, and GD&T analysis. This non-contact inspection method is fast and can be performed on multiple parts in a single scan. Providers also offer statistical process control (SPC) reports to monitor production consistency. Because scanning captures the entire surface, it reveals defects that traditional touch-probe methods might miss, such as warpage, sink marks, or subtle surface deviations.

Digital Twin and BIM

Manufacturing facilities use 3D scanning to create digital twins of production lines, equipment, and plant layouts. Point clouds from laser scans are converted into 3D CAD models or CAD drawings that allow engineers to plan modifications, install new equipment, or coordinate clash detection. Service providers such as Applications 3D leverage 3D laser scanning to improve engineering efficiency on capital projects. For manufacturers expanding or retrofitting facilities, an accurate digital twin reduces field rework and ensures new components fit existing infrastructure.

Benefits of Using Professional 3D Scanning Services

Professional 3D scanning services offer manufacturers several advantages over in-house scanning. Expert technicians operate the equipment and understand how to handle different surface finishes, geometries, and size ranges. They can scan objects from small to large and from low to ultra-high resolution as needed. Service providers typically have multiple scanning technologies available, so the best method is chosen for each project. Fast turnaround times and reliable customer support mean production delays are minimized. Using a dedicated service also avoids the capital investment of purchasing high-end scanners and training personnel. Many providers have decades of combined experience and have completed thousands of successful projects across many industries.

How to Choose a 3D Scanning Service Provider

When selecting an industrial 3D scanning service, consider the types of projects they regularly perform. A provider that works nationwide across all 50 states and has completed over 10,000 projects likely has broad experience. Look for providers that offer a range of technologies: laser scanning, structured light, CT scanning, and portable CMM. Check if they can deliver the file format you need, such as STL, OBJ, STEP, or native CAD files. Ask about their quality standards and whether they provide inspection reports with GD&T and SPC data. Finally, request a quote and discuss turnaround time. Many providers offer free consultations to determine the best scanning approach for your part or facility. Reviewing case studies or previous project examples can also help you gauge their capabilities.

Frequently Asked Questions

How accurate are industrial 3D scanning services?

Accuracy depends on the scanning technology and the size of the object. High-end laser and structured light scanners can achieve tolerances as tight as a few thousandths of an inch. Service providers typically specify accuracy in their project proposals. For critical applications, CT scanning and blue light scanners offer sub-millimeter precision on small to medium parts.

Can 3D scanning be performed on-site at my manufacturing facility?

Yes, many 3D scanning service providers offer on-site scanning for large equipment, production lines, and entire facilities. Portable laser scanners and CMM arms are brought to your location. This is common for reverse engineering of installed machinery or capturing as-built conditions for plant layout projects. On-site scanning reduces shipping risks and downtime.

What file formats do 3D scanning services typically provide?

Common deliverables include point clouds (LAS, E57, PTS), mesh files (STL, OBJ, PLY), and CAD models (STEP, IGES, native formats for SolidWorks, Inventor, Revit). Some services also provide inspection reports in PDF or Excel with color deviation maps. The exact formats depend on your project requirements and the provider’s software capabilities.

How long does a typical 3D scanning project take?

Turnaround time varies with complexity and size. A single small part can be scanned and modeled in a few days, while large facility scans may take several weeks. Many service providers emphasize fast turnaround for manufacturing clients. Request a timeline during the quoting process to align with your production schedule.

Industrial 3D scanning services continue to evolve with more portable equipment, faster processing, and better software integration. For manufacturers in 2026, these services provide an efficient way to ensure quality, extend the life of existing tools, and support digital transformation in production environments.

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The key uses that are involved with industrial CT scanning include reverse engineering applications, part failure analysis, metrology assembly analysis, and flaw detection for complex parts. 

Why is Industrial CT Scanning so Important?

Industrial CT Scanning provides the ability to reveal hidden areas of any part, without any cutting of the part. While Traditional 3D Scanning requires you to cut parts to get to hidden areas, Industrial Scanning eliminates that hassle. Instead, you can cut the part in the digital world and see inside to get all the measurements. This is due to the x-rays that the CT Scanning omits to also scan the inside of the whole part along with the outside.

Benefits of Industrial CT Scanning

• • • No cutting to see the hidden areas of any part. CT scanning allows you to see both the inside and out without ever affecting the part
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    • Scanning of all internal and external components with computed tomography systems
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    • No need for complex fixturing!
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    • Provides new insights for areas once invisible with traditional 3D scanning
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    • Highest-resolution 3D point clouds or STL’s

Traditional scanning is usually a combination of multiple scans joined together in a mesh model. This could lead to errors when joining the scans together. Thus leading to a less accurate model. CT scanning captures the entire part in a single scan leaving little to no error in the final scan.

Looking for Industrial CT Scanning Services? Contact us or check out our CT scanning services page!

Different Inspection and Analysis Techniques 

Different Inspection and analysis techniques include part-to-part comparisons, assembly, and defect analysis, part-to-CAD comparisons, and generation of CAD data. The CAD data that is generated can be used for reverse engineering, production part approval, and geometric dimensioning and tolerance analysis. 

More Information

If you would like to read more about the machines that are able to complete CT scans, we encourage you to look into the different machines that Zeiss offers.

We are conveniently located in the metro Detroit area of Michigan.  Please contact us with any questions you have regarding your CT scanning project via our contact form or call us at (248) 853-7700.

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However, it is not easy to develop new solutions in the technology field because one aspect is, that it is very time-consuming. Then at this point, 3d innovations come to the rescue. With many enhancements in the 3D industry, reverse engineering and 3D scanning will transform the production methods with 3D scanning reverse engineering.

Please contact us with any questions you have regarding our scanning and engineering services via our contact form or call us at (248) 853-7700.

What is reverse engineering?

Reverse engineering is basically a process that helps a user simply imitate the object or anything with the help of 3D printing and scanning. This technological advancement offers a lot; with reverse engineering, you can scan the 3-dimensional object and convert it into a CAD file. 3D printing of this file results in an exact copy of that object.

Machinery failure

It is very common, for industries to have to deal with machinery failure, and since spare parts are not easily available, it is hard for them to import them from other places, or sometimes there’s no availability of parts; reverse engineering helps here as it can make an exact replica of that spare part in a very short time and save your finances.

First, we have to thoroughly study the part; this means we need to get to the root of that spare part, and how it was designed and made; after the research, it will be easy to take the measurements of the spare part.

We have to ensure that from which place in the machine is this part from if it is from the assembly. We have to be very careful while designing the piece so that it fits exactly and there are fewer chances of malfunction in the machinery. But, that’s something we ensure with our 3D scanning reverse engineering.

3D scanning and reverse engineering services

Once the process is complete and we have the design of the object or the spare part, the part will be scanned with the help of 3D scanning, and important measures will be taken to ensure the exact dimensions and nature of the piece to get it done with the 3D printing.

The part will simply go through the 3D printing device and you will have an exact copy. Applications 3D provides you with 3D reverse engineering services with quality not compromised; with this, many other services Applications 3D offers; it is your one-stop shop if you want to get your 3D printing or scanning done. Along with this, they have professionals who ensure no flaw with the designs and measurements and others. Client fulfillment is the topmost priority for Applications 3D.

If you have any interest in our 3D scanning and reverse engineering services, please contact us.

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Evolution of scanning and printing

4th industrial revolution is about to end in an era where digital and physical technologies alter how companies consider, produce, design, and do everything. There is a huge demand for sustainable solutions, and people going for customized products resulted in an increase in 3D printing products. Technological innovations in the field have split the costs while delivering twice the performance. As the 3D printing sector moves beyond prototyping, the use of this technology, particularly in supply chains, is becoming increasingly widespread.

As we see, people are going for more 3D printing options; many companies are producing high-performance 3D printing technologies with over 50x more productivity that improved 3D scanning services too.

Benefits of 3D printing

The 3D printing process brings a wide range of benefits if you compare it with traditional manufacturing methods. It can be related to the designs, time-saving, cost-efficient, and others.

Design flexibility

Any complex, difficult designs can be easily printed through 3D printing technology, which other traditional processes cannot do. What happens is before 3D printing technology, methods were restricted. Hence it would a lot of your time to come up with a complex design. With 3D printing services, we can make any intricate designs. Applications 3D provides you with all the benefits, including 3D printing services, scanning services, CAD services, product design services and others.

Instant printing

You can have a print-on-demand option which is a big plus. This is because it doesn’t require a lot of space to stock up in the inventory. Traditional manufacturing processes did not have this technology. Thus they were unable to save the cost, time because it used the bulk printing method required or not.

Cost-efficient

As 3D printing services require only a one-step manufacturing process, it saves a lot of your time, and so, your cost for getting different machines for the manufacturing purpose gets cut off. They can operate automatically like you don’t need an operator to look after it every time. It cuts your cost on material as this process uses only a certain amount of fabric required for manufacturing.

Applications 3D,  uses these technologies to provide its clients the best 3D printing services and 3D scanning services.

Please contact us with any questions you have regarding our 3D printing services via our contact form or call us at (248) 853-7700.

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Blow molds are used for mainly containers, toys, or other molded objects that need to contain a volume of air or liquid in them. They only mold the outer shapes by blowing a hollow tube of molten plastic, which gets molded by the cavity shapes of the blow mold. Usually, there are two halves of a blow mold, which join together at the parting line of the mold, and have a pinch edge, which cuts off the excessive resin material during the molding process. It is very common for companies to need blow mold reverse engineering to redesign or recreate an old mold.

Due to the repetitive process, a high amount of wear and tear is caused on the mold. This results in rejected parts, or too much material leaking out at the parting lines.

Our customer, who is a premier mold maker and production house in the country, has many such molds which do not have the exact CAD data. The CAD data is used to cut new tools or to repair an existing tool by welding, and re-cutting specific parts of the tool.

Usually, the smaller-sized molds are shipped to our location. These are then first 3D scanned with high-resolution white light 3d scanning. This process measures millions of surface points, very accurately. The points are then meshed together into a polygonal model, which is made up of millions of small triangles. These triangles join the measured points. See image below.

Reverse Engineering Process

The STL model of the mold is then used for blow mold reverse engineering in further downstream CAD programs. The dents or deformities in existing molds are cleaned and smoothed over. New surfaces are created, trimmed, and stitched together into 3D Solid models. This detailed surface modeling results in engineering-grade models. These are then exported out in various formats, such as .stp , .igs, .catprt, x_t, .sldprt, etc.

Finally, these new CAD models are delivered to our customer. Then the CAD can be used on a CNC milling machine to cut brand-new molds.

Please contact us with any questions you have regarding our mold work via our contact form or call us at (248) 853-7700.

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The bones were all scanned with non-contact and no-destruction methods. Furthermore, the deeper cavities were able to be captured without spraying the part at all. Once all the parts are scanned they can now be prepared for 3D printing. This includes cleaning up the scans as well as converting the scan data into a single solid model. Once the single solid model file is created the parts can be 3D scanned. The resolution of the scan is very high so how the 3D print turns out strictly depends on the print quality.

Organic 3D scanning is important because it can preserve artifacts or in this case, become educational tools that will last a lifetime.

Below are some more CAD files that were generated from the bone 3d scans such as the green one above. Also pictured is an in-house 3D print of one of the bone pieces that was scanned. Finally, below all of those images are the actual horse bones that were sent to us to capture high-resolution 3D scans of. 

Some of these models are available for download and print here.

If you have any questions regarding our organic 3D scanning contact us via our contact form or call us at (248) 853-7700.

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An important step in the product development cycle is the prototyping of a newly designed part, so that it can be reviewed for fit and function. The color and material properties of this prototype can be different than the the final molded or stamped part, but it provides the CAD designer with information about the validity of the shape and size of the part.

With a build volume of 11.5 x 7.5 x 5.8 in, the Stratasys Objet30 3D printer has the ability to print many small parts at once. Each layer is put down at roughly the same amount of time no matter how many parts are being printed. This allows print times to be much shorter than similar 3D printers in this price range. All CAD formats can be used, like .stp, .igs, .stl,. .obj, .x_t etc.

The Objet 30 is a perfect combination of speed , accuracy and versatility in a small package . It creates semi-functional prototypes of consumer goods, toys, automotive/aerospace parts, medical devices, casting patterns, inventions and others. Check out one of our 3D print jobs here.

With its ability to deliver special properties such as transparency, flexibility and even biocompatibility, the ObJet 3D Printer can tackle any print job. This includes precision tooling and specialized production parts. It features 0.1 mm accuracy for parts that need to fit exactly. As well as .028 mm layer heights for capturing every detail when needed.

The Objet30 Pro comes with Rigid Opaque materials, and specialized photopolymers. It also supports transparent, high-temperature and simulated polypropylene materials. It gives you the power to create realistic models with specialized properties quickly and easily. Furthermore the printer is well known for smooth and accurate parts that are created from diverse materials. These materials are determined by the customers needs.

How it Works

 It works similar to an inkjet printer, with the exception that the printer lays down layers of material on a bed, and the UV light sources immediately cures and hardens the material. The soft gel like support material ( for supporting complex shapes) can be washed away after the printing is completed.

Learn more on our 3d printing page.

Specification Sheet

The post Applications 3D Adds Objet30 3D Printer appeared first on Applications 3D.

November 13, 2014

Applications 3D presented its equipment, products, and capabilities at the Amcon show in Novi, Michigan. The show is a manufacturing trade show where companies from all over come to show what they offer. This was another successful Amcon show, the booth was very popular for the technical personnel, as well as people with other diverse backgrounds. Some of the exciting technologies displayed at the show were: 3d scanning and digitizing – which included white light/blue light and laser scanners, reverse engineering tools, software and services, 3d inspection capabilities and products, CAD, product design capabilities, and more. Applications 3D had an overwhelming response at the show, with quite a number of customers providing new RFQs.

These shows are very important to attend. That is because they are an excellent way for marketing and networking. Another key reason to attend these shows is for research. They allow you to directly see your competitor’s offerings. Thus, giving you the ability to stay ahead of the competition. There are also booths to allow you to view new technology that may be applicable to your company.  We hope you have the opportunity to view us and our offerings at our booth next year!

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