How we work - if you have a 3D file
size
Our prices are based on 3D model volume, the type of 3D printing method, and the material you choose.
If you have a 3D file that you want to 3D print, first you need to know the virtual volume of the 3D model inside the file is before you 3D print it. This works the same as printing a 2D file/picture at a copy shop, however the time it will take to 3D print your 3D file will vary dramatically on the virtual volume of the 3D model and with this, the cost to print it. For 3D projects with multiple parts we have an additional processing fee of 25€ per batch of 3 parts.
You can figure out the virtual volume and the cost to 3D print your 3D model is in two ways:
either measure the virtual volume of the 3D model inside of the file yourself (if it’s a .STL file you can do this here)
send us the 3D file and we will tell you it's virtual volume and the required Quantity you’ll need to 3D print it (.STL & .OBJ file types are supported)
Once you know the 3D volume of your model, you can use the list below to identify the correct Quantity from the list below. If you are having difficulty finding out the virtual volume of your sketched model please contact us.
Purchase Volume Quantity - FDM (what’s FDM?): (18cm x 18cm x 20cm max. dimensions)
FDM 3D purchased volume = 1000cm³ = Quantity 1 (10x10x10cm)
FDM 3D purchased volume = 2000cm³ = Quantity 2 etc.
Purchase Volume Quantity - DLP (what’s DLP?): (12cm x 7cm x 15cm max. dimensions)
DLP 3D Print virtual volume = 125cm³ = Quantity 1 (5x5x5cm)
DLP 3D Print virtual volume = 250cm³ = Quantity 2 etc.
Purchase Volume Quantity - High Performance : (15cm (diameter) x 15cm (height) max. dimensions)
Please bare in mind that our prices differ significantly depending on which filament you select. The minimum Volume Quantity is set at 125cm³.
High Performance 3D Print virtual volume = 125cm³ = Quantity 1
High Performance 3D Print virtual volume = 250cm³ = Quantity 2 etc.
SCALING
Your 3D model will be printed in 1:1 scale unless you specify otherwise. Don’t worry about this too much. If the size doesn’t look right we will tell you.
3d printing method
We now offer several types of 3D printing at iterator.de - ranging from the most basic, FDM 3D printing (learn more), to the highly detailed DLP resin based 3D printing (learn more), and now aerospace grade materials via our service partners. We recommend FDM for functional objects that are being used indoors and kept away from excessive heat (e.g. fixtures; components; casings; toys etc.), and DLP for anything that requires high accuracy and has limited functionality (e.g. printed jewelry; figurines; plaques; artistic pieces etc.), and for High Performance materials we recommend these for anyone who knows the properties of these materials and their intended uses.
There are some exceptions to these general recommendations, and we are always available to help you find the right solution for your idea. Please bare in mind the difference in print area dimensions for our machines when selecting FDM, DLP & High Performance materials (see above under Size).
MATERIAL & COLOUR
Filament Type rule of thumb (FDM):
if your 3D print is for indoors only and not being in sat in direct sunlight daily or in high temperatures (+40°C), for extended periods - select PLA
if your 3D print is primarily for outdoors and will be sat in direct sunlight or high temperatures (+40°C) - select PETG
If you have a special request for the filament you want to use for your 3D print, please feel free to contact us.
Resin Type rule of thumb (DLP):
if your 3D print is a non-functional tool or prototype part - select Standard
if your 3D print is a functional tool or prototype part - select Hard
If you have a special request for the resin you want to use for your 3D print (e.g. casting resin), please feel free to contact us.
Filament Type rule of thumb (High Performance):
our selection of High Performance materials were made with functional prototyping and aerospace in mind. If you want more information about these materials please contact us.
Considerations when selecting a colour:
Different colours interact differently with light, particularly sunlight (e.g. black absorbs and white reflects). This choice can affect the longevity of some 3D prints.
If you have everything you need, you can select from the following service packages below.
