3DWK
3DWK Resource Center
Compare processes, understand cost and tolerance drivers, prepare design files, and plan repeat production with concise guidance linked to 3DWK capabilities.
3DWK Official Resources
This content is published by 3DWK administrators and kept separate from user conversations in Community.
How SLM (selective laser melting) metal 3D printing removes traditional design limits such as machining access, tooling cost and assembly steps.
Read Resource articleHow multiplanar metal 3D printing differs from single-direction layer-by-layer printing, and what flexible toolpaths mean for complex metal parts.
Read Resource articleMetal materials for additive manufacturing, such as stainless steel and aluminum alloys, and how material choice shapes the performance of 3D printed parts.
Read Resource articleFeatured Guides
A practical introduction to subtractive manufacturing, machine motion, tooling, workholding, and the information needed for a useful quote.
Read CNC overviewCompare milling, turning, Swiss machining, routing, and EDM by geometry, volume, and feature access.
Compare CNC processesUnderstand which process moves the cutting tool, which rotates the workpiece, and when a part may need both.
See machining optionsReview common metals and engineering plastics, including how machinability, strength, corrosion, and cost affect selection.
Browse materialsLearn why tolerance depends on size, geometry, material, setup, inspection method, and which dimensions are truly critical.
Review design guidanceSetup count, machine time, stock removal, tools, tolerance, material, quantity, finish, and inspection all influence price.
Request a CNC quoteComplex internal channels, very high material waste, extremely high volume, or thin formed geometry may point to another process.
Compare all services
Compare strength, accuracy, surface finish, geometry freedom, material range, setup cost, and quantity before choosing a route.
Compare additive processesPlan wall thickness, holes, unsupported features, clearances, orientation, support marks, and post-processing.
Read the design guidePrepare small-feature parts by identifying tool access, aspect ratios, burr control, workholding, and inspection requirements.
Explore micro machining
Account for bend radius, reliefs, hole-to-edge distance, hardware, weld access, coating, and flat-pattern requirements.
Read fabrication guidanceUnderstand draft, wall uniformity, ribs, undercuts, gates, tooling choices, validation, and production ramp-up.
Explore molding and toolingSelect anodizing, powder coating, plating, passivation, blasting, polishing, or marking based on function and appearance.
Browse finishing optionsUse the prior RFQ number, current drawing revision, change summary, quantity, and supplier preference to reduce ambiguity.
Read the repeat-order guideBuild a more useful sourcing package with capability needs, quality records, delivery priorities, and clear commercial scope.
Explore enterprise workflowInclude CAD, drawings, quantity, material, finish, tolerance, inspection, packaging, delivery, and revision information.
Start an RFQNo resources match your search. Try a process, material, product, announcement, tolerance, finish, or ordering term.
Quick Answers
Share the latest 3D model and drawing, quantity, material, finish, critical tolerances, inspection needs, target timing, and any prior RFQ or revision information.
No. A guest can submit contact details and project files through the RFQ form. A user account is required only to publish Community posts or comment on Resources.
Use the rapid prototyping line for design validation and short development cycles. Use full-service manufacturing for recurring, multi-process, assembled, or production-oriented work.
Yes. The service catalog covers additive manufacturing, machining, molding and casting, sheet and tube fabrication, finishing, assembly, and related secondary operations.
Capability, material, tolerance, certification, documentation, lead time, and supplier availability are reviewed for each RFQ. Website guidance is not a substitute for project-specific confirmation.
Need Project-Specific Guidance?
Use the resource center to prepare your project, then submit the actual requirements for pricing and capability confirmation.