3D Printing Services – Professional 3D Printing Services: From Prototype to Production, Delivered Fast.

The 3D printing process begins with a 3D CAD file being sliced into hundreds of digital layers. This data is fed to the machine, which then precisely deposits, cures, or fuses material layer by layer until the physical object is complete. Different technologies SLA, SLS, FDM use different methods (liquid resin curing, powder fusion, or melted filament deposition) to achieve this result.

Key advantages include rapid prototyping and speed-to-market, complex design freedom (geometries impossible with traditional methods), on-demand production, material diversity (from flexible TPU to rigid PEEK), and significant cost savings for low-to-mid volume manufacturing runs.

Using a UK-based provider like Malcolm Nicholls Ltd. ensures faster lead times, reduced shipping costs and logistical risk, local accountability, and easy access to technical consultation with our engineering team. Our UK facility guarantees quality control and intellectual property protection under UK law.

Our lead times depend on the complexity, volume, and chosen technology SLA, SLS, FDM. We offer rapid turnaround options, often delivering straight-off-the-printer parts with 24/7 Production we can print the same day! For large-volume or highly finished projects, we provide clear estimates upon receiving your CAD data.

No, 3D printers vary significantly in process and output. We utilise industrial-grade technologies including Stereolithography SLA for precision and large-format parts, Selective Laser Sintering SLS for durable functional components, and Fused Deposition Modeling FDM for engineering thermoplastics like ULTEM and PEEK. We also offer complementary low-volume services like Vacuum Casting and CNC Machining.

Our technology consultants will give an unbiased opinion on the best process to use to match your application, as a long-standing 3d printing service provider we offer advice dependent upon the following:

• Function
• Material
• Speed of process
• Budget
• Size of part
• Quantity

To receive an accurate quote, you must supply 3D CAD data, typically in the form of an STL or STEP file. We also require details on material preference, surface finish requirements, quantity, and the intended application (e.g., prototype, end-use part, jig, or fixture).

For the ideal CAD format see here.

If CAD data does not exist, don’t worry we can cost to create it, or we can arrange partners to laser scan existing parts.

All projects are quoted in advance from CAD data supplied by customers.

MNL operate a three-tier costing system. The philosophy of the tiered costing system is thus:

Premium route, builds are organised by MNL so that customers can utilise an entire machine solely for their project. This means that parts are built in the shortest amount of time possible. In some cases multiple machines may be used to spread the load, reducing build time once again.

Standard route, builds are organised so that several jobs are built at once with a good balance of efficiency and speed.

Budget route, builds are organised by MNL so that machines are stacked out for maximum efficiency, these are longer builds however  30% off standard pricing in exchange for a few extra days is often strongly utilised.

CAD is referred to as either the system that creates the data or the data itself, confusing I know!

For 3D Printing you need 3D CAD data. For the formats that MNL can take see here.

2D to 3D data conversion:

Our CAD department can convert “fag-packet” sketches or any 2D data into suitable data for 3D printing.

Design work:

We can offer a basic design assistance service. We also have links with many designers and agencies for larger projects.

No.

At Malcolm Nicholls Ltd., we offer a wide range of materials to bring your vision to life, including:

• Plastics: PLA, ABS, PETG, Nylon, TPU
• SLA: Somos Watershed, Taurus
• SLS: PA2200, PA3200, PA 11, PA1101, PP R-201, Duraform Flex, Polyamide 12 and more.
• FDM: Nylon-CF10, ABS-CF10, Antero 840CN03, Diran 410MF07, TPU 92A, Antero 800NA PEKK, PLA, Nylon 6, Nylon 12 CF, ST-130, ULTEM™ 1010 High temp Filament340° F (supports are not soluble), PPSF, ULTEM™ 9085 High Temp 340° Filament (supports are not soluble), PC- ABS, PC-ISO, PC, Nylon 12, ABSi, ABS ESD7, ABS M30i, ABS M30, ABS Plus P430, ASA
• CNC Machining: Buff ABS, Black ABS, 94V0 flame retarding ABS, ABS+30%PC

Black Polycarbonate, Transparent Polycarbonate, Acrylic, NYLON 6, NYLON 66, PA6+30%, GF, POM, PP, PP+20% GF, PE, TEFLON, PPS, PEEK, PPO, PPE, PEI, PAI, PES etc.

The strength of your 3D printed parts depends on the material and printing process chosen. Here’s a breakdown:

• SLA: While offering exceptional detail, SLA parts like Somos Watershed can be brittle in extreme temperatures and require careful handling. Its also worth noting that SOMOS is not UV stable so you need to be careful in the sun that it doesn’t cause yellowing.
• SLS and FDM: These processes generally produce stronger and more durable parts suitable for end-use applications.

The lifespan of your parts also hinges on material and care:

• Somos Watershed: Requires protection from extreme temperatures and UV light to maintain its clarity and strength. We can work with you to add extra strength to your parts where applicable – particularly with scale models, we can add extra steel rods for strength or look at Carbon Fibre lay ups to stop your scale model sagging giving you a longer lifespan of your part.
• FDM and SLS parts: Generally, more durable and can last for years with proper care.