Find an aerospace 3D printing service that can hold tolerance.

How to choose an aerospace 3D printing service

Aerospace buying is about documentation and repeatability as much as geometry. A shop that's perfect for concept models may not be set up for flight-adjacent work. Here's what to check:

1. Quality systems worth asking about

• AS9100 — the aerospace quality-management standard. The baseline credential for serious aerospace supply-chain work.
• ITAR registration — required if your parts or data fall under US export controls. Several listed bureaus publish ITAR compliance; confirm directly for your program.
• NADCAP accreditation — process-specific accreditation (heat treat, NDT) relevant when post-processing is part of the requirement.

2. Material certification and traceability

Ask for mill certs on metal powders, lot traceability, and whether mechanical test coupons can be built and reported with your order. If the answer is vague, keep shopping.

3. Match the process to the requirement

Structural metal parts point at DMLS/SLM or binder jet; ducts and brackets often suit SLS or MJF; large tooling may need large-format FDM. Use the technology filter and confirm in-house capability.

4. Tolerances and inspection

Ask what tolerances they routinely hold on your process and material, and what inspection they include (CMM reports, CT scanning, FAI). Get it in writing before the PO.

Listings marked "Not listed" simply haven't published that detail — ask us or contact the bureau directly.