What Is a 3D Printing Service Bureau?
Service bureaus are professional shops that handle your 3D printing jobs — from prototypes to production runs. Here's what to look for when choosing one.
<p>A 3D printing service bureau is a company that offers 3D printing as a service. Rather than investing in expensive equipment yourself, you send them your CAD files and they handle everything — material selection, printing, post-processing, and shipping.</p><h2>Why Use a Service Bureau?</h2><p>Service bureaus give you access to industrial-grade machines (SLS, DMLS, PolyJet) without capital expenditure. They employ experienced technicians who understand tolerances, material properties, and finishing techniques.</p><h2>What to Look For</h2><ul><li><strong>Certifications:</strong> ISO 9001, AS9100 for aerospace, ISO 13485 for medical</li><li><strong>Materials offered:</strong> Metals, engineering plastics, resins</li><li><strong>Lead times:</strong> Ranges from same-day to 2 weeks</li><li><strong>NDA availability:</strong> Important for IP-sensitive work</li></ul>
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