Is CNC a metal fabrication?
Is CNC a metal fabrication? Buyer: I’m building a custom metal part and got two quotes—one for CNC, the other for fabrication. Is CNC a form of metal fabrication? Engineer (Prime): Good question. CNC machining and metal fabrication often overlap, but they’re technically different processes. Let’s break down what each means, how they’re used, and […]
How to get into metal manufacturing?
How to get into metal manufacturing? Aspiring Engineer: I’ve always been curious—how do you get into metal manufacturing without prior experience? Engineer (Prime): That’s a great question. Metal manufacturing is one of the most stable and rewarding fields in the industrial sector. Whether you want to be a fabricator, machinist, or start your own shop, […]
How much does it cost to fabricate metal parts?
How much does it cost to fabricate metal parts? Buyer: I’m planning a new product and need a sense—how much does it cost to fabricate metal parts? Engineer (Prime): Great question. The cost of fabricating metal parts depends on many factors: material, complexity, quantity, and processes involved. Let’s walk through typical pricing models, cost drivers, […]
What materials Cannot be 3D printed?
What materials cannot be 3D printed? Buyer: I’ve been expanding into 3D printing and need to know—what materials cannot be 3D printed? Engineer (Prime): That’s a great question. Most people only focus on what can be printed. But there are several materials that either can’t be printed at all, or pose safety, technical, or legal […]
What is the strongest material you can 3D print?
What is the strongest material you can 3D print? Engineer (Prime): You’re thinking about structural 3D prints? Buyer: Exactly. I want to know—what is the strongest material you can 3D print? Engineer: That’s a great question. It depends on whether we’re talking plastic or metal. For plastics, reinforced polymers lead the way. For metals, titanium […]
What are the disadvantages of 3D metal printing?
What are the disadvantages of 3D metal printing? Buyer: I’ve seen all the hype around metal 3D printing, but I need to know—what are the disadvantages of 3D metal printing? Engineer (Prime): That’s a smart question. While metal additive manufacturing has huge potential, it also comes with real challenges—especially when it comes to cost, process […]
Can you 3D print metals at home?
Can you 3D print metals at home? Image: A desktop 3D printer using metal composite filament, installed in a home garage environment. Engineer (Prime): You’re thinking about printing metal parts at home? Buyer: Exactly. I’ve been using FDM printers for plastic prototypes, and I’m wondering—can you 3D print metals at home? Engineer: Great question. Short […]
What is a big problem with 3D printed parts?
What is a big problem with 3D printed parts? Image: A failed 3D printed bracket due to thermal distortion and insufficient layer bonding. Engineer (Prime): Let’s talk honestly—what is a big problem with 3D printed parts? Buyer: I’ve been wondering the same. We’re looking into metal additive manufacturing, but I’ve heard the failure rate is […]
Are 3D printed metal parts strong?
Are 3D printed metal parts strong? Image: A laser-sintered stainless steel bracket undergoing structural load testing at Prime. Engineer (Prime): A lot of clients ask us this: “Are 3D printed metal parts actually strong enough for real-world use?” Buyer: That’s exactly my concern. We’re considering metal AM for a lightweight bracket, but strength is critical. […]
Can you 3D print metal parts?
Can you 3D print metal parts? Wondering if metal can be printed like plastic? Yes, metal 3D printing is real—and it’s already used in aerospace, medical, and industrial prototyping. However, not all printers can do it, and there are serious cost and material limitations. In this article, we’ll explore how metal 3D printing works, what […]
