Additive manufacturing, or 3D printing, is a process that uses computer-aided design (CAD) and slicing software to build parts layer by layer from common materials, such as plastics, resins, metals and others. It enables rapid prototyping, customisation and efficient production across many industries including aerospace, automotive and healthcare.

There are various types of Additive Manufacturing, each offering unique capabilities – several of which are available at the 3M BIC.

We’ve been exploring the different additive manufacturing processes and their opportunities. Find out more below.

Selective Laser Sintering (SLS)

Selective Laser Sintering (SLS) produces strong, durable parts that are self-supported within a bed of powder. This process enables the efficient small-batch production of complex and intricate components without the need for additional support structures.

Key features of Selective Laser Sintering (SLS) include:

• Powder based – fine features
• Design-complexity freedom
• Functional & durable parts

Using SLS, we printed yarn selectors for carpet weaving for a local company. This involved manufacturing thin production-line parts in PA12 Nylon in small batches – initially 50 pieces for testing, followed by a larger order of 1,000 units (95 pieces per build run). The turnaround time was 12-16 days, demonstrating the efficiency and scalability of SLS for functional production parts.

Stereolithography (SLA) 

Stereolithography (SLA) produces highly detailed parts with ultra-fine resolution, making it ideal for showcase prototypes. Additionally, the use of specialised resins enables SLA technology to be utilised across a wide range of industrial sectors, including engineering, manufacturing, automotive, aerospace, dental and medical applications.

Key features of Stereolithography (SLA) include:

• Fine-quality and detailed parts

• High accuracy & precision
• Material type versatility

We 3D scanned a public sculpture for a local company to create a figurine model and mould for bronze casting. The piece was produced using SLA to achieve the highest level of surface and fine face feature detail, with a range of suitable material options such as standard resin or castable resin.

Selective Laser Melting (SLM) 

Selective Laser Melting (SLM) also known as laser powder bed fusion, uses very thin layers of metallic powder alloys which are melted and fused via high intensity laser beam(s). Although the powder bed can give some support to the print, due to the weight and density of the material, support structures are usually required.

Key features of Selective Laser Melting (SLM) include:

• Various metal alloys – titanium, stainless steel, Inconel, copper

• High layer resolution and fusion
• High strength and accuracy
• Builds intricate and complex parts

Small batch production is perfectly achievable with SLM and can significantly impact the price of the final part. This flexibility is something we actively explore, offering access to metal additive manufacturing without the need for large-scale production. Key factors in utilising this technology for batch production include the size of the part, as the build volume is finite.

Multi Jet Printing (MJP)

Multi-Jet Printing (MJP) produces high detailed and smooth finished parts that are supported with a soluble wax. MJP is ideal for building complex print-in-place components, where moving parts are built as a single assembly without the need for post-processing or assembly.

Key features of Multi-Jet Printing (MJP) include:

• Detailed and smooth surface finish

• Complex geometries
• High accuracy

We worked with local company Chemfix to manufacture a range of different design pieces, later used in testing and analysis of its new product line. MJP was the ideal process due to the smooth surface, high detail and the absence of supports, critical for the type of tests being carried out.

Fused Deposition Modelling (FDM)

Fused Deposition Modelling (FDM) rapidly heats and extrudes plastic in layers to build components. Whilst it may require support structures, depending on the complexity and orientation of the part being printed, its advantages lay within the speed, ease of application and low costs.

Key features of Fused Deposition Modelling (FDM) include:

• Wider material compatibility, including PLA, PETG, TPU, nylon (PA6 and PA11), ABS, PC and PEEK.

• Affordable maintenance & materials

• Perfect for prototypes
• Multicolour capability

Many of these materials can also be found with Glass Fibre or Carbon Fibre additives which can change properties significantly to improve strength or heat resistance.

You can learn more about the different materials we offer in our Materials Chart.

We worked with Genko Electrical, based in Huddersfield, to produce 100 electrical box cases using FDM printing. They had specific requirements for the material to meet Flame Retardant (UL94 V0) and RoHS compliance standards – essential for safety and regulatory approval. After testing material options, we delivered a solution that met both performance and compliance expectations.

Additive manufacturing unlocks powerful opportunities for innovative organisations across industries like healthcare, aerospace, automotive and consumer products. Its ability to deliver rapid prototyping, customisation and agile production makes 3D printing an essential tool for staying competitive in fast-moving markets.

At 3M BIC, we provide access to a range of 3D printing technologies, allowing businesses to explore different approaches to prototyping and production. These capabilities can support both new product development and the refinement of existing designs.

To find out more about the additive manufacturing capabilities at the 3M BIC, drop the team a line at [email protected] to arrange a FREE consultation or head here.