Rapid prototyping and functional parts, from design to print.
FDM and SLA resin integrated into a tooling chain: we validate form, fit and assembly before you invest in a mold, and we use 3D printing as a production tool for casting patterns, fixtures and spare parts.
A mistake in a prototype costs hours; a mistake in a mold costs weeks.
Additive manufacturing builds parts layer by layer from a digital model, with no tooling. That makes it the fastest, most economical way to hold a part in your hand before committing to the investment in a mold, a permanent mold or a machining batch.
At Fundimoldes, 3D printing isn’t an isolated service: it’s connected to engineering, 3D scanning, patternmaking and moldmaking. A printed prototype lets you detect interferences, validate ergonomics and assemblies, and adjust the design while it’s still cheap to change.
It’s also a production tool: patterns and core boxes for sand casting, workholding and inspection fixtures for the plant, and low-demand spare parts for equipment that is no longer cataloged.
Typical industry values; they depend on the equipment, material, size and print orientation.
From 3D model to printed part.
Prototyping and 3D printing
Functional prototypes and geometry validation models in FDM and SLA resin.
02 / 033D scanning and inspection
Part digitization, reverse engineering and comparison against CAD.
03 / 03Engineering and design
3D CAD, reverse engineering and production-ready technical documentation.
FDM or SLA: two technologies, two purposes.
FDM prioritizes strength, size and cost; SLA prioritizes detail, finish and accuracy. Many projects use both at different stages.
| Criterion | FDM · filament deposition | SLA · photocurable resin |
|---|---|---|
| Principle | A thermoplastic filament is melted and deposited in layers through a nozzle. | A laser or light source cures liquid resin layer by layer. |
| Layer resolution | 0.1–0.3 mm; visible layers | 0.025–0.1 mm; nearly smooth surface |
| Precision | Medium; suitable for form and general fit | High; fine details, text and crisp edges |
| Mechanical behavior | Real thermoplastics; lower strength between layers than along them | More isotropic; properties depend on the resin formulation |
| Post-processing | Support removal; optional sanding or painting | Washing, UV curing, support removal and finishing |
| Ideal for | Functional prototypes, large parts, fixtures, spare parts | Presentation models, small detailed parts, master models |
Beyond the prototype: six ways to use 3D printing in manufacturing.
The greatest value comes when 3D printing connects with conventional processes instead of competing with them.
Validation before the mold
Form, fit, assembly and ergonomics checked with a physical part before cutting steel.
Casting patterns
Printed patterns and core boxes with metal shrinkage already compensated in CAD, useful for short runs and complex geometries.
Master models
High-detail SLA parts that serve as masters for silicone molds or resin replicas.
Fixtures and jigs
Workholding, go/no-go gauges and inspection fixtures fitted exactly to the part.
Low-demand spare parts
Discontinued parts rebuilt through 3D scanning, when load, temperature and environment allow.
Design iteration
Several versions of a part in a few days to compare alternatives side by side.
The material is chosen for what the prototype needs to prove.
A model for reviewing appearance doesn’t need the same material as one that must withstand load, heat or bending.
| Material | Technology | Characteristics | Recommended use |
|---|---|---|---|
| PLA | FDM | Rigid, accurate, easy to print; low heat resistance | Form models, mockups, geometry validation |
| PETG | FDM | Tough, somewhat flexible, good chemical resistance | Functional prototypes, housings, fixtures |
| ABS · ASA | FDM | Higher heat resistance; ASA is weather resistant | Functional and outdoor parts, prototypes of injection-molded parts |
| Fiber-filled nylon | FDM | High stiffness and mechanical strength | Plant fixtures, brackets, load-bearing parts |
| TPU | FDM | Flexible, elastic, abrasion resistant | Seals, dampers, grips, rubber prototypes |
| Standard resin | SLA | High detail and smooth finish; brittle under impact | Presentation models, master models |
| Engineering resins | SLA | Tough, flexible or high-temperature formulations | Functional testing of snap fits, clips and heat-exposed parts |
The properties of a printed part are not the same as those of the same material injection molded. Final material validation is done with parts from the production process.
From file, idea or physical part to validation.
The result depends as much on preparation and post-processing as on the printing itself.
Input
Your CAD model, a design from scratch or a 3D scan of an existing part.
Technical review
Minimum wall thicknesses, assembly clearances, material and the right technology.
Preparation
Orientation, supports and layer parameters based on the part’s function.
Printing
Layer-by-layer fabrication in FDM or SLA.
Post-processing
Washing and curing for resin, support removal, sanding or surface finishing.
Verification
Dimensional inspection and, when applicable, 3D scan comparison against CAD.
Customer testing
Assembly, use and feedback on the physical part.
Move to production
Design freeze and transfer to molding, casting or machining.
Six rules for prototypes that actually help you decide.
A prototype poorly designed for the process can lead to false conclusions about the final part.
Minimum walls
As a reference, 1.2 mm in FDM and 0.6 to 1 mm in SLA. Below that, walls warp or break when supports are removed.
Overhangs and supports
Surfaces inclined more than 45° from vertical need supports, which leave marks. Orienting the part well reduces both.
Orientation and strength
In FDM, the bond between layers is the weak plane. Main loads should run along the layers, not across them.
Assembly clearances
For mating parts, allow roughly 0.2–0.4 mm in FDM and 0.1–0.2 mm in SLA depending on the type of fit.
Threads and inserts
Printed threads wear quickly. For repeated assembly, use heat-set metal inserts.
Hollow resin parts
In SLA, enclosed volumes trap liquid resin. Drain holes are included so they can be washed and cured.
What we print most often.
What we’re asked most about 3D printing.
FDM or SLA for my prototype?
If you need strength, size or low cost, FDM. If you need fine detail, a smooth surface or a small high-precision part, SLA. In the technical review we recommend the technology based on what the prototype needs to prove.
Can the prototype be used for functional testing?
It can validate form, fit, assembly and moderate loads. Its properties are not identical to those of the injection-molded or cast part, so final material validation is done with parts from the production process.
Can you print from a physical part without drawings?
Yes. The part is digitized by 3D scanning, the CAD model is rebuilt and, if needed, wear is corrected before printing.
What if my part is larger than the build volume?
It is split into sections with joints designed for assembly and bonding, making sure the seams do not affect critical areas.
Does the prototype replace the mold trial?
No. It reduces the risk of reaching the mold stage with design errors, but the mold sample is still the validation of the actual process.
What files should I send?
STEP for engineering or STL/3MF for direct printing, along with quantity, intended use and finish requirements.