FAQ

General Questions

What is 3D printing (additive manufacturing)?

Additive Manufacturing (AM) – also known as additive or generative manufacturing – includes modern 3D printing processes used to create components directly from digital 3D data. Companies benefit from greater flexibility, shorter development times, and more efficient processes.

The Advantages of Additive Manufacturing

High design freedom
Complex geometries, internal structures, and functional integration can be efficiently realized – especially in demanding applications.
Innovation through new materials
New materials are continuously expanding the range of possible applications. One example is highly conductive copper in metal 3D printing.
Faster processes
Fewer production steps reduce manufacturing and delivery times and enable significantly faster implementation.

How additive manufacturing works in practice is demonstrated by our four production processes.

For a successful entry, we offer tailored training courses – from basics to advanced levels.

How much does 3D printing cost?

The cost of 3D printing depends on several factors, including component size, material, selected 3D printing process, and quantity. At PROTIQ, prices are automatically calculated based on the uploaded 3D data and displayed transparently during the ordering process.

By directly comparing different providers on the PROTIQ Marketplace, various materials and manufacturing technologies can be evaluated side by side. This gives you an individual cost overview for your component – from plastics and metals to different

How long does 3D printing take?

The duration of the 3D printing process depends on several factors. Key aspects include the selected 3D printing process, the material used, as well as the size and complexity of the component.

At PROTIQ, the uploaded 3D data is automatically checked. Based on this, you will receive an individual estimate of the production time and delivery of your component already during the ordering process.

Materials

What materials are available in 3D printing?

A wide range of different materials is available in 3D printing. Depending on the 3D printing process used, different materials can be processed.

At PROTIQ, each project is evaluated to determine which materials are technically suitable. Which materials are appropriate for your component depends on the intended application and the desired component properties.

Which plastics are suitable for 3D printing?

In 3D printing, various plastics are available, which can be processed depending on the 3D printing process. Plastics are commonly used for prototypes, functional components, and series applications.

At PROTIQ, primarily engineering plastics are used, which differ in properties such as strength, temperature resistance, or flexibility. Which plastics are suitable for your component depends on the intended application and the desired component properties.

Can I have metal printed?

Yes, at PROTIQ metal 3D printing is also possible. Depending on the selected 3D printing process, metal components can be additively manufactured.

Metal 3D printing is particularly suitable for functional components with high requirements in terms of strength, temperature resistance, or mechanical load capacity. Which metals are suitable for your component depends on the intended application and the desired component properties.

Which material is suitable for my component?

Which material is suitable for a component depends on several factors, including the intended application, the mechanical and thermal requirements, as well as the selected 3D printing process.

At PROTIQ, each project is evaluated to determine which materials are technically suitable. The key factors are the desired component properties and the intended application.

Processes

Which 3D printing processes does PROTIQ offer?

PROTIQ uses various 3D printing processes in its own production, which are used for manufacturing plastic and metal components . These include, among others, industrial-level additive manufacturing processes.

In addition to its own production, the PROTIQ Marketplace provides access to a wide range of other additive manufacturing processes from various providers. Depending on the material and requirements, different technologies can be selected.

Technical Questions

Are there size limitations in 3D printing?

Yes, there are size limitations in 3D printing. The maximum component size that can be manufactured depends on the selected 3D printing process. PROTIQ automatically checks the uploaded 3D data during the ordering process.

If a component is too large or too small for the selected process, this is displayed directly. You can then adjust the component size or alternatively select a different process or a different material.

Is there a limit to the quantity?

No, at PROTIQ there is generally no limit to the orderable quantity. 3D printing is suitable both for the production of individual parts and for small and medium series.

Which quantities are economically viable depends on the selected 3D printing process, the material used, as well as the requirements of the component.

Which file formats are supported?

Common 3D printing data is supported for 3D printing. The uploaded files serve as the basis for production and contain all relevant information about the component.

At PROTIQ, the uploaded 3D files are automatically checked to ensure that they are suitable for the selected 3D printing process and the desired material.

How do I upload my file?

To have a component manufactured, upload your 3D printing data directly via the PROTIQ platform. The upload takes place online and forms the basis for further configuration of your component.

After the upload, the files are automatically checked. You can then select the desired 3D printing process as well as the appropriate material and receive a transparent overview of pricing and production.

Delivery & Order

How fast does PROTIQ deliver?

PROTIQ manufactures components individually based on your 3D data. The delivery time therefore depends on the type of production and the project-specific requirements of the component.

After uploading your data in the 3D configurator, a realistic production and delivery time is automatically displayed. This allows you to estimate when your component will be delivered even before placing the order.

Can I use express shipping?

At PROTIQ, the availability of express shipping depends on the specific project. Since each component is manufactured individually, shorter delivery times depend on the selected 3D printing process, the material used, and the current capacity utilization.

After uploading your data in the 3D configurator, the estimated production and delivery time will be displayed. For time-critical projects, it is also recommended to directly contact the PROTIQ team to discuss potential options.

Quality & Application

Which industries is 3D printing suitable for?

3D printing is now used in numerous industries. The technology is particularly suitable for applications where complex geometries, individual components, or short development times are required.

The PROTIQ platform offers a wide range of application areas, including the following industries:

Which industry and application are suitable in each individual case depends on the respective component and the requirements regarding material, function, and quantity.

Can I have prototypes printed?

Yes, 3D printing is particularly well suited for the production of prototypes. At PROTIQ, prototypes can be produced quickly and flexibly based on your 3D data.

3D printing enables designs to be tested at an early stage and adjusted if necessary. On the pages about application areas, you will find further examples of how prototypes are used in different industries.

Is 3D printing suitable for series production?

Yes, 3D printing can also be suitable for series production . Depending on the component, the manufacturing process used, and the material , additive manufacturing enables the cost-effective production of small to medium series.

On the PROTIQ platform, not only individual parts but also series projects are realized. 3D printing offers particular advantages for components with high variation, short development times, or frequent design changes compared to traditional manufacturing processes.

FAQ