Tiếng Việt
It is a good fit for mechanical engineering, healthcare, automotive, tooling and any industry that needs fast prototypes and durable, high-precision parts to industrial standards.
CT3D Group is a full-service creative technology ecosystem in Vietnam, specializing in 3D design, 3D scanning, 3D printing, CNC, mold making, resin, composite and metal casting, and pilot production for businesses in every industry. With fast, accurate and cost-effective prototyping, CT3D Group provides end-to-end support from idea → 3D model → prototype → production, serving customers in more than 63 provinces and several international markets. CT3D’s mission is to shorten R&D time, cut production costs and bring 3D technology into everyday life and industry in the simplest, most professional and most effective way. Learn more: https://in3d.edu.vn/
Contact CT3D Group
CT3D Group – professional 3D printing, 3D scanning, design and rapid prototyping services nationwide.
- CT3D Thu Duc – Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi, Hai Phong: in3d.edu.vn – Hotline 0975 008 728 (Mr. Thai)
- CT3D District 6 – Ho Chi Minh City: 3dmaker.vn – Hotline 038 7798308 (Mr. Phuc)
See also: CT3D Group’s metal 3D printing service for detailed advice.
How do metal 3D printing and resin 3D printing differ?
Although both build parts layer by layer, metal and resin 3D printing serve very different needs. Metal printing (SLM/DMLS) uses a laser to selectively melt metal powder such as stainless steel, aluminum or titanium, producing parts with mechanical properties close to cast or forged material. Resin printing (SLA/DLP) uses UV light to cure liquid resin in thin layers, giving a smooth surface and sharp detail, ideal for display models, casting patterns and form-check prototypes.
| Criteria | Metal 3D printing (SLM) | Resin 3D printing (SLA/DLP) |
|---|---|---|
| Materials | Stainless steel, aluminum, titanium and alloy powders | Photopolymer resin (standard, heat-resistant, flexible, castable) |
| Main advantages | Load and heat resistant, usable as real parts | Smooth surface, sharp small details, lower cost |
| Typical applications | Molds with cooling channels, mechanical and medical components | Design prototypes, jewelry patterns, silicone mold masters |
| Post-processing | Build plate removal, heat treatment, finish machining of mating surfaces | Alcohol wash, UV curing, support removal, sanding, painting |
When to choose metal and when to choose resin?
The simple rule is to decide what the part will be used for. If it has to carry loads, withstand heat or go into a working machine, metal 3D printing is worth considering. If the goal is to check the shape, present an idea to a client or make a master for a mold, resin is usually far more cost-effective.
- Choose metal when the part has hollow structures or internal channels that are hard to CNC machine, or when you need a small quantity that must be usable right away.
- Choose resin when you need a good-looking prototype with many small details, fast delivery for design review, or a silicone mold master.
- Combine both: print in resin to lock the design, then print the final version in metal to avoid paying for revisions.
Preparing your file and requirements for an order
For a fast and accurate quote, send a 3D file in STEP or STL format along with the quantity, preferred material, tolerances at mating features and surface requirements. In metal printing, wall thickness and overhang angles strongly affect support placement and post-processing; in resin, very thin or wide flat areas warp easily if not oriented correctly. If you don’t have a file, you can start from drawings, a physical sample or a sketch, and our engineers will build the model. For prototypes that need a very smooth finish or a large size, see the large-format SLA resin 3D printing service for advice on materials and printing options.
Frequently asked questions
Can metal 3D printing replace CNC machining?
Not completely. Metal 3D printing excels at complex shapes, hollow structures and small quantities, while CNC is still more economical for simple geometry and large volumes. In practice, many metal printed parts still need CNC machining of mating surfaces to reach tight tolerances.
Are resin 3D printed parts durable?
It depends on the resin. Standard resin suits display models and form checks, while engineering resins (flexible, impact resistant, heat resistant) can be used for functional prototypes. Resin is generally not suited to long-term outdoor use without a protective coating.
What file format should I send for metal or resin 3D printing?
STEP or STL are the most common. STEP makes it easier for engineers to check and adjust dimensions, while STL goes straight into slicing software. If you only have 2D drawings or a physical sample, we can build a 3D model or 3D scan it before printing.
How long does metal 3D printing usually take?
It depends on the size, quantity and height of the parts on the build plate, plus post-processing such as build plate removal, heat treatment and finish machining. So metal printing usually takes longer than resin; discuss the schedule when you send your file to get an accurate timeline.
Should I test print in resin before printing in metal?
Yes, it’s a cost-saving approach. A resin print lets you check shape, fit and appearance at low cost, and you print the metal version only after the design is final. This lowers the risk of reprinting metal parts, which cost more.
Related services at CT3D Group
- SLM metal 3D printing service
- Large-format SLA resin 3D printing
- Custom 3D printing service
- CT3D Group network: ct3dgroup.com · in3d.edu.vn – Hotline/Zalo 0975 008 728
