ONLY AVAILABLE TO OUR CLIENTS THAT WE DO 3D CAD DESIGN WORK FOR
With 3D Printing we can provide rapid prototyping or final solutions for you ideas, or products. 3D Printing is the future of product development for all plastic shapes, which can be assembled together to more complex (possible moving) prototype or product. To learn more about 3D Printing please see Wikipedia.
To get more information and pricing, please email us your 3D computer model. We accept most file types, however we would prefer a STL (.stl), OBJ (.obj), STEP (.stp) or IGES (.igs).
3D Printing via Stereolithography (SLA)
We can provide you with 3D prints via Stereolithography (SLA). From our experience SLA 3D Printing is the best 3D Printing technology. Selective Laser Sintering (SLS) 3D prints are high precision, but are weak and generally not suitable for function testing. In the past we have used FDM 3D Printing for function testing, due to its high strength. However SLA is just as strong as FDM, if not stronger with some resins. The only issue with SLA is it is more costly.
In summary SLA 3D Printing is high resolution, high strength & precision, and outstanding surface finish!
SLA Printing Areas
- Form-2 - 145 L x 145 W x 175 H mm
NOTE: We can create bigger parts, via splitting and gluing.
SLA Resolution
0.05mm or 0.025mm (however we generally do flexible at 0.1mm).
NOTE: We can do higher resolutions, if you would like to save on time and machine-hour costs.
Tech Specs / Resin Datasheets
https://formlabs.com/3d-printers/tech-specs/SLA Material / Resin
Heat Deflection Temp:
| @ ~65 psi | 73°C |
| @ ~260 psi | 58°C |
Heat Deflection Temp:
| @ ~65 psi | 289°C |
| @ ~260 psi | 130°C |
3D Printing via Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM)
We can also provide you with 3D prints via Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) 3D printers, which is great for quick validation of your physical design. The primary issue with these prints is shrinkage and warpage can occur on models and is purely geometry dependent.
FDM Printing Areas
- UP BOX+ - 255 L x 255 W x 205 H mm
(ideal for high quality/precision) - Replicator Z18 - 305 L x 305 W x 457 H mm
(ideal for large prints) - Replicator 2X - 246 L x 152 W x 155 H mm
(ideal for filament experimentation)
NOTE: We can create bigger parts, via splitting and plastic welding or gluing.
FDM Resolution
0.1mm (however we generally do flexible at 0.25mm).
NOTE: We can do higher resolutions, if you would like to save on time and machine-hour costs.
FDM Material / Filament
Other materials/colours are possible, but adds lead time.
How Do We 3D Print Your Object?
To 3D print an object, a 3D computer model is required. You have three options:
- Email us your 3D computer model - we accept most file types, however we would prefer a STL (.stl), OBJ (.obj), STEP (.stp) or IGES (.igs).
- Ask us to create your 3D computer model.
- 3D scanning and post-processing.
Our capacity: 1x SLA 3D printer and 3x FDM 3D printers.
How Do We Charge?
Our printing prices are based on three factors:
- Man-hours: Includes print setup, part removal, support material removal, hand finishing where required, assembly if required, and in some large part cases gluing or plastic welding. This is done at our typical mechanical engineers hourly rate.
- Machine-hours: Rate based on type of machine (e.g. SLA or FDM). This is a low hourly rate.
- Materials: The cost of the filament or resin used for the print. The material includes the actual part and the support material. Generally a negligible cost.
Our minimum order is $180 + GST, mostly due to the labour involved for support material removal and hand finishing if/where required.
One-off Part?
Are you looking for a one-off part to replace something that is broken, or no longer on the market? Unfortunately, we are confident that in most cases 3D Printing services is not financially feasible.
Generally 3D Printing is used for new product development prototyping. And therefore is a cheaper alternative to production methods such as plastic injection moulding, blow moulding, etc.
Information About Wards River
Your Home in Wards River: COLETEK's Unwavering Support for the Mid North Coast Community
Nestled along the scenic Wards River, Mid North Coast, New South Wales, Australia, our community is a hub of vitality and growth. As your trusted partner, COletek is committed to empowering local businesses and fostering a strong, vibrant economy that benefits everyone. Our roots run deep in this picturesque region, where we've established lasting connections with residents and entrepreneurs alike. With over [X amount] years of experience in delivering innovative solutions nationwide, COletek has built a reputation for being a reliable Australian company that truly understands the unique needs of businesses in Wards River and surrounding areas. Our team of dedicated professionals takes pride in their role as custodians of local progress, working closely with clients to identify opportunities, overcome challenges, and seize new horizons. In an era where trust is paramount, COletek remains steadfast in its commitment to transparency, fairness, and unwavering support. Our local presence allows us to stay abreast of regional developments, respond promptly to changing circumstances, and provide tailored guidance tailored to the Wards River community's distinct character. As a result, we've cultivated strong relationships with our clients, who appreciate our proactive approach, expertise in identifying and mitigating risks, and forward-thinking strategies. In fact, many have benefited from our counsel during times of uncertainty or growth spurts, leveraging COletek's resources to strengthen their market position, improve operational efficiency, or capitalize on emerging trends. By partnering with us, businesses in Wards River can tap into a wealth of knowledge, networks, and best practices honed through years of experience across Australia. Our national reach enables us to connect our clients with top-tier talent, cutting-edge technologies, and industry insights, further enhancing their capacity for innovation and expansion. Wards River, Mid North Coast, New South Wales, Australia is more than just a location – it's a thriving community built on resilience, friendliness, and a deep appreciation for the good life. At COletek, we're honored to be a part of this fabric and are committed to using our skills, expertise, and networks to help drive growth, prosperity, and progress in every corner of this beautiful region. Contact Us to discover how COletek can support your Wards River-based business and contribute to the area's continued resurgence.3D Printing Services for Wards River – Our Clients: Big Brands & Small Businesses
3D Printing Services for Wards River – Amazing Customer Testimonials
We have used COLETEK on a couple of occasions and found their service to be professional and on time. We specialise in engineering and design of height safety equipment and since a lot of parts are made by casting from stainless steel we require a quick model before we proceed with the tool manufacture. COLETEK has been able to provide this quickly saving us valuable time and giving us peace of mind knowing our parts will look right when casted from stainless steel.
Intuitive, innovative & efficient are three words that would appropriately describe the COLETEK service. Luke and the team at COLETEK have taken our concepts to the next level.
COLETEK have provided one to one communication throughout the development process and gone above and beyond in bringing our ideas closer to becoming a reality! Luke's expertise and knowledge with computer software and electronics is Jedi like, but what I liked most about working with him was his willingness and ability to think outside of the box.
As the proprietor a DIY environmentally pest control products business I have been more then impressed with COLETEK's design capability and professionalism in assisting to realise an idea into reality. From concept, CAD drawings, 3D modelling, alterations right through to the finished product. I am extremely happy with our new termite control product. I have no hesitation in recommending COLETEK's services.
I was grateful to find Luke Cole at COLETEK in the early days of an invention idea. He was very patient and generous with information to guide me along the way. And even though I did not preceed with my project, I would still recommend his services. Thank you.
Founded in 2001, we are a multiple award winning, highly experienced multidisciplinary company specialising in lean product development through rapid prototyping - transforming ideas from concept to life. Our industry-leading team combines deep expertise, cutting-edge technology, and advanced equipment to validate emerging ideas—transforming them into market-ready hardware and software solutions.
Our experience dates back to the 1990s with ANU "Robotics Systems Lab", CSIRO, NICTA (aka Data61), Seeing Machines, Location Aware Technologies, and Hemisphere GPS (aka BEELINE). For over 10 years now, we've been focused on validating R&D and taking ideas to commercialisation.
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