FOR OUR 3D CAD / NPD CLIENTS
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.
Here is the long-form SEO-optimized HTML content block for COLETEK's website:Trusted Engineering and Product Development Expertise in Port Stephens
As a multidisciplinary Australian engineering and product development company established in 2001, COLETEK has earned a trusted reputation for delivering innovative solutions to businesses across Port Stephens, New South Wales, Australia. Our team of experienced engineers and developers collaborate closely with clients to understand their unique challenges, then leverage our expertise to develop tailored products that drive success.
In Port Stephens, we've developed close relationships with local business owners and decision-makers who appreciate the value our approach brings to projects of any size or complexity. By supporting businesses throughout Greater Newcastle and Northern NSW, we've gained a deep understanding of regional needs and challenges – allowing us to develop solutions that meet the specific requirements of industries such as agriculture, manufacturing, healthcare, and more.
At COLETEK, reliability is key. We understand that projects can be complex, high-stakes affairs with significant budgets and timelines attached. That's why we've built our business on a foundation of trust, integrity, and expertise – ensuring that every client receives the personalized support they need to meet their goals. Whether working on-site or remotely, we're committed to delivering top-tier solutions that exceed expectations.
We've earned national recognition for our capabilities in engineering, product development, and testing – services that have benefitted businesses operating throughout Australia, from Port Stephens in the north to Melbourne in the south and across every region in between. Whether your company is looking to launch a new product, optimize an existing process, or simply gain a competitive edge, COLETEK has the expertise, creativity, and know-how to help you achieve your objectives.
Based in Port Stephens, New South Wales, Australia, COLETEK is uniquely positioned to serve businesses across our local region. If you're looking for a trusted partner to bring your ideas to life, we invite you to explore our capabilities further – and discover how our multidisciplinary expertise can benefit your company.
Let’s build something remarkable together.
Contact Us3D Printing Services for Port Stephens – Our Clients: Big Brands & Small Businesses
3D Printing Services for Port Stephens – 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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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