For various reasons, original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) are not always the best source for replacement parts. A growing number of people and companies are looking to 3D printing as a way to replicate parts that they otherwise would struggle to procure. This is especially true in the automotive, construction, and hardware technology industries.

Anyone who is creating a physical product should be familiar with the difference between Proof of Concept, Prototype, and Minimum Viable Product. One of the most cost-effective and time-saving ways to create and iterate hardware products is through 3D printing.

Before you can “press print” on a 3D printer, you must first have a digital 3D model of your part(s). 3D models can come in a variety of CAD file types that can be opened and edited in 3D modeling software. One of the most common discussions we have with clients is what types of 3D model files we need for quoting and 3D printing parts.

As daily users of a variety of 3D printing technologies, we want to share our list of the three best innovative 3D printers for beginners in business. These might not be the best printers for children and/or hobbyists, but if you’re looking to use your 3D printer as a way to generate income, look no further than these three machines.

Recently, a client came to us wanting to reverse engineer and 3D print an automotive trim clip for certain models of Mercedes-Benz’s. The original injection molded parts are no longer being produced yet there are still car enthusiasts that need them for restoration purposes.