3D Printing Material Specifications

Choosing the right material for your part is key to getting the performance, strength, and finish you need. Below you'll find specifications for all the materials we offer, with details on surface finish, heat resistance, strength, and suggested applications.

We offer two main 3D printing methods: FDM (Fused Deposition Modelling) and Resin SLA (Stereolithography).

FDM parts are printed using a heated nozzle and filament – ideal for larger, functional parts. Surface finish can have slight layer lines, but prints are strong and cost-effective. Perfect for brackets, panels, and under-vehicle parts.

Resin printing, by comparison, offers exceptional detail and surface finish. Our professional SLA printer uses a 600 × 600 × 400 mm laser system – ideal for parts requiring smooth surfaces, accuracy, or fine aesthetics. Resin is best suited to dash fascias, trim parts, or display components.

FDM Materials

PLA+ (eSUN PLA+)

• Finish: Smooth matte
• Temp Resistance: ~60–65°C
• Tensile Strength: ~49 MPa
• Best for: Displays, trim panels, interior components
• Limitations: Softens in hot cars, not suited for engine bays

ABS+ (eSUN ABS+)

• Finish: Slightly glossy, good for sanding and painting
• Temp Resistance: ~95–100°C
• Tensile Strength: ~43 MPa
• Best for: Brackets, under-bonnet parts, trims
• Limitations: Slightly brittle, minor warping on flat parts

TPU (eSUN Flexible TPU)

• Finish: Rubbery & soft-touch
• Temp Resistance: ~70–80°C
• Elongation: Up to 500%
• Best for: Gaskets, seals, vibration mounts
• Limitations: Lower dimensional accuracy due to flexibility

Carbon Fibre Nylon (eSUN CF Nylon)

• Finish: Matte, textured black
• Temp Resistance: ~120–130°C
• Tensile Strength: ~60 MPa
• Best for: High-load mounts, engine bay parts, functional brackets
• Limitations: Slightly higher cost. No visible finish options.

Resin Materials

ABS-like Tough Resin

• Finish: Very smooth, matte
• Temp Resistance: ~70–80°C
• Tensile Strength: ~50–60 MPa
• Best for: Dash fascias, digital display housings, cosmetic panels
• Limitations: Brittle if too thin; avoid impact load designs

Flexible Resin

• Finish: Rubber-like, soft
• Temp Resistance: ~60°C
• Shore Hardness: ~70A
• Best for: Soft clips, dust seals, or trim cushioning
• Limitations: Not strong under tension or compression

High Temp Resin (240°C)

• Finish: Slightly glossy
• Temp Resistance: ~240°C
• Best for: Automotive parts near exhausts, engine bay sensors
• Limitations: Slightly more brittle and expensive

Clear Resin

• Finish: Semi-transparent (can be polished)
• Temp Resistance: ~70–80°C
• Best for: Display windows, LED lenses, visual parts
• Limitations: Discolours over time, brittle in thin areas