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The fastest 3D printing techniques

When it comes to 3D printing, speed isn’t just a luxury—it’s often the most important factor for engineers. Processes like binder jetting and DLP are blazing trails in speed, while SLS and FDM balance efficiency and complexity for functional parts. Learn more in this knowledge base article on how to 3D print with speed and precision.

When it comes to 3D printing, speed isn’t just a luxury—it’s often the most important factor for engineers racing against the clock. Methods like binder jetting and DLP (Digital Light Processing) are blazing trails in speed, while SLS (Selective Laser Sintering) and FDM (Fused Deposition Modelling) balance efficiency and complexity for functional parts.  

Whether you're prototyping a new design or producing functional parts at scale, every second counts. So, what are the quickest 3D printing methods, and how can you harness them to hit your deadlines without compromising quality? In this guide, we’ll break down the fastest technologies, the factors that can accelerate (or stall) your printing process, and how to get your parts from concept to creation in record time. 

The importance of speed in 3D printing 

Speed matters in 3D printing, especially for engineers working with tight timelines. Whether you're iterating on a prototype, finalizing production designs, or scaling up manufacturing, the ability to produce parts quickly can mean the difference between hitting deadlines and falling short. As 3D printing evolves, taking projects all the way from prototyping to production-volume runs, speed is of the essence. 

From layer-by-layer breakthroughs to AI advances that fast-track your project, the world of 3D printing is moving faster than you can say “rapid prototyping.” Developments including high-speed technologies like continuous fibre deposition and volumetric 3D printing, as well as the launch of manufacturing networks like ours, have significantly reduced production times. By optimizing your designs for speed and taking advantage of 3D printing solutions with lean lead times, you can bring your products to market faster. And speed to market is a compelling competitive edge.

Speed comparison of 3D printing technologies 

Not all 3D printing methods are created equal when it comes to speed. Here's a breakdown of some of the fastest technologies available 

Technology 

Standard lead times 

Speed advantage 

Industries 

FDM 

2-4 days 

Quicker for simple geometries and small parts 

Education, Manufacturing, Consumer Goods 

SLS 

1-3 days 

Simultaneous laser sintering across entire layers 

Medical Devices, Aerospace, Consumer Products 

SLA 

2-3 days 

High precision with reasonable speed 

Medical, Consumer Electronics, Product Design 

MJF 

1-3 days 

Produces parts quickly with high accuracy and smooth finishes 

Consumer Goods, Automotive, Industrial 

DLP 

1-2 days 

Projects entire layers at once, speeding up resin curing 

Dental, Jewelry, Consumer Goods 

Binder jetting 

2-3 days 

Rapid, high-volume printing with minimal post-processing 

Aerospace, Automotive, Industrial 

Each method has its strengths depending on the material, size, and complexity of your design.  MJF is often used for batch production and high-surface-finish applications. For example, Formify used MJF to quickly produce custom-fit gaming mice, enabling efficient, scalable production of personalized designs. SLS is ideal for churning out complex geometries and functional prototypes. Conquering Horizons utilized SLS to rapidly prototype specialized wheelchair parts, accelerating their product development, while Smart-Ship used SLS to  achieve the high tolerances required for providing haptic feedback in maritime consoles. Parts sourced through Protolabs Network will be matched with the right technology for your timeline and part requirements.

The factors that affect 3D printing speed 

While the printing technology plays a significant role in speed, there are many choices that you can make during the design phase that will influence how quickly parts can be completed: 

  1. Layer height: Choosing thicker layers can significantly reduce printing time because fewer passes are needed. For example, in FDM or SLA, a layer height of 0.2 mm may print twice as fast as 0.1 mm but could result in a rougher surface finish. This trade-off might be acceptable for early prototypes but less so for visual models. 

  2. Material choice: Materials with faster curing or sintering times can cut down production speed. For instance, in SLA, some resins are formulated for faster curing, while in MJF, polyamide (Nylon) powders typically fuse quicker than higher-temperature materials. 

  3. Part geometry: Designs with complex internal structures, overhangs, or unsupported sections often require additional supports, which take time to print and remove. Simplifying designs, such as reducing intricate features or merging smaller assemblies into a single part, can improve efficiency. 

  4. Print orientation: Orienting a part to minimize support material can speed up printing and reduce post-processing. For example, printing a hollow cylinder upright requires less support than printing it horizontally. 

  5. Printer settings: Adjusting infill density can save time—parts printed with 20% infill are faster than those printed solid, though the trade-off is reduced strength. Using faster travel speeds or higher extrusion rates in FDM can also cut production time but may affect detail quality.

Other ways to improve efficiency with 3D printing projects 

Improving efficiency in 3D printing is about optimizing the entire workflow—not just the print job. Here are a few strategies to shave hours, or even days, off your project timeline: 

  1. Design for manufacturability (DFM): Simplify features like small, intricate details or sharp internal corners, which can slow down printing and require additional post-processing. Most CAD software has DFM tools built in, and manufacturing platforms, including Protolabs Network, offer free DFM feedback.  

  2. Batch printing: Arrange multiple parts strategically on the build plate to maximize space and minimize unnecessary print head movement, especially in technologies like MJF or SLA. Printing identical parts together can save time over separate print jobs. 

  3. Streamline post-processing: Use design choices that reduce manual post-processing, such as incorporating smooth surfaces or breakaway supports that are easier to remove. For SLA or FDM, soluble support materials (e.g., PVA) can be used to avoid manual support removal. Opt for quick finishing alternatives like vapor smoothing (for FDM) or tumbling (for SLS) to cut out labor-intensive steps like sanding. 

  4. Reduce assembly steps: Design parts with snap-fit connections, living hinges, or integrated fasteners to eliminate the need for separate assembly processes. Use design techniques like threaded features where durable connections are required without extra effort. 

  5. Plan print orientation and infill density: Choose orientations that minimize the need for supports, which speeds up both printing and post-processing. Use low infill densities where structural strength is not critical to cut printing time while maintaining functionality. 

Speed is always a bit of a balancing act. It can be hard to hit tight deadlines while also achieving tight tolerances. Faster print speeds can sometimes lead to reduced part strength or surface quality, so it's crucial to consider the end-use application when selecting printing parameters.

Lead times for 3D printing with Protolabs Network

Protolabs Network specializes in connecting engineers with the right suppliers to meet even the tightest timelines. Our streamlined processes and AI-powered tools reduce the manufacturing procurement process from days, or even weeks, to minutes. We pair your project with the right supplier in our global network of trusted partners to ensure your parts are printed and shipped with the industry’s fastest lead times.  

*Fastest lead times in business days 

  • FDM: 1 business day 

  • SLA: 2 business days 

  • SLS: 3 business days 

  • MJF: 3 business days 

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Ready to bring your design to life—fast? Get a quote today and see how we can accelerate your 3D printing projects. 

More 3D printing resources 

Looking to dive deeper into 3D printing? Check out these resources: 

CNC machining, 3D printing and sheet metal fabrication parts

Frequently asked questions

Which 3D printing method is fastest?

On the Protolabs Network platform, SLS and MJF are efficient for producing many parts simultaneously, but both require a 48-hour heating and cooling cycle. Note that while SLS and MJF are stable in speed, FDM and SLA are advancing rapidly, with faster and more reliable machines being released each year. 

At a glance: 

  • SLS: Excels in creating complex geometries. 

  • MJF: Offers high production speeds with excellent surface quality. 

  • FDM: Produces parts quickly, especially simpler prototypes, due to non-100% infill and the ability for multiple machines to operate simultaneously. FDM parts can often come ready off the build plate, reducing post-processing. 

Does faster printing mean lower quality?

Not necessarily. With the right design optimizations and material choices, you can achieve high-quality parts without slowing down the process.

How can I reduce lead times further?

Working with a network like Protolabs ensures your project is matched with the right supplier and technology to minimize delays. 

Can I print large parts quickly?

Yes, 3D printing can be used for small and large parts with fast lead times but the technology and settings you choose will play a big role. SLS and binder jetting are often preferred for larger volumes.

 

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