General | FAQ | All Resources | AIHFABS FAQ

General | FAQ | All Resources | AIHFABS

• What is AIHFABS?+

  AIHFABS is an online 3D printing quote and manufacturing platform that helps engineers, designers, businesses, and makers compare materials, processes, supplier prices, lead times, and finishing options before placing an order.

• Who is AIHFABS best suited for?+

  AIHFABS is suitable for product designers, engineers, startups, industrial teams, hardware developers, artists, hobbyists, and procurement teams that need custom prototypes, functional parts, visual models, or small-batch production without managing multiple suppliers manually.

• What 3D printing technologies does AIHFABS support?+

  AIHFABS supports common professional 3D printing technologies including SLA, DLP, SLS, MJF, SLM, and FDM. These processes cover resin parts, nylon parts, flexible components, metal parts, visual prototypes, and end-use functional parts.

• How does AIHFABS help reduce 3D printing cost?+

  AIHFABS reduces project cost by allowing users to upload CAD or STL files, compare quotes from vetted suppliers, select suitable materials, review lead times, and avoid unnecessary email-based RFQ communication. The main value is lower total project cost, not only a lower unit price.

• Is AIHFABS suitable for confidential CAD files?+

  AIHFABS positions file privacy as a key service feature. The platform states that uploaded design files are protected through encrypted storage, controlled access, and privacy-focused handling, which is important for engineering teams and product developers working with proprietary designs.

• What materials can buyers choose from on AIHFABS?+

  Buyers can choose from resins, nylons, TPU, polypropylene, metals such as aluminum, titanium and stainless steel, and composite materials such as carbon fiber or glass fiber reinforced options. Material selection should be based on strength, detail, flexibility, heat resistance, transparency, surface finish, and application requirements.

• How should a buyer choose between SLA, SLS, MJF, FDM, and SLM?+

  SLA and DLP are usually selected for smooth, high-detail resin parts. SLS and MJF are often suitable for durable nylon functional parts and small-batch production. FDM is commonly used for economical prototypes and larger plastic parts. SLM is used when metal strength, heat resistance, or high-performance requirements are necessary.

• What should users check before uploading an STL file?+

  Users should check whether the STL file is watertight, correctly scaled, free from non-manifold geometry, clear in wall thickness, and exported with a reasonable triangle count. Poor file preparation can cause quote errors, production delays, or failed prints.