Lattice Structure 3D Printing

Lattice structures can be used in 3D printing to give a part excellent sound and shock absorption and excellent mechanical properties.

Lattice Structure 3D Printing Services Offered by Fathom / /

Fathom is ready to work with you on your lattice structure 3D printing project. Let us utilize our single-source global network to support your low- and high-volume projects. By leveraging both additive and advanced technologies, Fathom can produce high-quality parts that will satisfy our customers.

Lattice structure 3D printing is one of 28 manufacturing processes offered by Fathom. Additional manufacturing services include:

Additive Manufacturing

• FDM
• SLS
• SLA
• Polyjet
• MJF
• DMLS
• DLS
• STEP (Evolve)

CNC Machining

• CNC (3 & 5 Axis)
• CNC Lathe
• Precision Grinding
• Wire & Sinker EDM

Injection Molding

• Injection Molding
• Tooling
• Compression Molding

Metal Cutting and Forming

• Thermoforming
• Sheet Metal Punching
• Sheet Metal Cutting
• Metal Forming
• Laser Cutting
• Water Jet Cutting
• Chemical Etching
• Welding
• Micro Cutting

Standalone

• Die Casting
• Urethane Casting
• Composite Layups
• Extrusion
• Post Processing & Finishing
  • Pad Printing
  • Powder Coating
  • Bead Blasting
  • Surface Grinding
  • Polishing
  • Anodize
  • Powder Coat Passivate
  • Chemfilm
  • Vacuum Metallization
  • Silkscreen
  • Plating
  • Tumbled

Lattice Structure 3D Printing Quote Times / /

Upload your design to Fathom’s SmartQuote online platform and receive a quote in as little as 1 hour, usually within 24 hours. Do you need a lattice structure 3D printing quote, or would you like to learn about other manufacturing services? Fathom’s lattice structure 3D printing lead times are as follows:

• Parts an as soon as same day with SLS

How Lattice Structure 3D Printing Differs from Other 3D Printing / /

Lattice structures are architectural shapes made of struts, beams and nodes. Rather than printing in a solid block, additive manufacturers can easily 3D print in a lattice structure to add excellent mechanical properties such as shock absorption and noise dampening to a part. We can observe examples of lattice structures all around us; crystals, bones, bridges and more. The Eiffel Tower is an example of a lattice structure because it is made of mostly air, with its metal structure supporting its weight and height. The Eiffel Tower’s ability to be made of mostly lattices while having a high strength-to-weight ratio is what makes it a notable architectural landmark.

Plastic 3D printing is an additive manufacturing technology that makes 3D parts by layering plastic materials. Many different manufacturing methods fall under the plastic 3D printing category, including SLS, Polyjet, FDM, etc. Plastic 3D printing manufactures lightweight parts with custom or complex geometries, prototypes and end-use parts. The advantages and applications of plastic 3D printing depend on the manufacturing method used, design, and material selected.

Metal 3D printing, sometimes called metal additive manufacturing, is a proven technology that uses powdered metal material to create 3D parts in layers. A wide range of materials is used for metal additive manufacturing, making it possible to produce many components that cannot be made using CNC manufacturing methods. Both metal 3D printing and lattice structure 3D printing can produce structurally strong parts, but lattice structure 3D printing parts will be of a lighter weight.

Lattice Structure 3D Printing Machines Used by Fathom / /

Fathom’s manufacturing facilities are powered by over 530 machines, including mills, lathes, presses, press brakes, turret punches and additive systems. Fathom provides not just lattice structure 3D printing services but also hybridized services leveraging 3D printing. Need lattice structure 3D printing as part of a more complex project? Fathom can handle it. A recent case study is listed below where Fathom delivered 20,000 parts in 27 days using 55+ tools, including 3D printing services:

Case Study //

Real Customers. Real Results.

A customer came to Fathom with a complex project that spanned the technologies and processes of rapid production—and needed it done fast. Fathom delivered.

20,000 Parts // Within 27 Days

15,000

55+ Tools to Injection
Mold 15,000 Parts

First Article in 2 Weeks

3,000

3,000+ 3D
Printed Parts

2,000

2,000+ Metal
Fabricated Parts

Hybridized Services Used //

3D Printing / Additive Manufacturing—PolyJet, SLS, MJF.

DFM Analysis + CAD Mods.

CNC Machining. Laser Cutting.

Stamping. Die Cutting. Post-Opp Drilling.

24-hour Turnaround Urethane Casting.

Injection + Compression Molding.

Model Finishing. Insert Assembly.

Advanced Project Management.

86 3D Printing machines including:

• Stratasys Polyjet and FDM Systems
• Nano Dimension PCB 3D Printing Systems
• Desktop Metal 3D Printing Services
• Nano Dimension DragonFly 2020 Pro
• Studio System by Desktop Metal
• Production System by Single Pass Jetting (SJP)

Fathom’s production centers include Stratasys 3D printing and additive manufacturing equipment—high-end machines with a wide variety of material options.

3D Printing Processes / /

PolyJet

This proven technology offers the widest variety of materials to support many industries and application types. Create ergonomic tooling, biocompatible surgical guides or realistic prototypes that closely resemble finished products. These systems 3D print in fine layers to create smooth surfaces and highly complex geometries. For material properties, choose from rubber, to rigid, and transparent, to opaque—other options include neutral to vibrant color and standard to bio-compatible. PolyJet is often used by product developers in medical, electronics, consumer products and other industries with similar application requirements. Learn more about PolyJet.

Fused Deposition Modeling

This proven technology enables users to build parts with the same engineering-grade thermoplastics as those used in injection molding and other traditional manufacturing processes. Create durable prototypes and production parts, all on a single machine. Choose from various 3D printed materials for toughness, electrostatic dissipation, translucence, biocompatibility, UV Resistance, VO flammability and FST ratings. FDM is often used by designers and engineers in aerospace, automotive, medical and other industries with demanding application requirements. Learn more about Fused Deposit Modeling.

Stereolithography (SLA)

Stereolithography produces medium to large-sized parts with high-resolution finishes. Also known as SLA, stereolithography creates aesthetically pleasing parts that are durable. During SLA, a laser traces a shape dictated by the original file across the surface of the resin bath. The resin touched by the laser hardens, then the build platform descends in the resin bath and the process is repeated until the entire part is complete. Standard SLA materials include Accura 25 and Accura Clearvue. Finishing options include strip and ship, sanded, bead blasted, rapid paint, rapid clear show quality paint or clear. Stereolithography can make parts for dentistry, manufacturing, prototyping, educational research, medical technology and more. Learn more about Stereolithography.

Selective Laser Sintering (SLS)

SLS is a fast manufacturing process that can produce parts with complex geometries with no support material needed. Selective laser sintering is powder-based. During SLS, a laser sinters the cross-section of the part to fuse the powder. The z stage then drops one layer, and the process begins again until the build is finished. Parts are then excavated from the build powder cake so the excess powder can be removed. The unused powder in the build envelope acts as the support structure, eliminating the need to remove support structures after the build process. Materials used for SLS include Nylon PA12, TPU 88A, PA12 Glass Bead, PA 11 and PA 11 Fire Retardent. AMT PostPro3D is used to finish parts made using SLS. Applications of SLS include prototypes, consumer goods, sporting goods, aerospace components, tooling, hinges, housings and more. Learn more about Selective Laser Sintering.

Carbon Fiber 3D Printing

Carbon fiber 3D printing can make parts with increased strength and stiffness, good dimensional stability and a lighter weight than metal. Carbon fiber is made of carbon atoms that are bonded together in a long chain. This chain is between 5-10 micrometers in diameter. Carbon fiber is stronger than steel, weighs less and is twice as stiff. Carbon fiber is combined with other materials to create a composite material or carbon fiber reinforced material. The composite is a combination of a polymer or sometimes ceramic. Fathom uses Carbon-Filled Nylon 12 for 3D printing. Carbon Fiber 3D printing can make propellers, car parts, bike frames, airplane wings and more. Learn more about Carbon Fiber 3D Printing.

Multi Jet Fusion (MJF)

Multi Jet Fusion produces cost-effective parts that are eco-friendly and have a smooth surface. MJF technology builds parts by laying down a thin layer of powder on a print bed over and over. The inkjet array in the print carriage sweeps over the print bed, jetting two agents downward—a fusing agent, printed where the powder will fuse and a detailing agent used to reduce fusing at the part boundary achieve greater detail. Materials available for MJF include Nylon 12. AMT PostPro3D is used as a post-processing solution for smoothing multi jet fusion parts. Applications of MJF include prototypes, housings, parts with fine features and complex geometries, parts with smooth surfaces and low volume production. Learn more about Multi Jet Fusion.

Fathom’s Locations for Lattice Structure 3D Printing / /

Fathom has 2 US-based locations that offer injection molding, providing nationwide coverage to the entire United States. Fathom’s advanced prototyping and manufacturing services include injection molding, CNC machining, chemical etching, metal 3D printing and more. We have provided over 200,000 quotes to leading U.S. companies and are ready to provide you with a quote today.

Locations include:

HEADQUARTERS
1050 Walnut Ridge Drive
Hartland, WI 53029
ISO 9001:2015
AS9100:2016
ITAR

CALIFORNIA
620 3rd Street
Oakland, CA 94607
ISO 9001:2015 Design Certified
NIST 800-171 Compliant
ITAR

Lattice Structure 3D Printing Materials List / /

Additive manufacturing allows for a wide variety of materials to be 3D printed, including polymers, metals, and ceramics. The material selected for lattice structure 3D printing can affect the finish; therefore, the material’s characteristics may be different after manufacturing. Materials used during 3D printing include:

Polymers

• ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene)
• PLA (Polylactide), soft PLA
• PC (Polycarbonate)
• Polyamide (Nylon)
• Nylon 12 (Tensile strength 45 MPA)
• Epoxy Resin
• Wax
• Photopolymer Resins

Metals

• Aluminum Alloys
• Cobalt-Based Alloys
• Tool Steels
• Nickel-Based Alloys
• Stainless Steels
• Titanium Alloys
• Precious Metals (gold, silver)
• Copper Alloys

How Lattice Structure 3D Printing Quotes are Estimated / /

Several important factors determine the cost of lattice structure 3D printing, including the design, material, quantity ordered, and turnaround time. While creating a design for 3D printing, it is important to include self-supporting angles to reduce the amount of material needed and eliminate the need for supports. Focus the part’s design on performance while reducing the number of parts necessary for a larger piece, which will help cut down on assembly time. Lattice structure 3D printing is compatible with a variety of materials, from polymers to metals. When selecting the best raw material for your 3D printing project, consider how the material is expected to perform as well as the environment in which it will operate. Lattice structure 3D printing is best for projects that require a low to medium volume of units or that call for a variety of customizations. The 3D printing manufacturing method does not require a tool to be developed for every part, allowing greater design flexibility. For example, a job requiring several iterations of a single part can be made cost-effectively using 3D printing. Lattice structure 3D printing is a fast manufacturing process because secondary or finishing processes are often unnecessary. When a job calls for a higher quality finish, post-processing services are available through Fathom.

Advantages of Lattice Structure 3D Printing / /

Lattice structure 3D printing offers many benefits. One of the most significant advantages is weight reduction while still maintaining structural integrity. Using the lattice structure, engineers can increase the overall surface area in a structurally sound manner. The position and thickness of a lattice structure can be altered to create greater impact resistance and shock absorption. Designers can also incorporate vibration and noise dampening elements. Heat dissipation is another advantage of lattice structures. As lattice structures are hollow by nature, heat can be dissipated at a higher rate. The nature of 3D printing allows a design to quickly be adjusted and customized to meet a part’s application requirements.

Lattice Structure 3D Printing Finishing Processes / /

Lattice structure 3D printed parts can have the same look and finish as a part made using CNC manufacturing. The finish required will depend on the 3D printing technology used. Finishing may include:

• Support Removal: Support removal varies by the technology used and may involve using a water jet, chemical bath, digging or removing the support by hand.
• Sanding: Sanding is needed if there are traces of the support structure. A part may be sanded by hand or using a machine.
• Mass Finishing: Mass finishing is used when sanding by hand is too time-consuming. Parts are placed in a tub along with sanding/polishing media. While the part is tumbled inside the tub, the movement and media remove the imperfections.
• Painting: Painting is needed when a part’s color or texture must be changed. Parts may be dyed, painted, or sprayed with specialty paint to change the object’s texture during painting.
• Electroplating: Electroplating is used to increase the strength of a part by adding an exoskeleton or giving the part a look of higher quality material. Electroplating immerses the part in a solution of water and metal salts. An electrical current passes through the solution, allowing metalations to form around the object.
• Bonding: Bonding is necessary when a part is printed in smaller pieces that require assembly to create a larger part. Bonding uses solvent bonding, super gluing, epoxies, hot air welding, or ultrasonic welding.
• Infiltration: Infiltration will add strength, water tightness and chemical resistance to a fragile 3D printed part. During infiltration, an epoxy resin is brushed onto the object’s surface. The resin sinks into the pores within the material. The part is cured using heat.
• Bead Blasting: Bead blasting prepares a part for painting. Glass or plastic beads are sprayed by a blaster gun, leaving a uniform matte finish.

Examples of Lattice structure 3D printing Parts / /

Lattice structure 3D manufacturing gives many industries the option to innovate their design and gain a competitive advantage. 3D printing allows businesses to wait until there is a demand for a part, then quickly meet that need through 3D printing. Lattice structure 3D printing has been used for many businesses, including:

• Aerospace
• Automotive
• Medical
• Dental
• Consumer Goods

Lattice Structure 3D Printing Quotes FAQs / /

Q: Does Fathom offer Lattice structure 3D printing?

A: Yes, Fathom offers lattice structure 3D printing.

Q: What is Lattice structure 3D printing?

A: Lattice structure 3D printing uses lattice structures in the design of a part to reduce weight and add excellent mechanical properties.

Q: Is Fathom ISO certified?

A: Fathom’s certifications include ISO 9001:2015, ISO 9001:2015 Design, and ISO 13485:2016. For site-specific certifications, please visit https://fathommfg.com/fathom-manufacturing-certifications.

Q: Is Fathom ITAR certified?

A: Yes, Fathom is ITAR certified. For site-specific certifications, please visit https://fathommfg.com/fathom-manufacturing-certifications.

Q: Is Fathom AS9100:2016 certified?

A: Yes, Fathom is AS9100:2016. For site-specific certifications, please visit https://fathommfg.com/fathom-manufacturing-certifications.

Q: Is Fathom NIST 800-171 certified?

A: Yes, Fathom’s certifications include NIST 800-171. For site-specific certifications, please visit https://fathommfg.com/fathom-manufacturing-certifications.

Q: What is lattice structure in 3D printing?

A: Lattice structures are architectural crisscross shapes made of struts, beams and nodes.

Q: Why are lattice structures used?

A: Lattice structures are used to strengthen a part while reducing weight.

Q: What is a lattice print?

A: A lattice print is a 3D printed part made using a lattice design.

Q: How do you create a lattice structure?

A: Lattice structures are added during the design phase of a project using CAD software.

Related Topics / /

• Metal Additive Manufacturing Services
• Same-Day, Next Day 3D Printing

How to Get Lattice Structure 3D Printing Quotes / /

Are you looking to get Lattice structure 3D printing quotes or calculate costs for an upcoming project? Fathom’s SmartQuote application provides fast quotes for any file.