What is 3D printing of plastics?

3D printing of plastics has transformed the way we design, prototype, and manufacture components across a wide range of industries—from automotive and healthcare to consumer goods and electronics. As an additive manufacturing technology, it builds three-dimensional objects by depositing material layer by layer, offering exceptional design freedom without the need for molds or custom tooling.

This process has become a strategic asset during early development stages. It allows teams to turn digital models into physical, functional prototypes within hours, dramatically shortening product development cycles and enabling fast iterations before committing to mass production methods like injection molding.

Depending on the application, different 3D printing technologies are used. Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) is the most accessible and widely used, especially for rapid prototyping. It melts thermoplastic filaments such as PLA, ABS, or PETG and extrudes them layer by layer to build parts. For applications that require higher resolution and finer details, stereolithography (SLA) and digital light processing (DLP) use UV-curable resins to produce smooth, precise components. For functional and durable industrial parts, Selective Laser Sintering (SLS) is a robust choice, sintering layers of nylon powder without the need for support structures.

The advantages of 3D printing of plastics are clear. It reduces development time, enables full product customization without additional tooling costs, allows the creation of complex geometries that would be impossible to mold, and supports on-demand or decentralized manufacturing. However, like any technology, it has limitations. Printed parts often don’t match the mechanical properties of injection-molded parts, especially depending on the printing orientation and process. Surface finishes may require post-processing, and material options are more limited compared to traditional thermoplastic grades.

At Plásticos Lezo, we see 3D printing as a valuable complement to our core injection molding processes. We use it extensively in product development to validate part geometries, test functionality, and check assembly before committing to mold fabrication. This approach allows us to be faster, reduce design errors, and optimize costs at critical stages.

We also collaborate with technology partners and specialized providers to offer integrated solutions that combine 3D printing with overmolding, machining, or other traditional processes. In addition, we explore the use of recycled and bio-based polymers, aligning with our commitment to more sustainable manufacturing.

Far beyond its initial role in prototyping, 3D printing of plastics continues to evolve as a versatile, reliable, and strategic tool. At Plásticos Lezo, we incorporate it as part of a flexible, forward-looking industrial vision—one that embraces innovation to deliver smart, efficient, and high-quality solutions.