Frequently Asked Questions
Welcome to the Bandhdelta knowledge hub. We understand that additive manufacturing can be complex, whether you are an engineer developing a functional prototype or a designer creating a detailed architectural model. To ensure your project is successful and the final part meets your expectations, we have compiled this comprehensive guide. Below you will find detailed answers regarding our technical capabilities, business rules, and the administrative side of our production process in Brisbane.
If you cannot find the answer to your specific technical query here, we encourage you to reach out to our team via the contact page. For detailed legal obligations regarding your orders, please refer to our Terms and Conditions and our Privacy Policy.
Ordering and Digital Files
What file formats do you accept for 3D printing?
We primarily work with STL and STEP files. STL is the industry standard for 3D printing as it describes the surface geometry of a 3D object. However, for technical engineering parts where high precision is required, we prefer STEP files as they allow for more accurate measurements and modifications. If you do not have a 3D model, we offer professional 3D modelling services to convert your sketches or 2D drawings into printable geometry.
Is there a minimum order value for printing services?
Yes, to maintain the viability of our professional studio operations in Brisbane, we have a minimum order value of A$45. This applies to the total value of the order, including any combined services such as printing and post-processing. If your project falls below this amount, we suggest bundling multiple iterations or adding post-processing services to reach the threshold.
How do I submit my project for a quote?
The most efficient way is to use our contact form and attach your 3D files or provide a link to a cloud folder. Please specify the required material (e.g., PLA, ABS, or Tough Resin) and the desired quantity. Our project coordinator will review the geometry for printability and provide a detailed quote within 24 hours.
Do you provide the final 3D file after modelling?
If we perform the 3D modelling as part of your order, the final file in STL or STEP format will be provided to you upon full payment of the invoice. This ensures you have the intellectual property of the design for your records or future modifications. All such transfers are governed by our Terms and Conditions.
Materials and Technical Specs
What materials do you offer?
We maintain a diverse inventory to suit different mechanical and aesthetic needs. For FDM printing, we use PLA, PETG, and ABS. For high-resolution SLA printing, we offer Standard Resin and Tough Resin for parts requiring higher impact resistance. You can read more about the specific properties of these materials in our material choice guide.
What is the maximum part size you can print?
Our largest FDM machines have a maximum build volume of 400x400x400 mm. If your part exceeds these dimensions, we can often split the model into multiple interlocking components that can be assembled and bonded after printing. Please consult with our lead engineer during the quoting process to determine a suitable splitting strategy.
What is the dimensional accuracy of the prints?
We operate with a dimensional tolerance of 0.2 mm. This means the final printed part may vary by up to 0.2 mm from the digital model due to material shrinkage and thermal expansion. For parts requiring tighter tolerances, we recommend designing "clearance" into your joints or utilizing our post-processing services for precision sanding and fitting.
Can you print functional parts for industrial use?
Yes, using ABS or Tough Resin allows for the creation of durable, functional prototypes. However, please note that we do not produce certified medical implants or critical aerospace/automotive components that require official safety certification. We provide the parts for prototyping and testing purposes; the responsibility for the application of the part lies with the client.
Timelines and Delivery
How long does it take to get a prototype?
Our average prototype lead time is 3 days from the moment the order is confirmed and the deposit is received. This includes the preparation of the print file and the printing process itself. More complex projects or those requiring extensive post-processing may take longer, which will be specified in your individual quote.
Do you offer urgent printing services?
We can accommodate urgent requests depending on our current machine availability. For projects that must be prioritised in the queue, an urgent fee of 30% is added to the total cost of the order. Please mark your enquiry as "URGENT" in the subject line when contacting us via [email protected].
How will I know when my part is ready?
Once the printing process is complete, we perform a quality check. We then send a photo of the finished part to your email for approval before we proceed with packaging or shipping. This ensures that the result matches your expectations before the part leaves our Brisbane studio.
Do you store my digital models for future orders?
To make re-ordering easier for our clients, we store your 3D models in our secure archive for 6 months after the completion of the order. After this period, files are permanently deleted to comply with our data minimisation policies. If you require longer storage, please let us know, and we can discuss a custom arrangement.
Payment and Legal
What are your payment terms?
For all standard orders, we require a deposit of 50% before we begin the production process. The remaining balance is due upon completion and prior to delivery or pickup. For established B2B clients with a registered business account, we offer a payment term of 14 days from the date of invoice.
Are your prices inclusive of tax?
All prices listed on our website and in our quotes are shown as inclusive of GST (10%) unless explicitly stated as "ex GST". This ensures full transparency for both private individuals and business customers who may be claiming GST credits.
Who owns the rights to the models I send?
The intellectual property rights to any model provided by the client remain exclusively with the client. Bandhdelta does not claim any ownership over your designs. We treat all provided files as confidential. For highly sensitive industrial projects, we can provide a separate Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA) upon request. Our handling of your personal and project data is detailed in our Privacy Policy.
What items are you unable to print?
To comply with legal regulations and ethical standards, we strictly refuse to print weapons or their components, medical implants, and any copies of trademarked designs or copyrighted models without explicit written permission from the rights holder. Any attempt to order such items will result in the immediate cancellation of the order and forfeiture of the deposit as per our Terms and Conditions.