1) What type of files do you accept?
We use .stl files to print your prototypes. You can either send us a high resolution .stl file or send us native Pro E, Solidworks, or Inventor files. You can also send .stp or .igs files.

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2) What is an .STL file?
An .STL file is a neutral file format for rapid prototyping. STL files are a "Save As" option from any 3D CAD software. Click this link to view instructions for saving CAD files to .stl files.

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3) Is colored material available?
Yes you can have your ABS models printed in 7 different ABS colors. You can choose from white, green, red, yellow, blue, steel grey, and black. If a color is not specified your models will be printed in the default color which is white. [Color Samples]
You can have the acrylic polymer models in white, black, blue, and translucent. [Color Samples]
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4) Is there an additional charge for colored models?
There is no additional charge for colored ABS models. Your model will cost the same regardless of what color you choose.
There is a color swap charge of $50 for acrylic polymer models.
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5) How durable is ABS?
Unlike appearance prototypes produced in weak materials, ABS (acrylnitrile butadene styrene) models have been used for functional and field tests - from wind tunnel testing to camera mounts on a M1A Bradley tank and a spray gun running at 60 psi.

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6) Is post-processing required?
Post-processing is not required. The model will retain its shape and accuracy indefinitely.
ABS parts can be sanded, milled, drilled, tapped, painted and even electro-plated.

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7) Can I finish or paint these parts?
Yes. ABS Models can be sanded, primed and painted to look like an actual production part.

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8) What form of payment do you accept?
We accpet company POs (OAC), VISA, and MasterCard.

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9) Are there any size limitations on models?
No we do not have size limitations on the prototypes that we print. If the prototype is bigger than the build space the CAD file will need to be divided, printed as separate pieces, and then bonded together. (additional fees may apply)

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10) What is the turn around time on models?
Turn around time depends on the size and complexity of your design, but it could be as quick as a couple of hours.

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11) What happens if the file is incorrect?
Once ProtoCafe receives a file, it will be analyzed to ensure that it can be printed properly. If there is a problem, you will be contacted with an explanation.You can either revise the file yourself or we can fix it for you (additional fees may apply).

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12) Do you offer SLA?
Yes we do offer SLA...but we also offer something better. It's a polymerjet which offers the same surface finish, but it has tighter tolerances, stronger material, and is less expensive.

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13) What other materials do you offer?

- ABS: The material of choice by leading manufacturers and engineers because of its strength and lending itself to be a true representation of the actual product. It is also very popular due to its ability to be post processed or finished (see finishing services for more information).
- Acrylic polymers (similar to SLA): Stronger than SLA and holds tighter tolerances
- Polycarbonate
- Polycarbonate ABS blends
- Rubber-like flexible material

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14) Do you offer model finishing?
Yes ProtoCafé offers complete model finishing services from hand sanding to whatever you need to give you tradeshow quality models.

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