High Volume 3D Printing: The Revolution of Large Scale Production

Index

  1. Introduction to large format 3D printing
  2. Large Scale 3D Printing with TRIDEO
  3. Layer Heights: Defining Finishing and Printing Time
  4. Printing Times on High Volume Pieces
  5. Finishing and Post-processing on High Volume Parts
  6. Materials used in High Volume 3D Printing
  7. Large Volume 3D Printing Applications
  8. Conclusion

Model of a 1m high castle

1. Introduction

3D printing has evolved enormously in recent years, enabling the manufacture of ever larger, faster and better finished parts. At Trideo, we have been taking 3D printing to the next level for several years with our Big T printer , a machine with a printing volume of 1m³ that allows us to produce large objects with precision and efficiency.

If you are looking to print large-volume parts, it is essential to know key aspects such as layer height, printing times, finishes and materials used. In this article, we'll tell you how we optimize our large-scale printing for your various industry applications.

2. Large Scale 3D Printing with Trideo

Our Big T 3D Printer allows us to manufacture parts up to 1 cubic meter (1000x1000x1000mm), a capacity that few companies offer in the 3D printing sector. Thanks to this technology and the capacity of this 3D printer model, we can print from industrial prototypes to furniture and decoration pieces.

Advantages of high-volume printing with the BigT:

  • Reduction of assemblies: Complete parts can be printed without the need to join smaller parts, guaranteeing greater resistance and a better aesthetic finish without visible joints.
  • Optimization of production time: Instead of making multiple prints with small-volume 3D printers, which require assembly time, we manufacture a single large part. Thanks to our high-flow extrusion system, we guarantee fast, high-quality printing.
  • Greater versatility in applications: From art pieces to mechanical prototypes, thanks to a larger print volume, a world of new applications opens up.

Personalized sculpture 2m high.

3. Layer Heights: Defining Finishing and Print Time

Layer height is one of the key factors in 3D printing. It refers to the thickness of each layer deposited during the manufacturing process and affects both visual quality and printing time.

Our 3D printers are equipped with high flow extruders and nozzles of different sizes, allowing us to print with a wide range of layer heights. We have nozzles from 0.6 mm for finer details to 2.5 mm for thicker layers, each optimized for different height ranges, offering flexibility according to the needs of each project.

The most common layer heights in high-volume 3D printing and their impact :

  • 0.3mm - 0.5 mm: High resolution, detailed finish, but long printing times.
  • 0.6mm - 0.9mm: Balance between quality and print speed.
  • 0.9mm - 1.5 mm or more: Fast printing, ideal for prototypes and large parts where fine detail is not crucial.

On our Big T printer, we adjust the layer height according to the end use of the part. For sculptures or decorative elements, we use thinner layers to achieve a detailed finish, while for functional structures, we use thicker layers to optimize printing times without compromising strength.

Replica of a shoe for Marketing Action

4. Printing Times on High Volume Pieces

The printing time depends on several factors, such as the size of the part, the layer height and the filler used. On large-scale prints, the time can vary from a few hours to several days.

Factors influencing printing time:

  • Layer height: The higher the layer height, the shorter the printing time.
  • Internal filler: A higher percentage of filler increases the strength, but also the printing time.
  • Printing speed: We adjust the speed depending on the material and the geometry of the part.

3D printing parameters are defined together with the customer to find the ideal balance between resolution, strength and cost of the final project. The price of a 3D print depends mainly on the material used and the manufacturing time, key factors in the optimization of the process.

5. Finishing and Post-processing on Large Volume Parts

The surface finish of a 3D printed part depends on both the layer height and the print settings. However, in large parts, it is common to perform post-processing processes to improve its aesthetics and strength.

Compared to parts printed on smaller 3D printers, large-volume parts are more likely to have a more pronounced texture and relief due to the use of higher layers. While smaller printers generally work with layer heights between 0.15 mm and 0.3 mm, in large-format prints we use layers from 0.6 mm to 0.8 mm.

As a result, the finish is different: the plastic layers are much more visible, making a post-finishing process necessary in many cases, especially in aesthetic pieces such as sculptures.

Bust of Diego Maradona printed in 1m height with finishing work

Some finishing techniques include:

  • Sanding and polishing: To smooth visible lines between coats.
  • Coatings and paints: We apply primers and paints to improve the visual appearance.

With these processes, we achieve final pieces with a professional finish, ready for use in industrial, artistic or commercial projects.

6. Materials Used in High Volume 3D Printing

In our large-scale printing, we mainly use PLA (polylactic acid), a biodegradable and easy-to-print material.

Advantages of PLA in high volume 3D printing:

  • Good surface quality without the need for complex adjustments.
  • Less warping compared to other materials.
  • Variety of colors and finishes available.

For specific applications, we also work with other materials such as PETG or ABS, depending on the requirements and size of the project.

7. Large Volume 3D Printing Applications

Thanks to the ability to print large objects, the Big T allows us to work in multiple sectors, such as:

  • Architecture and construction: architectural models, decorative elements, concrete molds.
  • Scenography and art: scenery, sculptures, structures for events.
  • Industrial prototyping: Creation of functional parts in large format.
  • Furniture and design: Tables, chairs, lamps and customized decorative elements.

These applications open up a world of possibilities for companies and designers looking for innovative and customized solutions.

Prototype of a full scale table (95cm diameter).

8. Conclusion

High-volume 3D printing has revolutionized the manufacture of large and customized parts, allowing cost reduction, optimizing production times and expanding the range of applications in different sectors.

At Trideo, with our Big T printers, we offer prints up to 1m³ volume, guaranteeing quality, precision and a wide range of customization options. If you are looking to manufacture large parts with the best 3D printing technology, contact us and discover what we can do for you!

1m x 1meter 3D printed decorative painting

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How big can 3D printed parts be?

Thanks to our Big T printer, we can print single parts up to 1m³ volume, without the need for additional assemblies. For larger projects, we can make assemblies of parts to reach even larger volumes.

2. How long does a large volume 3D print take?

It depends on the layer height, infill and part geometry. Some prints may take hours, while others may require days.

3. What materials do you use for large-scale 3D printing?

We mainly use PLA, but we also work with PETG and ABS for specific applications.

Is it possible to paint or modify the parts after printing?

Yes, we perform post-processing processes such as sanding, painting and coatings to improve the final finish.

5. What types of projects can benefit from high-volume 3D printing?

From architecture and construction to art, set design, industrial prototyping and decoration, large-format 3D printing has multiple applications.

6. Is it possible to print large sizes with thin layer heights, as in conventional 3D printers?

Technically, yes! However, printing times would be excessively long, making the process impractical and inefficient for most projects.

Laurent Rodriguez
12/2/2025

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