Compare 3D Printing Materials

Wax materials are a special type of material commonly used in 3D printing, primarily applied in rapid prototyping and precision casting. They offer excellent flowability and moldability, allowing for high-precision detail during the printing process. Red wax, in particular, has a vivid color, usually deep red, hence the name “red wax.” One of its key features is its ability to melt quickly when heated, facilitating subsequent casting processes, making it especially suitable for jewelry, art sculptures, and the manufacture of complex mechanical parts.

In addition, red wax materials have moderate hardness and a smooth surface, requiring minimal post-processing after printing, which helps maintain the accuracy and surface quality of the print. Because it can be melted at high temperatures, it is also commonly used in the “lost wax casting” process, playing a crucial role in precision casting.

Inconel 718 is known for its outstanding high-temperature strength, creep resistance, and corrosion resistance. The material can withstand operating temperatures above 700°C while maintaining excellent fatigue and fracture resistance. Through additive manufacturing, GH4169 can produce parts with complex geometries and is widely used in aerospace engines, gas turbines, high-temperature molds, and high-performance industrial components.
Disadvantages: High cost; complex heat treatment process; thin-walled structures require careful design; default surface roughness Ra10–12.

17-4 PH stainless steel is a precipitation-hardening stainless steel known for its excellent hardness and corrosion resistance. Through vacuum solution heat treatment and H900 aging treatment, printed parts can achieve high strength, high hardness, and good wear resistance. 17-4 PH stainless steel is suitable for manufacturing industrial components that require high strength, corrosion resistance, and complex structures, such as aerospace parts, molds, and high-load machinery.
Disadvantages: Low elongation (≤16% after heat treatment); weak magnetism after heat treatment.

3D printed aluminum alloys, represented by AlSi10Mg and other aluminum-silicon-magnesium alloys, combine lightweight characteristics with excellent mechanical properties. They offer an outstanding strength-to-weight ratio, good corrosion resistance, and thermal conductivity, and demonstrate excellent fatigue and fracture resistance after heat treatment. The material is easy to form, weld, and machine, making it ideal for aerospace, automotive, and tooling applications where lightweight design and structural complexity are critical. Finished parts are typically shot-peened for surface treatment. If you require any other post-processing, please inform our customer service clearly.
Disadvantages: Poor heat resistance (maximum 120°C); surface roughness around Ra10, with slight pits and visible layer texture.