FDM vs SLA vs Aluminium Moulds
Same machine. Same recycled plastic. Three different mould types. Watch the results side by side in a live 30 minute demo.
What you'll see
We inject recycled Polypropylene into three mould types using the SDS Injection Mini V2, all in the same session. You see the process, the parts, and the differences in real time.
FDM 3D Printed Mould
A mould insert printed on a standard desktop FDM printer. The most accessible option for prototyping and classroom use.
SLA Resin Mould
A higher resolution resin printed insert. Finer surface detail, but different thermal and durability characteristics.
CNC Aluminium Mould
A full CNC machined aluminium mould from the SDS Premium Moulds range. The professional benchmark for surface finish and longevity.
Both 3D printed inserts sit inside the SDS PM#13 aluminium mould holder, so all three mould types run on the same machine with the same setup. The comparison is direct and fair.
Session breakdown
Setup and introduction
Quick overview of the three mould types, the machine, and the recycled PP we are using.
Live injection: FDM mould
We load the FDM printed insert into the mould holder and run the first shot. You see the process, the cycle time, and the finished part.
Live injection: SLA mould
Same process with the SLA resin insert. We compare surface finish and part quality against the FDM result.
Live injection: Aluminium mould
The full aluminium mould goes in. We compare all three parts side by side and talk through the pros and cons of each approach.
Live Q&A
15 minutes for your questions. Ask about materials, settings, costs, classroom applications, or anything else.
Who this is for
This session is designed for anyone exploring desktop injection moulding with recycled materials. It is especially useful if you are:
- A teacher or technician considering injection moulding for your school or college workshop
- Running a makerspace or community workshop and want to see what is possible with recycled plastic
- An entrepreneur or small business exploring desktop scale manufacturing for product development
- Curious whether 3D printed moulds are a realistic option for your application, or whether aluminium is worth the investment
No prior experience with injection moulding is required. We explain everything as we go.
Every attendee receives:
- Links to all relevant resources mentioned in the session
- Full equipment and materials list
- Free downloadable 3D printable mould insert files so you can try this yourself
Ready to see it live?
Tuesday 28 April 2026, 3:00 PM BST. Free to attend, 45 minutes of your time.
Register Free on Calendly → You will receive a confirmation email with the session link after registering.