3D Printing for Architecture: Scale Models, Facade Fragments, and Decorative Elements

Protype CD400 (IDEX)PLAABSPET-GASA
3D Printing for Architecture: Scale Models, Facade Fragments, and Decorative Elements

Building and masterplan models, full-size facade fragments, and decorative interior elements.

Typical jobs

01

Competition model

The model is split into sections, printed, assembled, and painted. After a design change only the affected sections are reprinted.

02

Full-size facade fragment

A fin or panel in ABS or PET-G lets the client see light, shadow, and texture before the design is approved.

03

Masterplan model

Buildings in one colour, terrain and landscaping in another — the two IDEX heads print both in one pass.

04

Decorative panels

The shape is approved on a PLA prototype, then a short run is printed in ABS or PET-G. Every panel can be different.

When not to print

  • Fine detail at 1:500, such as mullions and railings: layer lines show, and resin printing is more precise.
  • Facade or structural elements for the building itself: printing is for models and samples.
  • More than two colours in one model: the rest is done with paint.

Materials

PLAPET-GABSASAPVA (soluble support)

Print and drying settings are in the materials catalogue.

Equipment

Models are printed on the CD400: two independent IDEX heads put two colours or materials into one model.

FAQ

Need a model?

Send the model and we will suggest a scale, a section split, and a material.

Application areas

What parts different industries print

Industries Protype printers are suited for

01

Mechanical engineering

Mechanical engineering

Applications

Jigs, gearboxes, brackets.

What it gives

Tooling is printed in the shop, without ordering from a subcontractor.

02

Railway

Railway

Applications

Fasteners, sensor housings, cable channels.

What it gives

The spare part prints on site instead of waiting for the warehouse.

03

Medical

Medical

Applications

Anatomical models, medical device housing prototypes.

What it gives

Models from CT and MRI data, with no molds.

04

Education & R&D

Education & R&D

Applications

Fixtures, gears, trays.

What it gives

A new prototype variant — the same day.

05

Aerospace

Aerospace

Applications

Covers, ducts, fasteners.

What it gives

Complex lightweight geometry without milling.

06

Petrochemicals

Petrochemicals

Applications

Mechanisms, housings, training models.

What it gives

Material and shape are checked before ordering production tooling.

07

Shipbuilding

Shipbuilding

Applications

Supports, gaskets, small hardware.

What it gives

Parts print at the shipyard instead of waiting for a supplier.

08

Instrumentation

Instrumentation

Applications

Enclosures, covers, PCB holders.

What it gives

The board changed — reprint the enclosure, no mold rework.

Don't see your industry?

Send a drawing or describe the part — we'll tell you whether 3D printing suits it.

We'll calculate the savingsfrom 3D printingfor your production

We'll evaluate your parts, compare with your current method, and show where 3D printing is more cost-effective.

  • Cost comparison: current method vs 3D printing
  • Which parts and tooling are worth switching
  • Material and equipment recommendations

Or reach out directly

WhatsApp / Telegram is the fastest.

Drawing, 3D model or photo (optional)

Drag & drop a file here or click to select

STL, STEP, 3MF, PDF or a photo — up to 25 MB

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Response within 24 h on business days. Quote — up to 48 h.