The Digital Thread

Discover the strongest 3D printing filaments, from carbon fibre nylon to high-temp ULTEM, and how to choose the right material.

An overview of materials with flame-retardant characteristics and the UL 94 classification.

A quick guide to what knurling is, how it works, and where it's used—plus patterns, benefits, and design tips for engineers.

Use digital manufacturing which can include scientific molding processes, combined with specific quality assurance and control methods, to produce parts rapidly and consistently.

Discover how anodising enhances aluminium parts, offering durability, corrosion resistance, and vibrant finishes.

A side-by-side guide to two of the most popular 3D printing materials, what they do best, and how to choose between them

Compare aluminium alloys to find the material that best fits your project needs.

What does it take to build a car capable of crossing a continent on nothing but solar power? Find out how Brunel Solar Team, the world’s most decorated solar racing team engineers a winning formula as they prepare for the 2025 Bridgestone World Solar Challenge.

Get to know the latest trends shaping the future of manufacturing in 2025. From overcoming supply chain challenges and leveraging AI, to enhancing sustainability and embracing digital innovation, we explore navigating industry-wide challenges with cutting-edge technologies.

Engineers and designers often face this decision when prototyping or producing complex metal parts. Each process comes with strengths and limitations. This guide breaks down the differences, from materials and surface finishes to cost, speed, and complexity, so you can choose the method that best fits your needs.

See our recommendations for selecting 3D printing materials that are best suited to rapid prototyping. Find out which materials are most durable, cost-effective and commonly used to validate various types of products.

Explore how digital manufacturing techniques aid in process traceability for injection moulding.