The Upload

Your blog feed for digital manufacturing resources, in-depth features, and industry news.

Latest Posts

part sample finished with electroless nickel plating
Finishing Options
March 24, 2026

Advantages of Electroless Nickel Plating

How electroless nickel coatings improve corrosion resistance and wear performance.
By Protolabs
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UAV drone
Defense Manufacturing
March 18, 2026

How to Accelerate Defense UAV Prototyping Under ITAR Constraints

With a U.S. based, AS9100 and ITAR certified manufacturing footprint, we help teams meet domestic sourcing requirements and support programs operating under Executive Order driven urgency.
By Protolabs
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global supply chain
Supply Chain
March 17, 2026

Cutting Through the Tariff Noise: How Companies Can Stay Agile Amid Policy Shifts

Here’s the bottom line: prototypes were and will be duty free, while rates on commercial goods saw only a small decrease after the latest rounds of actions. That means the smartest play isn’t chasing headlines; it’s building agility into your sourcing strategy.
By Protolabs
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CNC surface finishing
Post Processing
March 11, 2026

Finishes That Prevent Rust in Metal Parts

Protective coatings and surface treatments that extend part life and improve corrosion resistance
By Protolabs
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Drones
3D Printing
March 6, 2026

Manufacturing Lightweight Drone Parts with Advanced MJF

With advanced Multi Jet Fusion technology, engineers can build lighter parts for drones.
By Protolabs
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SLS jig and fixture
Product Life Cycle
March 3, 2026

MRO Manufacturing for On-demand Production Support

Fast, reliable MRO manufacturing to support maintenance, repair, and operations without long lead times
By Protolabs
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Metal powder 3D printing
3D Printing
December 16, 2025

DMLS vs. SLM 3D Printing

Understand the subtle differences in SLM and DMLS 3D printing technologies to choose the right technology for your project.
By Protolabs
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Injection Molding: Aluminum vs. Steel Tooling
Tech Tips
December 12, 2025

Aluminum vs. Steel Tooling

Compare these two ways to make injection-molded parts
By Protolabs
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Aluminum Bead Blasted
Materials
November 19, 2025

Materials for Heat Sinks

Learn how heat sinks work for thermal management, and how to choose between aluminum, copper, graphite, and composites. Includes manufacturing tips and design guidance.
By Protolabs
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Materials
Materials
October 29, 2025

What Is Ductility? Material Selection for Engineers

Ductility is the ability for a material to deform without breaking. Learn why it matters in manufacturing, how it's tested, and where it's applied.
By Protolabs
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Anodized parts
Secondary Operations
September 18, 2025

Benefits of Aluminum Anodizing for Metal Parts

Discover how anodizing enhances aluminum parts, offering durability, corrosion resistance, and vibrant finishes.
By Protolabs
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UV printing for IM parts
Injection Molding
September 10, 2025

Pad Printing vs. UV Printing: Comparing Post-Processing Options for Molded Parts

Compare the advantages and applications for pad printing and UV printing on your injection-molded parts
By Protolabs
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