What is 3D Printing & How Does it Work?
- 3D Printing is the process of creating objects by depositing layers of material on top of one another. 3D Printing is called additive manufacturing (AM) instead of traditional subtractive methods like CNC milling when used for industrial production.
This technology has been around for about four decades, invented in the early 1980s. While 3D printing started out as a slow and costly technique, extensive technological developments have made today’s AM technologies more affordable and faster than ever.
- A digital 3D model is sliced into hundreds of thin layers by dedicated software to export in a 3D printing format that the 3D printer reads to know precisely when and where to deposit material.
Common 3D Printing Technologies:
- FFF (Fused Filament Fabrication) which uses spools of material that are fed through a heated computer controlled nozzle.
- SLA (Stereolithography) This is an overhead laser that cures a photo-polymer
- SLS (Selective Laser Sintering) Overhead Laser fusing powdered polymer into solid parts.
- While many other technologies currently exist the 3 technologies above are by far the most mainstream currently.
What is 3D Printing Used For?
- Consumer wise 3DP can create personalized trinkets and decorations, practical household objects, figurines, and more – However 3DP presents the strongest advantages for professional/Industrial use cases.
- Rapid Prototyping – As and engineer or designer makes their way through the design process 3DP gives the user the ability to hold a quick part in their hands to do check fit, check ergonomics, and communicate the design intent to others.
- End-Use-Parts - Today's industrial-grade 3D printed parts are of such good quality, and industries can use them directly in the final product.
- Jigs, Tools, & Fixtures - Tooling is another leading use for 3D printing. 3D Printed tools, jigs, and fixtures can be produced without holding back the production chain due to a missing device.
This also enables professionals to adapt their tools and utensils to the object or part they are working on and not the other way around.
- Mass Customization - Mass production offers the significant advantage of lowering costs at scale. 3DP is enabling brands to mass-produce customized objects. Manufacturers can benefit from the same economies of scale while offering the added value of customization to their customers.
3D Printing Materials – Plastic represents the most common 3D printing material today. All 3dDP polymers can be broken up into 3 main categories.
- Standard Grade - Both hobbyists and professionals often use standard plastics. They include PLA, ASA, and ABS, which are easy and faster to 3D print.
- Engineering or Performance Grade - Like Nylon, Polypropylene, Polycarbonate, or PETG,engineering plastics are tougher to print, requiring higher extrusion temperatures, slower speeds, and, typically, a closed frame to protect from drafts or temperature changes.
- High Performance – Carbon Fiber infused engineering grade materials add strength, rigidity, and higher temperature tolerance. The upper end of these materials include PEEK & PEKK. These material typically require a higher temperature machine with a much hotter printing chamber.