What is 3d printing

What is 3d printer?

A 3D printer is a machine that creates three-dimensional objects by adding material layer by layer, following a digital design. This process is known as additive manufacturing.

3D printing is a form of additive manufacturing technology where a three-dimensional object is created by laying down successive layers of material.

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It is also known as Additive manufacturing.

3D printing is achieved using an additive process, where successive layers of material are laid down in different shapes.

 

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How It Works:

1. Design the Model – A 3D model is created using software like Tinkercad, Fusion 360, or Blender.
2. Slice the Model – The model is converted into layers using slicing software (e.g., Cura, PrusaSlicer).
3. Print the Object – The printer follows the sliced instructions to build the object layer by layer.

 

Types of 3D Printing Technologies:

• FDM (Fused Deposition Modeling) – Uses a heated nozzle to melt plastic filament (e.g., PLA, ABS).
• SLA (Stereolithography) – Uses a UV laser to cure liquid resin into solid layers.
• SLS (Selective Laser Sintering) – Uses a laser to fuse powder materials like nylon or metal.

Applications:

• Prototyping
• Manufacturing parts
• Medical (prosthetics, dental models)
• Art and design
• Education

 

Classification of Manufacturing Techniques

Most manufacturing technologies can be categorized into one of 3 groups. At the simplest level, these groups can be defined as:

1. Formative manufacturing: Best suited for high volume production of the same part, requiring a large initial investment in tooling (moulds), but then able to produce parts at a very low unit price.
2. Subtractive manufacturing (e.g. CNC): Best suited for parts with relatively simple geometries, produced at low to mid volumes.
3. Additive manufacturing (or 3D printing): Best suited for low volume, complex designs that formative or subtractive methods are unable to produce. Common usage is for unique, one-off rapid prototypes or end-use parts.

 

Types of 3D Printers

There are several types of 3D printers based on the technology they use:

1. FDM (Fused Deposition Modeling) / FFF (Fused Filament Fabrication)

• How it works: Melts and extrudes plastic filament (PLA, ABS, PETG) through a heated nozzle layer by layer.
• Common uses: Prototyping, hobby projects, functional parts.
• Pros: Affordable, widely available, easy to use.
• Cons: Lower resolution compared to other methods.

2. SLA (Stereolithography)

• How it works: Uses a UV laser to cure liquid resin into solid layers.
• Common uses: High-detail models, dentistry, jewelry, miniatures.
• Pros: Very high precision, smooth surface finish.
• Cons: Resin can be expensive and requires post-processing (cleaning, curing).

3. DLP (Digital Light Processing)

• How it works: Similar to SLA but uses a digital projector to cure entire layers of resin at once.
• Common uses: Dental models, jewelry, small detailed parts.
• Pros: Faster than SLA, high detail.
• Cons: Resin cost, requires post-processing.

4. SLS (Selective Laser Sintering)

• How it works: Uses a laser to fuse powdered material (nylon, metal) into solid objects.
• Common uses: Industrial-grade prototypes, strong mechanical parts.
• Pros: No need for supports, strong and durable prints.
• Cons: Expensive, requires specialized equipment.

5. MJF (Multi Jet Fusion)

• How it works: Uses inkjet-like technology to apply fusing agents on powder, then heat solidifies the layers.
• Common uses: High-quality industrial parts, functional prototypes.
• Pros: Strong, detailed prints, fast production.
• Cons: Expensive, primarily used in industries.

6. DMLS/SLM (Direct Metal Laser Sintering / Selective Laser Melting)

• How it works: Uses a laser to fuse metal powder into solid metal parts.
• Common uses: Aerospace, automotive, medical implants.
• Pros: Produces real metal parts with complex geometries.
• Cons: Very expensive, requires safety precautions.

7. Binder Jetting

• How it works: Uses a binding agent to glue powder particles together, then solidifies the object.
• Common uses: Full-color 3D prints, sand casting molds, metal parts.
• Pros: Can print in full color, lower cost for metal parts.
• Cons: Requires post-processing, lower mechanical strength.

8. PolyJet

• How it works: Similar to an inkjet printer, but deposits liquid photopolymer that is cured layer by layer.
• Common uses: High-detail prototypes, multi-material prints.
• Pros: Can print in multiple colors and materials.
• Cons: Expensive, fragile parts.

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