3D printing may seem like advanced and complex technology to you. But it is not that difficult to understand the basics of how it works and how it can change the world. This technology is not new but it’s been in use for years. But of course, the technology is evaluated at every new moment. It can be used to print prototypes, make art objects, manufacturing tools, prosthetics, and even complex parts used in aerospace.
In the beginning, the technology was mainly used in creating physical models for architecture and engineering. But today, 3D printers have made a substantial shift to other areas of life such as manufacturing and the health industry. Many 3D printing platforms are available online that offer management devices like Cloud 3D Panel to help you control and manage 3D printing workspace and generate more profits.
What Is Meant By The Term ‘3D Printing’?
3D printing technology is also known as additive manufacturing and is used to create three-dimensional objects. Simply put, it is a process that creates objects using the deposition of material on the base of a machine. You can connect with one of the 3D printing platforms online and see how this technology is used in their 3D printing workspace.
3D printing is a way to create a physical object by adding layer upon layer of material on top of one another. Starting with a 3D model, the computer creates an object using materials such as plastic, metal, etc., and then fuses tiny particles together with heat and pressure.
What is a 3D model?
A 3D model is a digital file of any object you would like to print or copy. The file can be created using software such as AutoCad or any other 3D modeling program. You may want to visualize the object in your imagination before you use it online. When you do this, the computer will automatically convert it into a three-dimensional file for later printing or just making copies of that. Devices such as Cloud 3D Panel available in the market can help you slice, view and monitor sliced 3D objects.
Most Common 3D Printing Technologies
While there are several technologies used to print three-dimensional objects, in this guide we will only focus on the most common. With the rise of 3D printing, research techniques have been developed that allow a range of materials to be used in conjunction with these technologies. There are three main types of 3D printing used in most 3D printing workspaces:
1st Generation – Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM)
The first generation uses two-layer feedstock materials extruded through a nozzle heated by an AC current or hot filament such as ABS to make the object layer by layer. The machine that operates this process is called a 3D printer. Although the process is considered to be a “three-dimensional” printing, the object generated has only two dimensions as it exists in two planes, not three.
2nd Generation – Selective Laser Sintering (SLS)
This second-generation uses laser lasers that heat fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) material to melt it. In the SLS process, a laser is used to solidify particles of resin into the desired format by “sintering”, which means to bind something together with heat.
3rd Generation – Stereolithography (SLA)
The third generation is a bit different from the previous two as it uses a vat of liquid photopolymer and a UV light to produce three-dimensional models by curing them layer-by-layer.
Which Material Can Be Chosen?
3D printers are used for a wide range of applications that are created using a variety of materials. Here is a list of some common materials that are used by people and available on online 3D printing platforms. Select a material according to your own needs based on color, transparency, and strength. Some commonly used 3D printing materials are listed below:
1. Plastic
Many 3D printers use the filament of plastic. The material is available in various colors and materials such as ABS, nylon, polypropylene, acrylic, and other materials with low melting temperatures.
2. PLA
A biodegradable plastic made from corn starch or sugarcane molasses that has a smoother surface. Its strength is also higher than ABS. It has a bright white color when you melt it in the printer. It does not contain toxic chemicals or volatile organic compounds (VOCs).
3. PETG and PCTG
In the polymer family, this material has a transparent window that can be filled with food coloring, which makes it suitable for making cosmetic items. It has a higher melting temperature than ABS and nylon, as well as varies in transparency.
4. Metal
Other than ABS and PLA, some plastic parts can also be printed by using metal, such as aluminum, bronze, copper, and iron. Some metals are conductive; they can be used in devices that need flexible circuits. However, metals have a relatively high melting point compared to plastics.
Which 3d Printer Should I Choose?
The following is a list of general features to look at before purchasing printers for your 3D printing workspace:
Print speed: The printing speed defines how fast an object can be printed (seconds per layer). This is one of the most important factors that determine your speed to print an object.
Nozzle diameter: The nozzle diameter determines the width, and thus the area that the print head is able to heat during printing. The wider the nozzle diameter, the wider and more detailed objects can be printed.
Material printer uses: A printer that uses a material with a low melting temperature has lower printing costs because heated filament can be used more than once.
The software used by the printer: It allows you to edit the design as you like before printing it. Besides, there is a wide range of slicing softwares that you can use for printing an object such as Cloud 3D Print, TinkerCad, etc.
Bottomline
3D printing has a long way to go, but it is not too late to start. It is definitely a worthwhile business line to start and use it as a hobby, especially for those who like engaging in creative design projects.
You can get all the required softwares from one-stop 3D print platform i.e. Cloud 3D Print. They will also help you digitize your 3D Printing workspace with the help of their product i.e Cloud 3D Panel. Without wasting more time, get up and be ready to learn new technology.
