How does 3D printing work? Well it
is not as complicated as you think. 3D printing also called additive
manufacturing involves creating a solid object by layering it with thin slices
of material, plastic or metal.
1. You create a 3D image of an item
you want to print using CAD software program
2. The CAD program then converts
the drawing into a STL file (Standard Tessellantion Language)
3. The file is then copied to the
computer that controls the 3D printer
4. Once the machine is setup the
building process is automatic, all you have to do is watch the printer work.
That is just a quick take on how 3D
printing works; however, there are 6 different 3D printing technologies
Stereolithography (SLA) is a 3D printing method which is explained
above. The printer requires computer aid design (CAD) file to process the
object. The whole process consists of consequent printing of layer by layer.
Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) technology, is used to print prototype
and final end use products. Pieces printed using this technology has a
good quality that allows companies such as BMW or Hyundai to use printed pieces
for testing of prototypes.
Selective Laser Sintering (SLS) is a technique that uses laser as a power source
to form solid 3D objects using powdered material to construct its objects
Selective Laser Melting (SLM) uses a high-powered laser beam that fuses and
melts metallic powders such as steel, titanium, cobalt chrome and aluminum.
Selective Laser Melting is mainly used in the aerospace and medical
orthopedics industry
Electronic Beam Melting (EBM) is
another type of additive manufacturing for metal parts, the main difference
between SLM and EBM, is EBM uses an electron beam.
Laminated object manufacturing
(LOM) is a rapid
prototyping system that fuses layers of adhesive-coated paper, plastic or metal
together using heat and pressure. Then the printer cut "to shape"
with a computer controlled laser or knife. The LOM method is seen as faster and
more affordable.
With most of the important
technical items addressed, "how 3D printing works", the next post
will be about how to profit from the 3D printing industry, how can you save
money and can 3D printing benefit your business?
How does 3D printing work? Well it is not as complicated as you think. 3D printing also called additive manufacturing involves creat...
