3D printing is exactly like the word sounds, it prints a 3D, real-life object.

In this article, let’s learn what is 3D printing additive manufacturing?

Additive manufacturing is just another word for 3D printing, it is a concept where different processes are used to create a 3D object using a CAD (Computer-Aided Design). As the name suggests, additive manufacturing is a new way to manufacture products by adding layers upon layers to achieve the desired product. It is different from the conventional subtractive method such as cutting or drilling which entail removing the material to obtain the desired shape. It was a rather long, technical and tiring process.

So, what are the types of 3D printing methods?

There are various types of 3D printing methods that can help you create your product:

• Stereolithography (SLA)
• Selective Laser Sintering (SLS)
• Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM)
• Digital Light Process (DLP)
• Multi Jet Fusion (MJF)
• PolyJet
• Direct Metal Laser Sintering (DMLS)
• Electron Beam Melting (EBM)

For selecting the right 3D printing method, you need to understand the strengths and weaknesses of each method and select as per your requirement. There are certain factors that you should take into consideration while selecting the right 3D printing method like your budget, mechanical requirements, material selection, time, etc.

After you have selected the method that suits your requirement you can select the right 3D printer for yourself, and proceed with the printing. 

But, wait! What will it print from? You need the right material or filament to carve your product. There is a variety of filaments available to choose from, but first, let’s understand the difference between them. Broadly the filaments can be divided into 3 main categories

• Basics: These types of filaments are the most commonly used type of 3D printer filament. They are popular for their ease of use and physical properties. You can create things like mobile phone covers, toys, automotive parts, protective components, etc. They are flexible and easy to print.
• Recreational: The basic filaments focus on physical characteristics like strength, flexibility, and durability, the recreational filaments are popular for their finish, composition, and their exotic nature. Wood is one example that fits this category, it can be used for creating bowls, awards, fancy furniture, decor pieces, etc. These filaments provide aesthetic and functional products.
• Professional: Professional filaments are not commonly used by consumers, they are used selectively for industrial and commercial purposes only. They have strong mechanical properties and are chemical-free. They can be used to create complex and rigid designs.

Let’s discuss in detail, that how does 3D metal printing works.

There are two types of fabrication processes, Selective Laser Melting (SLM) and Direct Metal Laser Sintering (DMLS) that are powder bed fusion 3D printing additive manufacturing processes. The process goes as:

1. The build chamber is first filled with an inert gas like argon, to minimize the oxidation of the metal powder and then it is heated to build the ideal temperature.
2. Then a thin layer of metal powder is spread over the built platform and a high power laser scans the cross-section of the component which is used for melting the metal particles, which creates layer by layer after the first layer dries. The entire design is printed to create a solid object.
3. After the scanning process is complete, the built moves downwards by one layer, and then it is re-coated with a thin layer of metal powder. The same process is repeated until the whole part is completed.

It is a completely technical process, and you might be thinking, how much 3D printing costs?

There are two ways in which you can estimate the 3D printing cost. First is, you buy a 3D printer for yourself or can hire 3D printing services.

So, what are 3D printing services?

If your work doesn’t involve 3D printing regularly, you can hire 3D printing services that will save you time and the hustle of printing. This service can cost $3 to $1000, all depending on the quality, infill, density, complexity of your object.

But if you require 3D printing regularly, hiring a service can cost you more than an actual 3D printer. All you need to do is analyze your requirements and the frequency on which you need a 3D print. You can check our affordable 3D printers here.

You can be a businessman, educator, homemaker, or science enthusiast who needs a  3D printer.

Are you wondering how long does 3D printing take?

Achieving the right 3D print can take from 15-20 minutes to more than 5 years, which depends on various factors like, quality, the type of filament, post-processing, complex or simple design, and the type of 3D printer you select.

Now, when we all are aware of the ins and outs of 3D printing, let’s understand what is 3D printing in the supply chain?

3D printing is expected to have a great impact on the global supply change. It will:

• Decentralize Production: A 3D printer is comparatively light in weight and portable as compared to the traditional heavy machinery used for manufacturing. 3D printing enables small countries and cities to set up production units in their own space of the home. The workers can work more closely in their native places.
• Product Customization: 3D printing will help in adjusting and customizing according to the consumer’s needs as it is quicker and hassle-free. A change just needs to be made in the digital file and it can directly be seen in the final product.
• On-demand Production: In today’s market where the consumer needs and demands are changing regularly, on-demand production is the need of the hour. 3D printing is quicker and can deliver products in hours as compared to the traditional manufacturing methods which take days for planning, training, production, and delivery.

There’s a lot more that can happen through 3D printing. Stay tuned to know more happening things about the 3D printing world.