3D Printing Overview and Tips

Intro

So, you want to learn how to 3d print? This article should give you a good idea of the basic theory and mechanics behind 3D printing or additive manufacturing, as its called in professional circles. It will also provide you with some tips and resources to help you create your first successful 3D print.

The What

3D printing is a relatively new way to create physical 3D objects from digital models. Before 3D printing became popular and accessible, objects were often created using molds or subtractive manufacturing. With the advent of cheaper electronics and parts, 3D printing has become an important tool for prototyping both in professional fields and with hobbyists.

3d Printing Methods

• Fused Filament Fabrication
  • The most common type of 3D printing that uses a heated extruder to feed filament onto a build plate
• Light Polymerized
  • Uses light to harden a photopolymer layer by layer
• Powder Bed
  • Uses lasers, heat or electron beams to hardened powdered materials layer by layer
• Laminated
  • Cuts cross sections out of a thin material such as paper, metal foil or plastic film and adheres them together layer by layer

As you can see the key phrase with 3D printing is layer by layer, this is the principle that makes additive manufacturing unique. Rather than starting with a block of material and cutting it away to reveal the final shape, 3D printing creates a shape by adding raw materials until the shape is created. This can result in faster manufacturing times and less waste.