What is 3D Printing?
3D printing is a process in which an object is constructed by precisely applying successive layers of a material on top of each other.
There are a variety of 3D printers for different purposes. To learn which service is most appropriate for you, please contact us.
Regardless of which 3D printer is used, the object first must be modeled digitally. This data is then typically exported in the STL format. This digital model is then cut into layers and converted to instructions for the machine. The printer then begins laying down each layer, the new surface gelling with the last, allowing an object to be created almost exactly as it exists digitally.
FDM 3D Printers:
FDM (Fused Deposition Modeling) machines are the most affordable forms of 3d printer. Essentially, plastic is melted through a heated nozzle. The software guides this nozzle in precise lines, laying plastic to match the geometry of the object. The video above demostrates a simple FDM 3D printer. FDM printing is good for a quick, rough prototype. However it lacks quality for finished products, and performs poorly with geometry that is not self-supporting. There are libraries of objects such as Makerbot’s Thingiverse designed for these affordable printers.
Powder-Based 3D Printers:
Other forms of printer lay a sandstone-like powder. The software determines which areas of the powder to make solid (to construct the object) and which to leave loose. An adhesive then binds the object’s volume together while leaving the remaining powder alone. The end result is a finished object is pulled out of a large cube of loose powder. The unrequired powder remains loose, and is brushed off the object. Often, the printed object is then dipped in a curing agent to give it more strength. These printers can recycle the unwanted powder for new jobs. Some printers will drop coloured ink with the adhesive, allowing for coloured objects straight out of the printer.
SLS (Selective Laser Sintering) 3D Printers:
SLS printers operate similarly to powder based printers. They use a special powder which is in fact a form of plastic, typically based on nylon. A laser will strike the areas of the layer which are to become solid. The remaining powder stays loose. This laser-based system allows for incredibly accurate parts and fine details. The parts are very strong and flexible, and have high heat resistance.
These printers are extremely expensive, with only a few suppliers in all of Australia. Since powder can only be partially recycled, jobs are pooled together in order to fill the print bed. The method therefore lends itself to centralised manufacturing. Our largest international suppliers, such as Shapeways and I.Materialise, rely heavily on this service.
More Information:
If you want to learn how to prepare a file for 3d printing, see File Preparation.
To learn more about the capabilities of our in-house FDM machines, see our Machine Specifications.
If you have a clear idea of what you want created, but no digital model, see Design Services.
For all quotes and queries please Contact Us.