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Introduction to 3D Printing
Introduction to 3D Printing
Introduction
3D printing is a manufacturing process where successive layers of material are laid down on top of each other in an additive process. Although 3D printing is often spoken of as a new technology, it has actually been around for over 30 years. Around 8 years ago, patents around 3D printing began to expire and 3D printing opened up to mass audiences. The landmark point for its commercial adoption came from the open source RepRap project - a 3D printing initiative with the goal of creating low cost, self replicating 3D printers. Being open source, all the files were freely available online and in the following years we saw a large number of startups creating their own 3D printers, inspired by the RepRap project. Let’s take a look at the steps required in the typical 3D printing process:
3D model file
It all begins with a digital 3D model of a design. There are hundreds of software programs that enable you to design in 3D. Some free ones that are great for educators are SketchUp, TinkerCad and Fusion 360.
2. Slicing
The 3D model file (typically an STL file) is then split up into very fine layers in a software program called a “slicer”. The output from the slicer is a code, which tells the 3D printer how to move and where to lay down material.
3. 3D Printing
Once the code is loaded to the 3D printer, it will begin the production process. One layer is created at a time until the model is complete. This can take minutes or hours depending on the size of the model.
4. Post-processing
Depending on the type of 3D printer and the model file you print, there may be a requirement for some post-processing. Examples include removing support material, cleaning and sanding.
3D Printing Types
3D Printing Types
There are various types of 3D printers that work using different technologies and materials. However, all 3D printers have something in common - they all build up an object layer by layer. Let’s take a look at 4 popular 3D printing methods:
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1. FFF (Fused Filament Fabrication) /FDM (Fused Deposition Modeling )
This is the most popular type of 3D printer for educators and they work by melting plastic filament and depositing it onto a print bed, where it solidifies. Additional layers are printed on top of each other until the model is complete. Types of plastic include PLA, ABS and composites that combine plastic with wood, copper, bronze and several others.
2. SLA/DLP (Stereolithography/Digital Light Processing)
SLA/DLP machines utilize light sources (Laser or Ultraviolet) to cure (or harden) a liquid photopolymer. A print bed is submerged in resin and the light is used to solidify certain areas. Once a layer has solidified the print bed will move, allowing the light to cure the next layer.
3. SLS (Selective Laser Sintering)
Selective Laser Sintering works in a similar manner to SLA/DLP technologies but the light source (laser) is used to fuse powdered material together. The most common material for SLS printers is nylon.
4. Material Jetting
Material jetting uses a similar technology to a standard inkjet printer. The difference being that the material used is a liquid photopolymer that is cured by a UV light source once it hits the print bed.
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