3d Print
3D printing is a process by which a digital model is transformed into a tangible, solid, three-dimensional object, usually by laying down many successive, thin layers of a material. 3D printing has become popular so quickly because it has made part production accessible to more people than ever before. This is partly due to cost, but also due to the small size of the printers compared to traditional manufacturing.How does it work?
First, a virtual design of the object is made. This design will work like a blueprint for the 3D printer to read. The virtual design is done using computer-aided design (CAD) software, a type of software that can create precise drawings and technical illustrations. Virtual design can also be done using a 3D scanner, which creates a copy of an existing object by basically taking photographs of it from different angles.
Once the virtual model has been created, it must be prepared for printing. This is done by separating the model into many layers using a process called slicing. Slicing takes the model and divides it into hundreds or even thousands of thin, horizontal layers using specialised software.
Once the model has been sliced, the slices are ready to be loaded into the 3D printer. This is done by using a USB cable or Wi-Fi connection to move the sliced model from the computer where it is located to the 3D printer. Once the file is loaded into the 3D printer and printing is started, the printer reads each slice of the model and prints it layer by layer.
How are things printed?
The 3D printer will begin printing layers of material through a process known as material extrusion. Depending on the type of 3D printer and material used, there are various methods of material extrusion.
Most commonly, the 3D printer will have a nozzle that sprays a semi-liquid material such as molten plastic, metal or cement. The extrusion nozzle can move in both horizontal and vertical directions as it precisely places the material, following the blueprint of the digital model layer by layer. This process is repeated until the 3D printer replicates each layer in the digital model with the extruded material.
What sorts of things can be made with 3D printers?
Almost anything we can imagine can be turned into a 3D printable design. 3D printers help designers, engineers and even ordinary people to create complex objects in ways that previous manufacturing methods could not. 3D printers can be used to create toys, phone cases, tools, clothes, tables, lamps, pottery, works of art and even cars.
3D printed production is a rapidly developing sector with a very exciting potential for the future. It is possible to say that 3D printed objects can make our lives easier, more comfortable, safer and healthier. And 3D printing allows us to live in a world where we can 3D print all kinds of parts, from parts used in everyday life to those used in the industrial field or in the medical field, as people can find new designs to print as fast as possible.