How Does 3D Printing Work?
3D printing is a process that uses specialised equipment to create solid, three-dimensional objects and parts from a digital file. It was first introduced as a practice in the 1980s when Charles W. Hull, who invented it and created the very first 3D printed part. Many sectors will search “printing services near me” but know very little about how 3D printing actually works. This guide will explain in detail how this valuable process is carried out.
What is 3D Printing?
3D printing uses computer-aided design to create 3D objects through a method of layering. Often referred to as additive manufacturing, 3D printing involves layering materials such as plastics, resins or biomaterials to create objects that range in size, shape and colour.
How Do 3D Printers Work?
Part of the additive manufacturing family, 3D printing uses similar methods to traditional inkjet printers but for 3D objects. Additive Manufacturing is the process of creating objects in layers, continuously adding layers until the final design is complete.
This process takes a combination of software, powder-like materials and precision tools in order to create three dimensional objects from scratch.
3D Printing Software
For any 3D printing process, the first step will involve 3D modelling. In order to maximise precision and to help computers understand what to print, objects are designed within a 3D modelling software. Some designs are often too intricate and complex for traditional manufacturing methods. For this reason CAD software is often implemented.
Modelling allows printers to customise products down to the tiniest details. The 3D modelling software’s capability for precision designs is why it has been celebrated in revolutionising production within many industries.
The 3D Printing Process
After both the modelling and slicing of a 3D object is finished the 3D printer can then begin its work. Working essentially the same as a traditional inkjet printer in the direct 3D printing process, a nozzle moves back and forth whilst dispensing a wax or plastic-like polymer layer-by-layer. Then after drying each layer, many 2D prints are added on top of one another in order to create a 3D object.
Summary
We hope this guide shed some light on how the 3D printing process works. With the use of the 3D printing software and printer, this process demonstrates how easy it is for 3D printing to rapidly create detailed 3D prototypes. 3D printing has many benefits for sectors looking for rapid prototyping and part production, especially for smaller sized businesses looking to do so whilst maintaining their return on investment.
Contact Us - Printing Services Near Me
Before searching printing services near me on Google, see what RAD Additive can provide you. With both experience and expertise in 3D printing and technical designs, we are passionate about turning ideas into a reality. So if you need to solve a problem or help to bring a new idea to life, get in touch with our Surrey and Berkshire border based team of 3D printing specialists today and we’ll identify how 3D printing can help. We look forward to hearing from you!