For most people, a 3D printer must seem like something out of Star Trek.<\/p>\n
Who could have ever imagined technology like this a century ago? But now 3D printing is quickly becoming a part of our everyday lives.<\/p>\n
via GIPHY<\/p>\n
Just imagine:<\/p>\n
Within the next couple of years, we may have an entire generation of children growing up with a 3D printer in their homes.<\/p>\n
Much like the microwave oven and personal PC, this technology will forever change the way we live.<\/p>\n
A 3D printer is a machine that automates the process of building a three-dimensional object by adding material instead of taking away material (unlike processes such as machining or drilling).<\/p>\n
This process is also called additive manufacturing, and it first came about in the 1980s.<\/p>\n
Initially, 3D printing was used commercially as a rapid prototyping method in the automotive and aerospace industries. Charles Hull, who later co-founded 3D Systems, was issued a patent for a Stereolithography system (also called SLA for short).<\/p>\n
Here\u2019s a video of an SLA creating synthetic materials for blood-supply systems:<\/p>\n
During the early 1990s many industrial 3D printing companies sprang up, and all started using their own unique printing processes.<\/p>\n
However:<\/p>\n
Only three of the major 3D printing companies from the Industrial-use only era are still on the market today.<\/p>\n
The big three are EOS, Stratasys, 3D Systems.<\/strong><\/p>\n And get this:<\/p>\n It wasn\u2019t until 2009 that 3D printing became commercially available\u00a0to the general public thanks in part to the expiration Hull\u2019s patent.<\/p>\n To create a 3D object using a 3D printer, you would use an \u201cadditive process.\u201d<\/p>\n via GIPHY<\/p>\n During this process, a three-dimensional object is created by putting down successive layers of material until it is complete.<\/p>\n To put that more simply:<\/p>\n 3D printing is sort of like building a Lego castle from the bottom up.<\/p>\n Only with fewer choking hazards.<\/p>\n Now, this is crazy:<\/p>\n If you have a printer at home, you\u2019re technically already\u00a0using a 3D printer.<\/p>\n Wait, what?<\/p>\n If you print a page of text on your\u00a0home printer and look at the page through a microscope, you\u2019ll notice that the letters don\u2019t just stain the paper.<\/p>\n They\u2019re actually layered and sitting slightly on top of the page surface.<\/p>\n So in theory:<\/p>\n If you printed over that same page a few thousand times, you\u2019d create enough of a layered build-up of ink to form a solid 3D model of each letter.<\/p>\n This\u00a0theory is the same principle behind the process of a 3D printer.<\/p>\n via GIPHY<\/p>\n Think of it this way:<\/p>\n Imagine recording yourself slicing a loaf of bread.<\/p>\n If you play the video in reverse, it would like your slicing the bread together into a whole loaf.<\/p>\n That\u2019s more or less how a 3D printer works.<\/p>\n It creates thousands\u00a0of tiny slices from the bottom up that stick together in layers to form a solid object.<\/p>\n RepRap may sound like the title of Arnold Swartzenneger\u2019s long-lost debut hip-hop album, but I assure you it\u2019s something even more mindblowing.<\/p>\n Now I know what you\u2019re thinking:<\/p>\n How could that even be possible?<\/p>\n Well, in 2009, the open source project known as RepRap opened the door to affordable commercial desktop 3D printers.<\/strong><\/p>\n Then in the years following 2009, new companies started innovating, creating and making improvements to the consumer desktop 3D printer.<\/p>\n Today we enjoy the choice between quality affordable and pricey 3D printers thanks to RepRap.<\/p>\n Many 3D printing hobbyists and professionals also have RepRap to thank for solving many problems that once plagued the 3D printing community. RepRap is also a well-liked model of 3D printer that you can buy in either kit form or fully assembled.<\/p>\n Hundreds of retailers sell their own versions of a RepRap machine, as well as replacement parts and upgrades.<\/p>\n Backward gym shorts not included.<\/p>\n With a 3D printer, there are a dizzying number of things you can print.<\/p>\n Here are just a few examples of what people are making at home:<\/p>\n Here are just a few examples of how various industries uses 3D printing:<\/p>\n Truth be told:<\/p>\n We\u2019ve barely scratched the surface when it comes to the potential applications of 3D printing.<\/p>\n If you\u2019re looking to use your 3D printer to create items straight out of your imagination, here are some skills you\u2019ll need to develop first.<\/p>\n Before every project can get underway, there must first come the idea or concept of what you wish to create.<\/p>\n Remember that old computer programming saying, GIGO? It stands for Garbage In, Garbage Out. So your creativity<\/strong> matters.<\/p>\n One of the coolest things about 3D printing is that you can turn that idea into reality reasonably\u00a0much easier than before.<\/p>\n There\u2019s no longer any need to build something with your hands; your 3D printer can do all that.<\/p>\n The only thing you\u2019ll need to do is create a blueprint for the 3D printer to follow.<\/p>\n 3D printing allows you to think way outside of the box.<\/p>\n You can create objects that wouldn\u2019t be possible using traditional manufacturing.<\/p>\n You can create a basic 3D model using only the camera on your mobile phone.<\/p>\n In fact:<\/p>\n There\u2019s a growing subset of 3D printing features that allow designers to print 3D photos.<\/p>\n With your camera phone and a 3D printer, your imagination\u2019s the limit when it comes to the types of creations you can bring forth into the world.<\/p>\n Drawing is another excellent skill to develop for 3D printing.<\/p>\n Starting out, you may find yourself stuck during the creation process.<\/p>\n This dilemma separates the \u201cmakers\u201d from the \u201cnon-makers\u201d in the 3D printing world.<\/p>\n When it comes to design issues, literally drawing out your problem can often help you solve the problem.<\/p>\n Even better:<\/p>\n You don\u2019t have to be a talented artist to use this trick.<\/p>\n Just the act of drawing has the power to refresh your mind.<\/p>\n While programming and measurements are also useful skills, sketching activates a wholly different but equally important part of your brain.<\/p>\n Just by using some basic sketches, you could quickly start to see your ideas take shape and your design roadblocks crumble.<\/p>\n via GIPHY<\/p>\n The ability to use design software on your computer is a great practical skill to have when it comes to 3D printing.<\/p>\n With a 3D design modeling program, you can create awesome designs that can make printing a breeze.<\/p>\n You can even create objects with moving parts.<\/p>\n 5. Finally, the most overlooked skill for 3D printing<\/p>\n Networking is a commonly overlooked and undervalued skill in just about any profession or hobby.<\/p>\n Whenever you run into issues that you can\u2019t solve, having a vast network of fellow 3D printers is a great resource.<\/p>\n By joining a 3D printing community, such as RepRap, you can unlock your full potential by finding guidance, motivation, and great ideas.<\/p>\n Show off some of your creations and earn bragging rights among your peers.<\/p>\n After all, where\u2019s the fun in creating if you can\u2019t show off your creations to those who can really appreciate all the hard work you put into it?<\/p>\n Here are a few basic terms you\u2019ll need to know when you start using your 3D printer.<\/p>\n Source:\u00a0https:\/\/www.simplify3d.com\/support\/materials-guide\/<\/p>\n When it comes to 3D printers, there are a lot of different types from which to choose.<\/p>\n Here are a few of the most popular types of 3D printers.<\/p>\n Developed by 3D Systems\u2019 Charles Hull, SLA is the first 3D printing technology.<\/p>\n Unlike other forms of 3D printing, this technology uses an excess of liquid plastic that eventually hardens to form a solid object.<\/p>\n Parts using this method usually have smooth surfaces.<\/p>\n However, the quality depends upon the quality of the SLA printer.<\/p>\n After the plastic hardens, a part of the printer lowers down into the tank filled with liquid resin a fraction of a millimeter.<\/p>\n The laser then begins forming another layer until the printing completes.<\/p>\n After all the layers print, the object is then rinsed using a solvent and placed into an ultraviolet oven to complete the process.<\/p>\n FDM is currently the most popular 3D printing technology.<\/p>\n This technology is in more affordable 3D printers and even 3D pens (which are really cool).<\/p>\n Initially developed by Scot Crump from Stratasys, FDM is similar to a technology called Fused Filament Fabrication (FFF) developed by MakerBot.<\/p>\n With FDM you can print not only operational prototypes, but also ready-for-use products such as Legos, plastic gears, and more.<\/p>\n Another cool thing about this technology:<\/p>\n FDM can also use engineering-grade and high-performance thermoplastic used by mechanical engineers and manufacturers.<\/p>\n FDM constructs objects layer by layer from the bottom up by heating and then extruding thermoplastic filament.<\/p>\n The entire process is similar to a technique called stereolithography.<\/p>\n Special programs called slicers cut CAD models into layers and computes the way the printer\u2019s extruder needs to assemble each layer.<\/p>\n Objects can also be painted, plated, or even hammered after the process is complete.<\/p>\n Today, FDM technology is in use by industries such as automotive manufacturing, food production, and toy making.<\/p>\n The two most popular types of 3D printers that use FDM technology are Cartesian and Delta printers.<\/p>\n Much like the traditional laser and inkjet printers, Cartesian 3D printers are pretty straightforward.<\/p>\n They utilize the X, Y, and Z axis, using one or more stepper motors to drive each one.<\/p>\n They have a square or rectangular bed.<\/p>\n It\u2019s not uncommon for some models to have the entire bed move in one axis.<\/p>\n Like Cartesian, Delta also makes use of the X, Y, and Z-axis, with one crucial difference.<\/p>\n Delta machines suspend the extruder from three arms in a triangle position.<\/p>\n They will also usually have a circular print bed that does not move.<\/p>\n These machines are designed to print parts very quickly.<\/p>\n DLP is another older technology developed in 1987 by Larry Hornbeck of Texas.<\/p>\n The technology became well known for its use in the manufacturing of projectors.<\/p>\n DLP uses digital micromirrors laid out on a semiconductor chip. You can find this technology inside not only 3D printers but also film projectors and mobile phones.<\/p>\n DLP is also similar to SLA in that they both use photopolymers.<\/p>\n However:<\/p>\n The difference between DLP and SLA technology is that DLA requires an extra source of lighting.<\/p>\n Many 3D printing amateurs will use traditional sources of light like arch lamps for DLP printing. The Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) panel is another essential part of DLP.<\/p>\n The panel is applied across the entire surface of the 3D printed layer during a single run of the DLP process. As in SLA, liquid plastic resin is also the substance used in DLP printing.<\/p>\n The Resin hardens fast when exposed to a lot of photons.<\/p>\n In other words:<\/p>\n It reacts and solidifies when exposed to bright light.<\/p>\n Another difference between DLP and SLA is speed. Unlike the much slower processes used to print in SLA, a hardened layer of material can be made within seconds using DLP.<\/p>\n After the layer finishes, it\u2019s then transferred, and printing the next layer starts.<\/p>\n SLS is a technology powered by a laser to form 3D printed objects.<\/p>\n The technique was first developed during the late 1980s by Carl Deckard, a student of Texas University, and his professor Joe Beaman.<\/p>\n This technique is similar to SLA with one notable difference:<\/p>\n SLS uses powdered material in a vat instead of liquid resin in a cube.<\/strong><\/p>\n Also, unlike other additive\u00a0production processes like FDM and SLA, SLS doesn\u2019t have to use additional support structures as the object is being printed surrounded by unsintered powder.<\/p>\n Additionally, like other techniques, the SLS process begins with the creation of a CAD file which is then converted into a .stl format with special programs.<\/p>\n The material SLS uses for printing can range from nylon, glass, ceramics, to some metals such as silver, aluminum, and steel.<\/p>\n Due to the wide selection of materials, SLS is popular in the 3D printing of many customized goods.<\/p>\n In fact:<\/p>\n There are a lot of startup companies that use cheaper SLS printing machines.<\/p>\n You will most likely need 3D modeling software to help build your 3D prints. The software can serve many different purposes from modeling to sculpting to customizing your prints.<\/p>\n Some programs are great for beginners while others may require advanced skillsets and experience.<\/p>\n Here\u2019s a list of some of the top current 3D printing programs along with the corresponding skill set recommended for using them.<\/p>\n There are also dozens more similar programs like these, with costs ranging from free to several hundred dollars.<\/p>\n To find the right 3D printer, you first need to answer a few crucial questions. Answering these questions will help prevent buying the wrong type of 3D printer for your needs.<\/p>\n 3D printers can range from a few hundred dollars to tens of thousands of dollars.<\/p>\n via GIPHY<\/p>\n You can find a lot of great machines in the $400 to $1,000 range, but you will need to make some performance compromises.<\/p>\n The bigger the print, the bigger the printing bed you\u2019ll need.<\/p>\n Most people buy from\u00a06\u2033x6\u2033x6\u2033 and up, with eight inches (200 millimeters squared) being a popular size.<\/p>\n But you can also go much bigger with large capacity printers of varying quality.<\/p>\n \u201c3D printing is in the movies you watch.\u201d ~i.materialise.com<\/em><\/p>\n Is this your first 3D printer?<\/p>\n Have you ever used 3D printers before?<\/p>\n Depend on your needs and personality, may want to find a machine that suits your level of experience or patience.<\/p>\n For example:<\/p>\n If you\u2019re a do-it-yourself (DIY) type of person, then a more advanced model might be right up your alley.<\/p>\n However:<\/p>\n If you want a more user-friendly model, there are lots of appliance-like models that require much less knowledge to get started.<\/p>\n It\u2019s wise to pick a model based on the learning curve that you\u2019re most comfortable with.<\/p>\n The levels in the 3D printing world can get pretty deep.<\/p>\n Starting out, most people print using plant-based PLA which is a generic go-to material for most printers.<\/p>\n But you also have other options, here are just a few:<\/p>\n Depending on the materials you want to use, you may need particular parts on your machine such as a heated bed and heat resistant parts.<\/p>\n The most common sizes of filaments available are 1.75 and three millimeters.<\/p>\n There can be several advantages and disadvantages associated with each size.<\/p>\n For example:<\/p>\n Three-millimeter filaments are more resistant to bending, making it tenser while winding.<\/p>\n This allows manufacturers to get coils with near-perfect alignment without overlaps.<\/p>\n On the other hand:<\/p>\n Machines with smaller nozzles will use 1.75-millimeter filaments with greater efficiency.<\/p>\n Knowing the purpose of our completed prints can help narrow down the type of printer and materials you\u2019ll need.<\/p>\n For example:<\/p>\n Do you need to print detailed figurines? Or less-detailed containers?<\/p>\n Some printers are great for large prints, but not so good at smaller, more detailed items.<\/p>\n This question borrows from the experience question.\u00a0Do you want a 3D printer that you can build and tinker with or one that works right out of the box?<\/p>\n It once again boils down to what type of personality you have and the purpose for which you plan to use the 3D printer.<\/p>\n But that\u2019s not all:<\/p>\n There is also the question of building, configuring, upgrading, and maintaining your 3D printer.<\/p>\n Do you want to do all these things yourself, or buy a prebuilt machine that requires little configuration and maintenance?<\/p>\n How important is it for you to have customer support via telephone, chat, or on-site? A lot of people purchase relatively small 3D printers from non-branded companies.<\/p>\n This usually means that their customer service track record can be spotty at best, and non-existent at worse.<\/p>\n That said:<\/p>\n If you require on-site support, this narrows your choices down considerably more.<\/p>\n Do you need to have an extended warranty? Once again, many 3D printer manufacturers are pretty shady operations.<\/p>\n Many manufacturers do not offer a warranty or provide a minimal warranty.<\/p>\n It\u2019s essential to research the company you buy from to find out what other customers have to say about their warranty and customer support.<\/p>\n Keep in mind:<\/p>\n Right now the 3D printer market is a bit like the earliest days of the internet.<\/p>\n It\u2019s a wild wild west marketplace with very little if any regulation, so it\u2019s up to you as a consumer to protect yourself.<\/p>\n Are you comfortable with the specific software, compatibility, or accessibility requirements? Do you use a Windows, Linux, or a MAC operating system?<\/p>\n The software available for your machine may depend on what type of OS your computer uses.<\/p>\n Also:<\/p>\n If you have specific physical constraints, you may not want printers that require a lot of bending to operate.<\/p>\n Not every printer has delivery options or payment methods convenient for all countries.<\/p>\n Printers are usually large and hefty machines.<\/p>\n So as you can imagine the cost of shipping these devices from countries such as Australia can be quite expensive.<\/p>\n The answer to this question is also an essential factor.<\/p>\n Are you getting a 3D printer for your kids, parents, or grandparents?<\/p>\n Is it for a designer or engineer?<\/p>\n The type of person or persons who will use the machine can help you decide what features you\u2019ll need.<\/p>\n For example:<\/p>\n A machine with a hotbed may not be appropriate for children.<\/p>\n There are also other considerations such as the environment.<\/p>\n Do you need a machine that can operate in clean environments such as a classroom or lab?<\/p>\n Or, perhaps a 3D printer that works well for dustier environments like a garage or workshop?<\/p>\n Getting the right machine for the right environment can reduce the risk of injury, mechanical failure, and accidents.<\/p>\n There are several things to consider before either purchasing a 3D printer or using a 3D printing service.<\/p>\n One of the main reasons to buy a 3D printer is to have fun and create.<\/p>\n When you buy a 3D printer, you have direct control over the quality and design of your prints. With a service, you\u2019re more or less at the mercy of another person or team to create what you envision.<\/p>\n The cost of a service can be higher or lower depending on your needs.<\/p>\n For example:<\/p>\n If you want to start a business creating 3D printed products, then using a service will likely be more expensive than learning how to make the product yourself.<\/p>\n On the other hand:<\/p>\n If there is a 3D item that you would like to have made in time for someone\u2019s birthday, then a service might be the fastest and least expensive avenue.<\/p>\n Here are a few simple steps to illustrate printing on an FDM 3D printer.<\/p>\n Keep in mind each model and printer type may have slightly or vastly different processes. Also, before you can print, you\u2019ll need to load the proper G-Code into your printer.<\/p>\n You can create your own G-Code or find tons of codes online and download them to use in your 3D printer.<\/p>\n Your printer should have instructions for doing this.<\/p>\n First, you\u2019ll need to unbox and assemble your 3D printer.<\/p>\n If your printer is pre-built, there may not be much to do. However, if you have a kit, then you\u2019ll need to follow the instructions to put it together.<\/p>\n Next, you\u2019re going to need to prepare your build plate for a print.<\/p>\n Here you have several options for ensuring that your print sticks to the bed.<\/p>\n You can use blue painters tape, polyimide tape, hair spray, glue sticks, or BuildTak sheets, just to name a few.<\/p>\n Now you\u2019ll need to heat up your new printer.<\/p>\n The temperature of the nozzle depends on the type of filament you use.<\/p>\n For example:<\/p>\n For PLA, set the nozzle temperature between 383 and 455-degrees Fahrenheit.<\/p>\n Be sure to check with your 3D printer\u2019s manufacturer for the correct temperature guidelines.<\/p>\n A heated bed should be set at more than 140-degrees Fahrenheit for PLA.<\/p>\n In this step, you will load or unload the filament.<\/p>\n Some printers give you the option of loading and unloading the filament in their controller menu.<\/p>\n Make sure that the extruder isn\u2019t already loaded with filament, if so then you\u2019ll need to remove it.<\/p>\n To load your filament, first push the release lever.<\/p>\n Next, push the new filament through the filament hole.<\/p>\n You should begin to see some flow come out of the nozzle.<\/p>\n Once you see some filament exit the nozzle, you\u2019ve finished loading the printer.<\/p>\n Next, you\u2019re going to need to level the bed.<\/p>\n If you\u2019re lucky enough to own a self-leveling printer, then select the control menu and let your 3D printer do all the work of leveling.<\/p>\n If you own a manual leveling printer, you\u2019ll need to ensure the bed lever adjusting screws are completely tight on all four corners.<\/p>\n Next, select \u201cHome the Z-Axis\u201d in your control menu and then select \u201cDisable Steppers.\u201d<\/p>\n After that, find a sheet of paper and fold it in half.<\/p>\n Move the nozzle to within one inch of each of the four corner positions.<\/p>\n You\u2019ll need to adjust the bed up by loosening the leveler knobs while shifting the folded paper between the nozzle and the bed until the nozzle just pinches the paper.<\/p>\n After leveling your bed, you should be ready for your first test print.<\/p>\n One major problem you will experience with your prints is warping (also called curling).<\/p>\n Most 3D printer warping issues typically occur when an object is cooling unevenly after printing.<\/p>\n Cooling causes contraction which causes stress along the object\u2019s lateral surfaces.<\/p>\n The quicker the cooling, the greater stress is placed on the object.<\/p>\n The stress is most significant at the points where corners meet on an object.<\/p>\n Here are some things that can help prevent warping<\/strong><\/p>\n Here are a few anti-warping best practices that you can employ.<\/p>\n Calibrate your nozzle height!<\/p>\n Proper calibration translates into consistent layer heights, which directly impacts the entire print.<\/p>\n It also ensures that the object correctly adheres to the bed.<\/p>\n Using the right build surface will help ensure that your part doesn\u2019t curl during printing.<\/p>\n It\u2019s also a good idea to keep your build surface clean to prevent bed adhesion issues further.<\/p>\n The tried and true principle of \u201cslow and steady wins the race\u201d holds especially true when it comes to 3D printing.<\/p>\n Printing slower is especially recommended for objects with sharp or jagged edges.<\/p>\n Slower print speeds can improve adherence on those sharp corners.<\/p>\n By reducing infill, you can relieve a lot of internal pressure and contraction of warping filament which places an unwanted strain on your object\u2019s perimeters.<\/p>\n The ambient temperature of the area where you are printing can also have adverse effects on your print.<\/p>\n Make sure to close ventilation, open windows, and doorways while printing.<\/p>\n Ambient air currents can wreak havoc on objects.<\/p>\n Using enclosures such as cardboard boxes and curtains around the printer can help improve air stability around your prints.<\/p>\n 3D printing raises a few serious legal questions.<\/p>\n One question concerns intellectual property rights.<\/p>\n For example:<\/p>\n Let\u2019s say you decide to 3D print an exact copy of some Ray Ban sunglasses that you saw at the store?<\/p>\n Or, perhaps you print a replica of someone else\u2019s artwork.<\/p>\n Under the law, these actions could land you in legal peril should the owner of the copyrighted object decide to pursue legal recourse.<\/strong><\/p>\n There are also questions as to whether or not a 3D digital file qualifies for protection under the current copyright law in the same way software does.<\/p>\n Then there\u2019s the issue of 3D printed\u00a0firearmsandammo.<\/p>\n Recently, there\u2019s been a hot debate over whether or not 3D printed firearms should be illegal.<\/p>\n The social, moral, and legal ramifications of working 3D printed firearms and ammunition are issues that the U.S. Supreme Court may have to decide\u00a0in the near future.<\/p>\n Ready to really feel like it\u2019s Star Trek?<\/p>\n There\u2019s also the recent story about a researcher from the University of Glasgow who created a \u201cChemputer,\u201d which could potentially allow people to start printing medicines.<\/p>\n This technology not only has the potential to create harmful legal drugs, but also illegal drugs as well.<\/p>\n While 3D printing technology is relatively safe, there are a few health and safety concerns that you need to be aware of.<\/p>\n via GIPHY<\/p>\n Obviously, eating that 3D printed plastic cheeseburger isn\u2019t a good idea. But there are also more practical health concerns, such as dinnerware and other 3D printed objects that come into contact with food.<\/p>\n One of the main problems is that most 3D printed objects (especially those printed on poor quality machines) are very porous.<\/p>\n This increases the likelihood of bacteria growth within these objects.<\/p>\n There\u2019s also the residue of the materials being used, which can still linger on the surface.<\/p>\n Some objects also suffer molecular damage when exposed to extreme temperatures, such as hot water from a dishwasher.<\/p>\n The 3D printing process can also release low amounts of chemical emissions and ultrafine particles into the air and onto surrounding surfaces.<\/p>\n As for its environmental impact, 3D printing is said to use between 50 and 100 times more electricity than other alternative manufacturing methods.<\/p>\n For example:<\/p>\n 3D printing uses up to 50 times more electricity than injection-molding techniques.<\/p>\n So, keep that in mind when it comes to your electricity bill.<\/p>\n However, there\u2019s one immediate concern that deserves your full attention:<\/p>\n 3D printers can be fire hazards.<\/p>\n It\u2019s important to follow a few necessary safety precautions such as:<\/p>\n There are a few emerging technologies that are already challenging the 3D printer.<\/p>\n Two examples are Rapid Liquid Printing and Thermoforming.<\/p>\n Rapid Liquid Printing is an experimental form of manufacturing developed by MIT in collaboration with Steelcase, a U.S. furniture maker.<\/p>\n The prototype device draws objects in a 3D space by ejecting a material compound from a computer-operated nozzle into a stabilizing gel.<\/p>\n This technique allows for the manufacturing of large-scale freeform objects, such as furniture, and is much faster than 3D printing.<\/p>\n Let me break that down:<\/p>\n Researchers managed to print one part in only 10 minutes that took 50 hours on a traditional 3D printer.<\/strong><\/p>\n While Rapid Liquid Printing is pretty cool, by far the most magic-like 3D printing alternative has to be Thermoforming.<\/p>\n Developed by Interactive Geometry Lab in\u00a0Z\u00fcrich, Switzerland, this technique seems to pop out of the pages of a Harry Potter novel. The process uses computational thermoforming to bring computer-generated models into existence within seconds.<\/p>\n In the process, a heat resistant material, such as gypsum or aluminum used to create a mold for the end-products desired shape.<\/p>\n Then they heat up a flat plastic sheet to near its melting point.<\/p>\n At that point, a vacuum pulls the sheet over the mold.<\/p>\n The plastic sheet instantly and permanently takes the shape of the mold.<\/p>\n Best of all:<\/p>\n The mold can be reused making it ideal for mass production.<\/p>\n 3D printers are already revolutionizing many manufacturing industries.<\/p>\n It looks like the future of this technology may continue that trend, perhaps breaking the mass production barrier that currently inhibits the technology.<\/p>\n However, the future also holds some concerns as the issue of 3D printed firearms, ammo, and possibly someday even drugs enter the conversation.<\/p>\n There is also the question of environmental, safety, and energy concerns inherent in the current technology and if those issues will ever be resolved.<\/p>\n Also, what will this technology ultimately mean for economies around the world that depend on manufacturing?<\/p>\n Is 3D printing the automation boogyman that will cost millions of jobs?<\/p>\n But let\u2019s not overlook some more inspiring outlooks, such as how 3D printing could change medicine as we know it with 3D printed tissue.<\/p>\n Right now this technology holds more questions than answers, but that\u2019s okay.<\/p>\n Exciting new possibilities should do that, and hopefully, these questions will give rise to brilliant minds who\u2019ll strive to meet their challenge.<\/p>\n We hope you\u2019ve found this information on 3D printers useful in your research and we wish you the best of luck in creating your vision.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" For most people, a 3D printer must seem like something out of Star Trek. Who could have ever imagined technology like this a century ago? But now 3D printing is<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[4],"tags":[],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/extensivelyreviewed.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/272"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/extensivelyreviewed.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/extensivelyreviewed.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/extensivelyreviewed.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/extensivelyreviewed.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=272"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/extensivelyreviewed.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/272\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":348,"href":"https:\/\/extensivelyreviewed.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/272\/revisions\/348"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/extensivelyreviewed.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=272"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/extensivelyreviewed.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=272"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/extensivelyreviewed.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=272"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}Fun Fact<\/strong><\/h2>\n
\u201c3D printing is now being used to make many conventional organs required for transplants, so there\u2019s less of a wait or a need for donors.\u201d ~Tonsoffacts.com<\/em><\/h3>\n
How a 3D printer works<\/h3>\n
Are You into RepRap?<\/h2>\n
Fun Fact<\/strong><\/h2>\n
\u201cHP is planning to produce 3D printers.\u201d ~Tonsoffacts.com<\/em><\/h3>\n
What You Can Make With a 3D Printer<\/h2>\n
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\n
5 Skills Needed for 3D Printing<\/h2>\n
1. GIGO applies here too<\/h3>\n
2. Love your camera?<\/h3>\n
Fun Fact<\/strong><\/h2>\n
\u201cNASA is planning on using lunar dust to print a base on the Moon.\u201d ~Tonsoffacts.com<\/em><\/h3>\n
3. How about that pencil?<\/h3>\n
4. And, then technology you need to know<\/h3>\n
Basic 3D Printer Terminology<\/h2>\n
\n
Materials Used In a 3D Printer<\/h2>\n
\n
\n Material<\/th>\n Strength<\/th>\n Stiffness<\/th>\n Durability<\/th>\n Price(per kg)<\/th>\n Heated Bed<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n \n ABS<\/td>\n 40 MPa<\/td>\n <\/td>\n <\/td>\n $ \u2013 $$<\/td>\n Required<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \n Flexible<\/td>\n 26-43 MPa<\/td>\n <\/td>\n <\/td>\n $$$<\/td>\n Optional<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \n PLA<\/td>\n 65 MPa<\/td>\n <\/td>\n <\/td>\n $ \u2013 $$<\/td>\n Optional<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \n HIPS<\/td>\n 32 MPa<\/td>\n <\/td>\n <\/td>\n $$<\/td>\n Required<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \n PETG<\/td>\n 53 MPa<\/td>\n <\/td>\n <\/td>\n $$ \u2013 $$$<\/td>\n Required<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \n Nylon<\/td>\n 40-85 MPa<\/td>\n <\/td>\n <\/td>\n $$ \u2013 $$$<\/td>\n Required<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \n Carbon Fiber Filled<\/td>\n 40-85 MPa<\/td>\n <\/td>\n <\/td>\n $$$$<\/td>\n Optional<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \n ASA<\/td>\n 55 MPa<\/td>\n <\/td>\n <\/td>\n $$$<\/td>\n Required<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \n Polycarbonate<\/td>\n 72 MPa<\/td>\n <\/td>\n <\/td>\n $$$$<\/td>\n Required<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \n Polypropylene<\/td>\n 32 MPa<\/td>\n <\/td>\n <\/td>\n $$$$<\/td>\n Required<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \n Metal Filled<\/td>\n 20-30 MPa<\/td>\n <\/td>\n <\/td>\n $$$$<\/td>\n Optional<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \n Wood Filled<\/td>\n 46 MPa<\/td>\n <\/td>\n <\/td>\n $$<\/td>\n Optional<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \n PVA<\/td>\n 78 MPa<\/td>\n <\/td>\n <\/td>\n $$$$<\/td>\n Required<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/table>\n Fun Fact<\/strong><\/h2>\n
\u201cYou can already print in titanium, ceramics, wood, etc!\u201d ~i.materialise.com<\/em><\/h3>\n
Types of 3D Printing Technology<\/h2>\n
Stereolithography (SLA)<\/h3>\n
All about Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM)<\/h3>\n
Cartesian<\/h4>\n
Delta<\/h4>\n
Fun Fact<\/strong><\/h2>\n
\u201cScientists already know how to print human organs, skin, bones and a lot of tissue.\u201d ~Tonsoffacts.com<\/em><\/h3>\n
What you need to know about Digital Light Processing (DLP)<\/h3>\n
Selective Laser Sintering (SLS)<\/h3>\n
3D Modeling Software<\/h2>\n
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How to Choose the Right 3D Printer<\/h2>\n
1. How money matters<\/h3>\n
2. How size matters<\/h3>\n
Fun Fact<\/strong><\/h2>\n
\u200b<\/em>3. Experience matters<\/h3>\n
4. And now, considering materials<\/h3>\n
\n
5. The pros and cons of filament size<\/h3>\n
6. The end game<\/h3>\n
7. To tinker or out of the box?<\/h3>\n
Fun Fact<\/strong><\/h2>\n
\u201cThe Nokia Lumia 820 housing was 3D printed and it took the Makerbot printer less than a day to finish it.\u201d~Tonsoffacts.com<\/em><\/h3>\n
8. Now, about those problems you will have<\/h3>\n
9. Remember, nothing lasts forever, so take this into consideration<\/h3>\n
10. What\u2019s your wheelhouse?<\/h3>\n
11. Why your country matters<\/h3>\n
12. Now, about users<\/h3>\n
Fun Fact<\/strong><\/h2>\n
\u201cThe RepRap Project is a 3D printing open source project that teaches you how to build a home with a 3D printer.\u201d ~Tonsoffacts.com<\/em><\/h3>\n
13. Ok, let\u2019s talk about environment<\/h3>\n
Buying a 3D Printer Versus Using a 3D Printing Service<\/h2>\n
Fun Fact<\/h2>\n
\u201cThe 3D printing market is expected to grow at 23% annually through 2020, reaching $8.4 billion dollars.\u201d ~Tonsoffacts.com<\/em><\/h3>\n
Simple Steps to 3D Printing on an FDM 3D Printer<\/h2>\n
Step 1<\/h3>\n
Step 2<\/h3>\n
Step 3<\/h3>\n
Step 4<\/h3>\n
Step 5<\/h3>\n
Step 6<\/h3>\n
It\u2019s not the Enterprise\u2026 nobody wants warp!<\/h2>\n
\n
Fun Fact<\/strong><\/h2>\n
\u201cIn Belgium, biomedical specialists implanted a 3D printed titanium jawbone into an 83-year-old woman.\u201d ~Tonsoffacts.com<\/em><\/h3>\n
Other anti-warping best practices<\/h3>\n
This should be done for all prints regardless of what material you use.<\/h4>\n
Use the correct build surface<\/h4>\n
Slow your roll, player<\/h4>\n
Reduce infill<\/h4>\n
Close that window!<\/h4>\n
Legal Considerations<\/h2>\n
Fun Fact<\/strong><\/h2>\n
\u201cNASA has made a 3D printed pizza to feed astronauts in outer space.\u201d ~Tonsoffacts.com<\/em><\/h3>\n
Health and Safety<\/h2>\n
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Alternatives to 3D printing<\/h2>\n
Rapid Liquid Printing<\/h3>\n
Thermoforming<\/h3>\n
The Future of 3D printing<\/h2>\n
Fun Fact<\/strong><\/h2>\n
\u201cThe 3Doodler Printing Pen is a pen that can be used to print 3D objects in the air.\u201d<\/em> ~Tonsoffacts.com<\/em><\/h3>\n