Back to: 3D PRINTING: From Ideas to Objects!
3D printing is like having different recipes for creating objects, with each method using its own unique process. Let’s explore the most common types of 3D printing and how they work, explained in a simple way:
1. Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM)
- What it is: The most popular and affordable method for beginners and hobbyists.
- How it works:
- Think of FDM as a hot glue gun controlled by a computer.
- A plastic string (called filament) is fed into the printer. The printer heats it until it melts.
- The melted plastic is squeezed out through a nozzle that moves around, creating one layer at a time.
- Best for: Making simple, strong objects like toys, prototypes, or household items.
Photo credit: 3ding.in
2. Stereolithography (SLA)
- What it is: A method that uses liquid resin and lasers to create objects.
- How it works:
- Imagine a pool of liquid that turns solid when hit by light.
- A laser shines onto the resin, hardening it in the shape of the object’s layers.
- The object slowly rises out of the liquid, looking like it’s being pulled out of a magic potion!
- Best for: Creating super-detailed, smooth objects like jewelry, dental molds, or tiny models.
Photo credit: formlabs.com
3. Selective Laser Sintering (SLS)
- What it is: A method that uses powdered material, like plastic or metal, instead of liquid or filament.
- How it works:
- The printer spreads a thin layer of powder. A laser heats up and fuses the powder where the design tells it to.
- This process repeats until the object is complete, buried inside the unused powder.
- Best for: Making strong, complex parts, especially for industries like aerospace or car manufacturing.
Photo credit: formlabs.com
4. Digital Light Processing (DLP)
- What it is: Similar to SLA, but instead of a laser, it uses a projector to cure the resin.
- How it works:
- The projector flashes an entire layer of the design at once onto the resin, making it solid in that shape.
- The layers build up quickly, making it faster than SLA.
- Best for: Creating high-detail items like figurines, dental molds, or intricate prototypes.
Photo credit: 3dprintingindustry.com
5. Binder Jetting
- What it is: A unique process that uses a powder and a special glue (called a binder) to create objects.
- How it works:
- The printer spreads a thin layer of powder. Then, it sprays a liquid binder onto specific parts to glue them together.
- This process repeats layer by layer until the object is complete.
- Afterward, the object may need extra steps like heating to make it stronger.
- Best for: Making large items, colorful prototypes, or strong metal parts.
Photo credit: 3dprint.com
Other 3D Printing Methods
6. Multi Jet Fusion (MJF): Similar to SLS but faster. Instead of a laser, it uses inkjet-like nozzles to apply a bonding agent on the powder. Great for detailed and durable parts.
7. Electron Beam Melting (EBM): Uses an electron beam instead of a laser to melt metal powder. Often used in medical and aerospace industries for creating strong metal parts.
8. Laminated Object Manufacturing (LOM): Layers of material (like paper or plastic) are glued together and cut into shape. This is less common but useful for quick, inexpensive models.
Each type has its own strengths and is suited for different needs. If you’re starting out, FDM is the easiest and most affordable and that is what we will use throughout this course.