A Simple Guide To 3D Printing Technology For Beginners

While the technology industry has made several strides over the years, 3D printing has been one of the most memorable. As a tech enthusiast, you have likely heard of 3D printing. You may have seen the innovation on the news or heard about how it is transforming a certain industry. While most tech enthusiasts know of the technology, many do not know much about what the printers do, why people use them or how to use it them themselves. If you want to expand your knowledge, read this guide to 3D printing for beginners.

What Is 3D Printing?

To begin expanding your knowledge on the subject, you need to understand the basics of 3D printing. 3D printing is a process that involves building an object layer by layer. Because this is an additive process, some professionals refer to 3D printing as “additive manufacturing”. These professionals use 3D printers to create solid objects in various shapes. They build these three-dimensional items out of digital files. Moreover, you can create a 3D object with less material than you would need if you were building it yourself. Once you understand what 3D printing is, you can move onto the rest of this guide for beginners.

Main Applications

Most tech enthusiasts are also interested in the main applications of 3D printing. Many are surprised to learn that a variety of industries use 3D printers to complete every day tasks. For instance, the medical industry uses 3D printing in multiple ways. Surgeons use the technology to make more informed decisions. They can use the printers to create three-dimensional models of their patients’ body parts that require surgery. Then, they can use the models that they produce to identify options and plan surgeries effectively. In addition to the medical field, aerospace businesses, fashion brands and architecture companies all have uses for 3D printers. Keep these applications in mind as you continue to learn about 3D printing for beginners.

Types Of 3D Printers

Furthermore, there are multiple types of 3D printers available for purchase. These types include cartesian and delta. Beginners typically have an easier time understanding caresian printers because they resemble traditional inkjet printers which are easier to understand. However, delta 3D printers produce objects at higher speeds. Unlike the cartesian printer, delta machines have circular print beds that do not move. Consider both of these types of 3D printers. Once you decide on the type you want to purchase, narrow down your options by looking for a seller with realistic prices. At MachineryNetwork.com, you can find used 3D printers for small scale or enterprise uses. As long as you choose the best type for you, you can use a 3D printer effectively even as a beginner.

Necessary Printing Materials

Another factor to understanding 3D printing is familiarizing yourself with the necessary printing materials. You need filament in order to print three-dimensional products. There are two types of filaments that you can use. The first is called Polylactic Acide, which is known as PLA. This type of filament is made from natural sources. They include sugar cane and corn starch. The second kind of filament is Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS). Unlike PLA filament, ABS filament is made using oils. Because of this, it creates stronger products. Purchase the 3D printing materials you need to produce your products successfully.

3D Printing Limitations

Finally, this guide would not be complete without a point about 3D printing limitations. After all, you need to know your restrictions in order to create products effectively. One of the biggest restrictions is size. Contrary to some tech enthusiasts’ beliefs, you can only print objects that are the same size or smaller than your 3D printer. Another impactful restriction that you need to be aware of involves materials. You can only print with one material at a time when using a typical 3D printer. Thus, they are not efficient for printing complex items. Consider these 3D printing limitations to fully understand the process.

One of the technology sector’s major accomplishments over the years has been 3D printing. Tech enthusiasts strive to learn how the technology works and how they can use it. To understand yourself, you need to first comprehend what exactly additive manufacturing is. Then, learn how major industries use the technology to improve their work. Familiarize yourself with the types of 3D printers so that you can purchase the best one for your needs. Consider the printing materials you need and keep the limitations in mind as well. Use this guide to 3D printing for beginners to start using this innovation.