With the recent advancements in technology, 3D printing is fast becoming popular. According to a new report it is estimated that the 3D printing market is predicted to double in size every three years with the annual growth forecast by analysts generally estimated between 18.2 percentage between 18.2% and 27.2 percent. It also says that SMEs are the power-users of online 3D printing services, representing over 75% of the total customers.
This implies that 3D printing does not have to be only available to those who have expensive equipment or wealthy people. It is becoming increasingly accessible, and more and small companies are benefiting from it. A metal 3d printer is likely to become a common household appliance just like the microwave or refrigerator.
However, it isn’t an all-in-one device. Therefore, regardless of whether you’re an amateur or a veteran 3DIY-er, buying the right 3D printer may seem like an intimidating job. Here are six essential factors that you should be aware of when choosing a 3D printer.
Select the correct printing technology
Different printing methods can be employed by various 3d printer under 100. Here are some of the most popular printing methods using polymers with strengths and weaknesses.
Fused Deposition Modeling
FDM is the most well-known and simplest printing technique. Fused Filament Fabrication is (FFF), or Plastic Jet Printing is (PJP). This method is where a printer prints objects using successive layers. The printer extrudes a continuous length (such as ABS or PLA filament) through heated nozzles. The printing process begins from the bottom and progresses upwards.
Stereolithography (SLA)
SLA utilizes a particular plastic liquid printing material known as photopolymer. Typically an ultraviolet laser creates layer upon layer of printing material to create the component. SLA-based 3D models feature incredibly high resolution. It’s also more efficient than FDM and SLS. It is a preferred option for designers and model builders. It’s a costly procedure that requires further post-processing steps, such as washing and curing.
Selective Laser Sintering (SLS)
SLS uses the laser to melt or fuse powdered materials such as polystyrene, silicates and even steel to create an object. It can produce high details while printing. This is why it is an excellent choice for industrial design applications. However, it is the most expensive among these printing methods.
Find the material that is compatible
A filament is a 3D printing material that looks like a long cable, that is used in extrusion-based 3d modeling software processes, the most widely used technology in desktop computers that are less expensive. There are many types of printing materials available.
ABS (Acrylonitrile butadiene Styrene) as well as PLA (Polylactic Acid), are the most well-known filaments. Both materials can be heated and cooled repeatedly to create the desired 3D form, because they’re thermoplastics.
ABS
ABS It is made from fossil fuels and is extremely strong at extreme temperatures, is durable robust, durable, and sturdy. It is utilized in the production of mass-produced 3D parts and for finishing. It has a strong smell, reminiscent of burning plastic. It’s also not biodegradable.
PLA
PLA is made using renewable resources such as sugarcane and corn. PLA is also biodegradable. PLA is a material that can be used to create objects with sharp edges as well as thin layers. You can choose from a variety of colors. It is preferred over ABS by many hobbyists as well as people. But, it is also recognized to be prone to clogging as it can be stringy, and is not the strongest material on the market. ABS and PLA are both available. ABS as well as PLA are typically available as filaments, or spools that measure 1.75mm or 3mm.
Others
There are other options including Nylon Resin, Nylon, Wood (a blend of wood that has been recycled and a binding polymer), HIPS (High Impact Polystyrene), PVA (Polyvinyl Alcohol), Carbon Fiber, ASA (Acrylic Styrene Acrylonitrile), and many more, including metals. Metals, engineering grade plastics and other specialty materials require stronger equipment (e.g., 3D printers with high temperatures, nozzles with hardened edges).
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