The Different Kinds of 3D Printers
3D printing has revolutionized the manufacturing industry and has made it possible for ordinary people to bring their ideas to life. With a variety of 3D printers available in the market, it can be overwhelming for beginners to make the right choice. This blog post will explore the different types of 3D printers and their unique features so you can make an informed decision.
1) Fused Deposition Modelling (FDM) 3D Printers:
The most common type of 3D printer is a Fused Deposition Modelling printer. FDM printers use a spool of filament that is fed into a heated extruder. The material is then melted and deposited layer by layer creating the desired object. FDM printers are affordable and easy to use, which makes them a great option for beginners.
2) Stereolithography (SLA) 3D Printers:
Stereolithography printers use a liquid resin that is cured using a UV laser to create the object. SLA printers are known for their high precision and smooth surface finish. SLA is commonly used for creating jewellery, dentistry products and prosthetics. However, the downside to SLA printers is that they are quite expensive, and the resin can be toxic to handle.
3) Digital Light Processing (DLP) 3D Printers:
Digital Light Processing printers are similar to SLA printers but use a projector to create objects out of resin. DLP printers are known for their speed and high accuracy, making them a popular choice for creating prototypes. However, the finish may not be as smooth as SLA printers, and the resin can be expensive.
4) Selective Laser Sintering (SLS) 3D Printers:
Selective Laser Sintering printers use a laser to fuse powdered material to create the object. SLS printers are known for creating strong and durable objects. They are commonly used in manufacturing industries to create parts for machinery. The downside to SLS printers is that they are quite expensive, and the materials used can be costly.
5) Material Jetting 3D Printers:
Material Jetting printers use tiny nozzles to spray droplets of material onto the build plate. The droplets are quickly hardened using UV light, creating the object layer by layer. Material Jetting printers are known for their high accuracy and ability to print with multiple materials at once. However, the downside is that Material Jetting printers are quite expensive and require a lot of maintenance.
With so many options available in the market, it is essential to know the different kinds of 3D printers and their features before making a purchase. The type of printer you should choose depends on your requirements, budget and purpose. FDM printers are perfect for beginners, while SLA and DLP printers are great for creating high-precision objects. SLS printers are ideal for creating strong and durable objects, while Material Jetting printers are suitable for creating objects with multiple materials. Take time to research and identify the right printer to bring your ideas to life.
For more information on 3D printers like Makerbot Method X printers, contact a company near you.