3D printing, a type of additive manufacturing (AM) technology, uses computer-aided design (CAD) models to generate three-dimensional parts. They layer various materials to form a physical part. Today, 3D printing helps accelerate innovation and is accessible to businesses in different industries. Here are the three most widely-used types of 3D printers and their applications.
Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM)
Fused deposition modeling (FDM) is the most common type of 3D printing on a consumer level. FDM 3D printers use a heated nozzle to extrude thermoplastic filaments like Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS) and Polylactic Acid (PLA)., They melt the material and deposit it in layers to a build platform. FDM 3D printers do not have the best accuracy or resolution, so are typically used for basic proof-of-concept models and simple prototyping.
Stereolithography (SLA)
Stereolithography is another popular 3D printing technology used by professionals. During photopolymerization, hardened plastic is cured from liquid resin using a laser. SLA resin 3D printers are known for their capacity to create isotropic, watertight, and high-accuracy parts and advanced prototypes. SLA resin formulations have optical, thermal, and mechanical properties comparable to those of industrial, engineering, and standard thermoplastics. Due to its ability to create highly detailed prototypes like molds and functional parts, resin 3D printing is used in product design and engineering, jewelry, and dentistry.
Selective Laser Sintering (SLS)
Selective laser sintering (SLS) 3D printers employ a high-power laser to sinter tiny polymer powder particles into a solid structure. The unfused powder serves as a support framework and, eliminates the need for separate support structures. SLS is suited for complicated geometries, such as interior and negative features, thin walls, and undercuts. Parts produced with SLS printing possess top-notch mechanical properties, with strength equivalent to injection-molded parts. SLS is popular among engineers who make functional prototypes;, custom, bridge or short-run manufacturing;, and end-use parts.
Engineering and Product Design
Engineers and product designers utilize 3D printing with rapid prototyping to transform ideas into realistic proofs of concept. Users can also advanced to high-fidelity prototypes that operate and look like final products. These products may undergo manufacturing validation and be mass-produced. Be it a kaleidoscopic clock or 3D-printed clothing, any idea can become tangible with 3D printing.
Jewelry
Jewelry designers use CAD and 3D printing to prototype designs, get clients fitted, and mass-produce large pieces for casting. Unlike the variability and tediousness of wax carving, digital tools enable the development of highly-detailed, consistent, customizable pieces.
Healthcare
Healthcare practitioners now utilize professional-grade desktop 3D printers to administer treatments or tailorequipment tailored to a patient’s needs. This has paved the way for high-impact medical applications while cutting down on time and costs. From medical devices to anatomical models for surgical planning and study, 3D printing has revolutionized the healthcare industry.
Kemperle Industries Operates Advanced 3D Printers
Kemperle Industries has achieved an extensive portfolio that spans over 40 years of experience., We specializes in a variety 3D printing technologies to bring our customers’ products into the mass market. We are passionate about pushing the limits and achieving success, no matter how complex the process.
If you’re looking to embark on a 3D printing project, feel free to contact us or call us at 718-557-9578.
