3D Printing

It is a process in which a digital model is turned into a tangible, solid, three-dimensional object, usually by laying down many successive, thin layers of additive materials

3D printing materials come in wide ranges, from polymers to metals, filaments to powders etc. However, most consumer 3D printed products are made from thermoplastics. The applications and use cases of 3D printing vary across industries, but broadly include tooling aids, visual and functional prototypes and test models and even end-use parts. 3D printing is used in industries such as Aerospace, Automobile, electronics and industrial applications. However in recent times 3D printing is used in medical devices and medical application.

FDM -Fused deposition modelling (FDM), also known as fused filament fabrication (FFF), and is the most widely used form of 3D printing at the consumer level, fuelled by the emergence of hobbyist 3D printers. This technique is well-suited for basic proof-of-concept models, as well as quick and low-cost prototyping of simple parts, such as parts that might typically be machined. The major advantage of FDM is its scalability and because of this cost to size benefit can be achieved by this type of 3D printing.

SLA - Stereolithography was the world’s first 3D printing technology, invented in the 1980s, and is still one of the most popular technologies for professionals. SLA parts have the highest resolution and accuracy, the clearest details, and the smoothest surface finish of all plastic 3D printing technologies. Resin 3D printing is a great option for highly detailed prototypes requiring tight tolerances and smooth surfaces, such as moulds, patterns, and functional parts. SLA parts can also be highly polished and/or painted after printing, resulting in client-ready parts with high-detailed finishes.

SLS - Selective laser sintering (SLS) 3D printing is trusted by engineers and manufacturers across different industries for its ability to produce strong, functional parts. Low cost per part, high productivity, and established materials make the technology ideal for a range of applications from rapid prototyping to small-batch, bridge, or custom manufacturing. As the unfused powder supports the part during printing, there’s no need for dedicated support structures. This makes SLS ideal for complex geometries, including interior features, undercuts, thin walls, and negative features. Nylon polyamides material is the most common material used in SLS

PolyJet - PolyJet is an industrial 3D printing process that builds multi-material prototypes with flexible features and complex parts with intricate geometries in as fast as 1 day. A range of hardness's (durometers) are available, which work well for components with elastomeric features like gaskets, seals, and housings.

MJF - MJF combines the process of binder jetting with the materials of SLS printing. This cutting-edge technology uses an inkjet head to apply a heat-absorbent ink across the powder bed surface in the areas that are to be sintered to create parts. This ink then absorbs the heat from an infrared lamp and series of heaters inside the printer to form 3D-printed parts.

DMLS (Metal 3D Printing) - DMLS printing work similarly to SLS printing, but instead of fusing polymer powders, they fuse metal powder particles together layer by layer using a laser. DMLS 3D printers can create strong, accurate, and complex metal products, making this process ideal for aerospace, automotive, and medical applications.