What Is 3D Printing And Why Is It Useful?

What is 3D printing?

3D printing is a type of rapid prototyping technology, also known as additive manufacturing. It is a technology that uses adhesive materials such as powdered metal or plastic to construct objects through layer-by-layer printing based on digital model files. .

3D printing is usually achieved using digital technology material printers. It is often used to make models in the fields of mold manufacturing, industrial design and other fields, and is gradually used in the direct manufacturing of some products. There are already parts printed using this technology. The technology has applications in jewelry, footwear, industrial design, architecture, engineering and construction (AEC), automotive, aerospace, dental and medical industries, education, geographic information systems, civil engineering, firearms and other fields.

What are the benefits of 3D printing?

With 3D printing, designers can quickly turn concepts into 3D models or prototypes (also known as "rapid prototyping") and enable rapid design changes. It enables manufacturers to produce products on demand rather than in large batches, improving inventory management and reducing warehouse space. People in remote areas can make items that would otherwise be out of their reach.

From a practical perspective, 3D printing saves money and materials compared to subtractive techniques because very little raw material is wasted. It promises to change the nature of manufacturing, eventually allowing consumers to download files to print even complex 3D objects (including electronic devices) in their own homes.

Why are personalized 3D printing customization services becoming more and more popular?

In recent years, with the improvement of living standards, people have paid more and more attention to the creative elements contained in product design. 3D printing customization with personalized design has become more and more popular among consumers, and the market demand is also growing. Under this scenario, our handicraft factories have begun to move from traditional handmade clay carving to the printing industry, providing customers with 3D printing customization and proofing services.

Each production line in the traditional manufacturing industry requires a corresponding mold. However, 3D printing is based on a digital model and is not affected by the complexity, appearance, and structure of the product. It solves many production problems where the product design is too complex to quickly and accurately express the design intent. . In addition, in terms of cost control, 3D printing reduces costs by eliminating the production line. At the same time, digital printing can be used to mold the product in one go without removing leftover materials, which greatly improves the utilization rate of materials.

Although there are still many problems that need to be solved in 3D printing applications due to limitations in technology, equipment, materials, etc., with the continuous advancement of 3D printing technology and the continuous maturity of related fields, 3D printing will gradually become more popular in market-oriented production. , it will become more and more widely used in many fields such as medical models, mechanical parts, handicrafts, education and home makers.