3D Printing – The Technology, Process and Machines Used​

3D printing has been around for a while now and it’s only getting more popular. But what are the benefits of 3D printing and how does it work?

3D printing, or additive manufacturing, is a process where material is added layer by layer until a 3D object is created. The technology started in the 1980s with machines that could print small plastic pieces and then evolved to include metal, concrete, food, jewelry and much more.

Today, there are many different types of 3D printers on the market that can all be used for different purposes. They range from high-end industrial printers that cost thousands of dollars to do-it-yourself (DIY) kits from companies like MakerBot that cost less than $2,000.

This article will teach you about the many different types of 3D printers available on the market today, as well as some of their most popular uses.

What is 3D printing?

3D printing is a process where material, typically a plastic filament, is added layer by layer until 3D object is created. The technology started in the 1980s with machines that could print small plastic pieces and then evolved to include metal, concrete, food, jewelry and much more.

Today, there are many different types of 3D printers on the market that can be used for different purposes. They range from high-end industrial printers that cost thousands of dollars to do-it-yourself (DIY) kits from companies like MakerBot that cost less than $2,000.

Benefits of 3D printing

In the last few years, 3D printing has become much more affordable and accessible to consumers. In the early 2000s, most people would use a 3D printer in a factory setting to create prototypes of products or parts that needed mass production. Now, 3D printers are available at a variety of price points for home use.

3D printing is usually faster than traditional manufacturing techniques such as injection molding or casting, which can take days or weeks to complete. And because not many materials are needed to print an object, it’s often cheaper and less wasteful too.

Popular applications for 3D printers

We’ve already mentioned a few applications for 3D printers. This list of some of the most popular uses for 3D printing is by no means exhaustive:

-Architectural models and prototypes

-Crafting toys, jewelry and other items

-Medical models and patient aids

-Working with organs, tissues or bones

-Creating art, sculptures and other decorative items