3D Printing

There is a great revolution in printing techniques. The creation of a 3D printed object is achieved using additive processes. In an additive process an object is created by laying down successive layers of material until the object is created. 

Working of 3D printing 

3D printing is a fundamentally different way of producing parts . In 3D printing, no special tools are required (for example, a cutting tool). Instead, the part is manufactured directly onto the built platform layer-by-layer 

Types of 3D Printers 

1. Desktop FDM (Fused Deposition Modeling) printers melt plastic filaments and lay it down onto the print platform through a nozzle 
2. Large industrial SLS (Selective Laser Sintering) machines use a laser to melt thin layers of metal or plastic powders. 

Applications 

3 D printing can be used to print Prosthetics and Implants, making them affordable by producing them in large quantities. In the automotive industry during development of a new product there is need of prototyping. 3 D printing can prove beneficial here. 

Steps Involved in 3D Printing 

There are various steps involved in 3 D printing. It starts with CAD (Computer Aided Design). It ends with Post processing Stuff where you must handle the 3 D printed product with care otherwise it can prove costly.