Manufacturing 101: Seven 3D Printing Processes for Different Applications

Manufacturing 101: Seven 3D Printing Processes for Different Applications

Every couple of months we feature a blog post from our friends at MAGNET (Manufacturing Advocacy & Growth Network). MAGNET’s mission is to support, educate and champion manufacturing in Ohio with the goal of transforming the region’s economy into a powerful, global player. You can visit MAGNET online at manufacturingsuccess.org.

As technology continues to evolve at a rapid pace, 3D printing has emerged as a game-changing manufacturing process. A common additive manufacturing process, 3D printing enables the creation of three-dimensional objects by building them layer by layer. Here we explore seven different types of 3D printing technologies and delve into their unique characteristics and applications.

Material Extrusion

Material Extrusion, also known fused deposition modeling (FDM), is one of the most widely used 3D printing technologies. In this process, a thermoplastic filament is fed through a heated nozzle. The nozzle melts the material, which is then extruded layer by layer to create the desired object. Material extrusion is known for its affordability, ease of use and compatibility with a wide range of thermoplastics. This 3D printing method is used for prototyping, product development and low-volume production.

Vat Polymerization

Vat Polymerization utilizes a liquid photopolymer resin that is selectively cured by a light source, typically an ultraviolet UV laser or a digital light processing (DLP) projector. The resin hardens layer by layer as the light source selectively exposes it to light. This technology produces highly detailed and precise parts with smooth surface finishes, making it ideal for applications in jewelry, dental and medical industries.

Powder Bed Fusion

Powder Bed Fusion comprises two main techniques: selective laser sintering (SLS) and selective laser melting (SLM). In SLS, a high-powered laser selectively sinters powdered material, usually polymers or metals, to fuse it into a solid structure. SLM, on the other hand, involves completely melting the powdered material to achieve a fully dense metal part. Powder Bed Fusion offers excellent geometric freedom, material versatility and is often used in industries such as aerospace, automotive and medical for manufacturing complex and high-strength components.

Material Jetting

Material Jetting, also known as inkjet printing, operates similarly to traditional 2D inkjet printers. Instead of ink, it uses a print head to jet liquid photopolymer materials onto the build platform. These materials are then cured using ultraviolet light. Material jetting enables the simultaneous printing of multiple materials, making it suitable for creating multi-color, multi-material and highly detailed models. Its applications range from product design and architectural modeling to medical and dental applications.

Binder Jetting

Binder jetting is a process that selectively deposits a liquid binding agent onto a powdered material bed. The binder connects the particles to form a solid structure. This technique allows for the production of parts in a range of materials, such as metals, ceramics and composites. Binder jetting is known for its speed and cost-effectiveness, making it suitable for both prototyping and low-volume production.

Directed Energy Deposition

Directed Energy Deposition (DED) involves the precise deposition of material, usually metal, through a nozzle or laser onto a substrate. DED can be used to build large-scale objects, repair existing parts or add features to an existing component. It offers the advantage of high deposition rates and the ability to use a wide range of materials, including metal alloys. DED is commonly used in aerospace, automotive, and marine industries.

Sheet Lamination

Sheet Lamination is a unique 3D printing process that involves bonding together layers of material, typically paper or metal foils, using adhesive or heat. The layers are then cut or shaped using a laser or blade. Sheet lamination offers cost-effective prototyping and is often used for creating full-color architectural models, packaging prototypes, and educational models.

The world of 3D printing offers endless possibilities, thanks to the ever-expanding list of technologies available. Understanding and harnessing the potential of these technologies allows us to embrace innovation and drive efficiency.

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