5.1: Types of 3D printer
- Page ID
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\(\newcommand{\avec}{\mathbf a}\) \(\newcommand{\bvec}{\mathbf b}\) \(\newcommand{\cvec}{\mathbf c}\) \(\newcommand{\dvec}{\mathbf d}\) \(\newcommand{\dtil}{\widetilde{\mathbf d}}\) \(\newcommand{\evec}{\mathbf e}\) \(\newcommand{\fvec}{\mathbf f}\) \(\newcommand{\nvec}{\mathbf n}\) \(\newcommand{\pvec}{\mathbf p}\) \(\newcommand{\qvec}{\mathbf q}\) \(\newcommand{\svec}{\mathbf s}\) \(\newcommand{\tvec}{\mathbf t}\) \(\newcommand{\uvec}{\mathbf u}\) \(\newcommand{\vvec}{\mathbf v}\) \(\newcommand{\wvec}{\mathbf w}\) \(\newcommand{\xvec}{\mathbf x}\) \(\newcommand{\yvec}{\mathbf y}\) \(\newcommand{\zvec}{\mathbf z}\) \(\newcommand{\rvec}{\mathbf r}\) \(\newcommand{\mvec}{\mathbf m}\) \(\newcommand{\zerovec}{\mathbf 0}\) \(\newcommand{\onevec}{\mathbf 1}\) \(\newcommand{\real}{\mathbb R}\) \(\newcommand{\twovec}[2]{\left[\begin{array}{r}#1 \\ #2 \end{array}\right]}\) \(\newcommand{\ctwovec}[2]{\left[\begin{array}{c}#1 \\ #2 \end{array}\right]}\) \(\newcommand{\threevec}[3]{\left[\begin{array}{r}#1 \\ #2 \\ #3 \end{array}\right]}\) \(\newcommand{\cthreevec}[3]{\left[\begin{array}{c}#1 \\ #2 \\ #3 \end{array}\right]}\) \(\newcommand{\fourvec}[4]{\left[\begin{array}{r}#1 \\ #2 \\ #3 \\ #4 \end{array}\right]}\) \(\newcommand{\cfourvec}[4]{\left[\begin{array}{c}#1 \\ #2 \\ #3 \\ #4 \end{array}\right]}\) \(\newcommand{\fivevec}[5]{\left[\begin{array}{r}#1 \\ #2 \\ #3 \\ #4 \\ #5 \\ \end{array}\right]}\) \(\newcommand{\cfivevec}[5]{\left[\begin{array}{c}#1 \\ #2 \\ #3 \\ #4 \\ #5 \\ \end{array}\right]}\) \(\newcommand{\mattwo}[4]{\left[\begin{array}{rr}#1 \amp #2 \\ #3 \amp #4 \\ \end{array}\right]}\) \(\newcommand{\laspan}[1]{\text{Span}\{#1\}}\) \(\newcommand{\bcal}{\cal B}\) \(\newcommand{\ccal}{\cal C}\) \(\newcommand{\scal}{\cal S}\) \(\newcommand{\wcal}{\cal W}\) \(\newcommand{\ecal}{\cal E}\) \(\newcommand{\coords}[2]{\left\{#1\right\}_{#2}}\) \(\newcommand{\gray}[1]{\color{gray}{#1}}\) \(\newcommand{\lgray}[1]{\color{lightgray}{#1}}\) \(\newcommand{\rank}{\operatorname{rank}}\) \(\newcommand{\row}{\text{Row}}\) \(\newcommand{\col}{\text{Col}}\) \(\renewcommand{\row}{\text{Row}}\) \(\newcommand{\nul}{\text{Nul}}\) \(\newcommand{\var}{\text{Var}}\) \(\newcommand{\corr}{\text{corr}}\) \(\newcommand{\len}[1]{\left|#1\right|}\) \(\newcommand{\bbar}{\overline{\bvec}}\) \(\newcommand{\bhat}{\widehat{\bvec}}\) \(\newcommand{\bperp}{\bvec^\perp}\) \(\newcommand{\xhat}{\widehat{\xvec}}\) \(\newcommand{\vhat}{\widehat{\vvec}}\) \(\newcommand{\uhat}{\widehat{\uvec}}\) \(\newcommand{\what}{\widehat{\wvec}}\) \(\newcommand{\Sighat}{\widehat{\Sigma}}\) \(\newcommand{\lt}{<}\) \(\newcommand{\gt}{>}\) \(\newcommand{\amp}{&}\) \(\definecolor{fillinmathshade}{gray}{0.9}\)What is 3D Printing?
3D printing is an additive manufacturing process that uses polymer plastics or resin to create complex 3D shapes. These shapes are created by layering material, controlled by a set of instructions in G-code format. G-code files are generated with programs called slicers, which translate the 3D model into commands for the printer. A slicer sets key parameters like nozzle temperature, bed temperature, and layer height. Once the G-code is generated, it can’t be modified in the slicer, but it can be adjusted in a text editor.
G-code is made up of hundreds of coded commands, each instructing the printer to perform a specific action. For example, the G28 command directs the printer to home all its axes, setting them to a starting position.
What is a Slicer?
A slicer is a software that prepares 3D models for printing by converting them into G-code instructions. Many slicers are developed by 3D printer manufacturers and come with preset profiles designed for their printers, but they often support other models as well. Popular slicers include Cura, PrusaSlicer, OrcaSlicer, and Bambu Studio.
warning: Although slicers often have profiles for different printers, using an incorrect profile or G-code “flavor” can damage the printer. This is because different printers use specific G-code versions, and incorrect settings may lead to issues like nozzle overheating or electronics failure.
Types of 3D Printers
There are two main types of 3D printers:
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FDM (Fused Deposition Modeling) Printers: These printers melt layers of material together to form 3d geometry
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SLA (Stereolithography) Printers: These printers use a UV screen to cure liquid resin, forming layers that are lifted from a resin vat onto a build plate.
Below is a more detailed look at each type.
FDM Printers
FDM printers are the most common type of 3D printer and come in a range of sizes, speeds, and configurations. They create objects by melting and depositing filament in layers, which are then fused together. However, due to this layer-by-layer process, FDM printers can struggle with angled surfaces and overhangs, often requiring additional support material that needs to be removed afterward.
Strengths:
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Varied material options, including flexible and durable plastics
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Low-cost operation
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Minimal post-processing required
Weaknesses:
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Lower resolution with visible layer lines
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Potential for low layer adhesion
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Supports required for certain geometries
Applications of FDM Printers
FDM printers have a range of applications. For instance, they’re used in aerospace for creating metal 3D-printed parts. The SpaceX Raptor 3 engine uses components that are FDM-printed from durable materials capable of withstanding high temperatures and multiple use cycles (1).
SLA Printers
SLA printers are known for their high resolution and ability to produce smooth, intricate parts. They use a UV screen to cure layers of resin, which are then lifted by a build plate. The layers can be extremely thin, achieving nearly seamless walls and clean overhangs. This precision makes SLA printers popular for applications requiring high detail, like figurines and dental models.
Despite their advantages, SLA printers use a limited selection of resins, which are often toxic and must be handled carefully. Additionally, parts printed with standard SLA resins can become brittle when exposed to sunlight.
Strengths:
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High resolution, capable of capturing fine details
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Handles overhangs and angled surfaces well
Weaknesses:
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Requires extensive post-processing, such as washing and curing
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Resins can be hazardous and difficult to dispose of
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Printed parts can degrade in sunlight due to UV sensitivity
Applications of SLA Printers
One key application of SLA printing is in dentistry, where it’s used to create custom-fit dentures. SLA printers produce smooth, precise parts with no gaps between layers, reducing bacterial buildup and making them safe for use (2).
These dental-grade resins are biocompatible and not the same as standard resins, which are not safe for wear in the human mouth.
References
(1) P, M. SpaceX Optimizes Raptor 3 Engine With the Help of DfAM and 3D Printing. 3Dnatives. https://www.3dnatives.com/en/spacex-...ing-120820244/ (accessed 2024-10-16).
(2) 3D Printed Dentures | Affordable Dentures & Implants. Affordabledentures.com. https://www.affordabledentures.com/o...it-3d-dentures (accessed 2024-11-04).