Why 3D Printing Has Become So Popular Over The Years
3D printing has been around for decades. However, 3D printing is now more affordable and accessible. SLA printing uses a UV laser to harden liquid resin. This allows for objects to be created with incredible detail and accuracy. As such, 3D printing has been a popular option for entrepreneurs.
A recent study shows that the market value for additive manufacturing equipment and 3D printing will increase. Over USD$2.7 Million in 2030—a considerable bump up of USD$2 million from 2020. This study shows how fast corporations and businesses are searching for ways to use 3D printing to their advantage.
Companies can quickly bring their products to market and consumers can get the products that they desire faster with 3D printing. Keep reading this blog if you’re intrigued by 3D printing and want to learn more about its appeal and growth.
What is 3D printing exactly?
Additive manufacturing3D printing is the process of creating 3D products using a computer. “Additive” refers to the manufacturing process in which an object is built by adding multiple layers of material between each other.
It’s possible to build extremely thin layers—as tiny as a few microns—to construct elaborate patterns. You can use many different programs to create the digital file required for 3D printing. The digital file is then sent to the 3D printer. It reads the file and builds the product layer-by-layer.
These are the three most widely used 3D printing methods.
- Fused Deposition Modeling: FDM printing is one of the most common types of 3D printing because of its affordability and ease of usage. This is done by melting thermoplastic materials until the machine forms your product.
- Selective Laser Sintering, (SLS),: SLS uses a powerful laser to fuse small particles of material such as metal or plastic. Layer by layer, the final product is created. SLS can produce complex geometries. This technology is commonly used to make prototypes or functional parts in automotive, aerospace, and medical devices.
- Stereolithography SLA printing This involves the use a liquid resin which is then cured by a UV light to produce precise and detailed objects. SLA is a standard for creating jewelry, dental implants, or medical devices.
Although they aren’t the only 3D printing methods, these are the most common. You might consider other options, as another option may be more suitable for your company, employees, or product.
The benefits of 3D printing in your business
Numerous small and large companies have adopted 3D printing for designing, prototyping and manufacturing goods. Here are some benefits that have made 3D printing so prevalent in today’s business world:
Customization
3D printing has the benefit of personalization. 3D printing allows for item customization to suit each buyer’s individual preferences. 3D printing is essential in medical fields, as it allows for custom prosthetics to be made. This ensures maximum comfort for the patient. Customers will be more satisfied and loyal if they can customize their products.
Cost-effective
3D printing is more cost-effective than traditional production methods. When part of your process layers materials on top of each other, you dispose of minimal waste at the project’s end. 3D printing also eliminates the need to use tooling. Most industries that use 3D printing do so because the costs of 3D-printing prototypes aren’t too high.
Speed
The manufacturing process has been significantly accelerated by 3D printing in comparison to traditional methods. In the past, it took weeks or months to produce a final product. The process can be completed in hours now that a 3D printing machine is available. This has led to lower manufacturing costs and faster production times.
Design Improvement
3D printing provides greater design flexibility than traditional manufacturing techniques. Designers have the ability to create. Complex shapes and complex structures It would have been impossible to make these items with traditional manufacturing. Design is experiencing unprecedented creativity, and it’s uniqueness.
Sustainability
If you compare it to conventional production processes, you’ll see that 3D printing is a far more sustainable option. 3D printing uses the exact amount of material necessary to create the object. This results in less waste. Additionally, 3D printing can be made with recycled materials. This reduces waste and helps to protect the environment.
Accessibility
Manufacturing has become more accessible thanks to 3D printing. Now, small businesses and individuals can produce their products without large-scale manufacturing plants. This has opened up new creative and innovative opportunities for entrepreneurs.
Takeaway
3D printing offers many benefits that will make it more popular. Many industries have adopted adoption. 3D printing is a revolutionary way to think about manufacturing. As the technology develops, there will be more positive opportunities.
3D printing has revolutionized manufacturing. It is favored by both individuals and businesses due to its low cost, ease-of-use, and minimal environmental impact.
Bio of the author
Allie Walker works as a freelancer writer and has been writing articles and guest posts for more than a ten year. No matter the industry, she loves writing about trends. She knits in her spare time. She is also learning how to crochet.
(Devdiscourse’s reporters were not involved with the creation of this article. Devdiscourse’s views and facts are not represented in this article. Devdiscourse is not responsible for them.