FAQ About 3D Printers
What is a 3D printer?
A 3D printer is a type of manufacturing machine that creates three-dimensional objects by layering materials on top of each other based on a digital 3D model. The process of 3D printing is also known as additive manufacturing because it adds material layer by layer to create the final object, as opposed to subtractive manufacturing, which removes material from a block to create the final shape.
The process of 3D printing starts with a digital 3D model of the object, which is created using computer-aided design (CAD) software or 3D scanning. The 3D model is then loaded into the 3D printer software, which slices the model into thin layers and sends the instructions to the printer.
The printer then creates the object by laying down thin layers of material, which are usually plastic filaments, powders, or resins. The layers are fused together or solidified using heat or UV light, depending on the type of material being used. The printer continues to add layers until the final object is complete.
3D printers can be used to create a wide range of objects, from toys and prototypes to complex mechanical parts and even human organs. The technology has many applications in various industries, such as aerospace, automotive, architecture, and medicine, among others. 3D printing has also become popular among hobbyists and makers, as it allows them to create unique and customized objects at home.