3D printers

What are 3D printers?

3D printers are machines that can produce 3D objects completely autonomously using various materials. Many solid but also liquid materials are suitable. Plastics, ceramics or metals are often used. In industry, 3D printers are used to quickly produce spare parts, manufacture prototypes or produce other individual parts.

What different 3D printing processes are there?

There are many different 3D printing processes. The best-known processes are fused deposition (FDM), stereolithography (SLA) and selective laser sintering (SLS). All three have their advantages and disadvantages and are therefore suitable for different areas of application.

The fused deposition modeling (FDM) process

In this process, the filament, the printing material, is melted and applied layer by layer. The process is very simple and therefore cheaper than other methods. The material is also usually cheaper. However, this process has a lower resolution and accuracy in comparison. Due to these properties, an FDM 3D printer is ideal for creating simple prototypes and initial proof-of-concept models as well as for large-volume components.

The stereolithography (SLA) process

The SLA process uses a laser that hardens photopolymers to gradually create an object. This process enables the use of many different materials. This makes the process ideal for many different requirements. With SLA 3D printing, you can achieve the highest resolution and accuracy. Fine details can be printed without any problems. An SLA 3D printer is therefore ideal for functional prototypes, specific patterns, molds and fine tools.

The Selective Laser Sintering (SLS) process

The SLS 3D printing process also relies on lasers. Here, however, no liquid mass is hardened, but polymer powder is melted. This is done layer by layer. As the layers are very fine, this process takes a little longer in comparison. However, there are some advantages. For example, no support structures are required and the resolution is very precise. This saves material and makes post-processing easier. As a result, the costs are also lower. Furthermore, several parts can be produced in one print, which enables cost-effective production and reduces the printing time per component. It is even possible to produce fully functional connected parts. SLS 3D printers are suitable for companies that want to produce customized products or require functional prototypes. With the excellent mechanical properties of the materials, ready-to-use finished parts can also be produced.