Important Points to Keep in Mind When Going for Additive 3D Printing

Additive 3D printing is an incredibly reliable technique for the production of parts and tools. Processes such as stereo lithography, selective laser sintering, and fused deposition modeling, offer faster part delivery, reduce storage and inventory costs, and even encourage innovation through design freedom.

However, 3D printing requires a lot of practice and a fail-proof three-dimensional design. With that said, here are some essential elements to remember when you are using additive 3D printing techniques:

Different 3D printing technologies are limited to different sizes. For example, the maximum recommended part size for selective laser sintering (SLS) is 320x320x580mm; however, you can go up to 340x340x605 mm. Meanwhile, smaller stereo lithography (SLA) machines can only produce parts of up to 145x145x175mm, and their industrial counterparts can go up to 1500x750x500mm.

Fused deposition modeling (FDM) machines offer the largest sizes: 406x355x406mm. If you want to create parts any larger than this, you must section your design before fabrication and glue each piece afterward.

Resolution is the thickness of each layer of material added to a part during 3D printing. Generally, higher resolutions result in better quality surfaces and smoother faces.You can achieve this by using thinner layers to reduce imperfections. However, note that the higher your resolution, the longer a product will take to complete.

If you are aiming for the highest resolution, SLA technology is your best option, followed by SLS. On the other hand, FDM is relatively thicker, with layers going up to 0.25 mm.

Each 3D printing method uses different materials to create a prototype. Ultimately, your choice will depend on what type of product you want to manufacture. For example, SLA is your best option if you are looking for a prototype with similar properties to rubber.  This technology uses various resins with distinct characteristics, such as flexibility and cast ability.

Meanwhile, if you need a prototype that can withstand high temperatures, choose FDM—it uses materials such as ULTEM and polycarbonate. And finally, for objects without any particular use, SLS is your fastest and most affordable option.

Overall, your 3D printing design should be balanced in terms of size, resolution, orientation, wall thickness, and material. In addition, you can create high-quality additive 3D printing products with the help of an experienced manufacturing company.

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