What is SLS 3D Printing?

You have the option to choose from a wide range of consumer and industrial 3D printers. Every 3D printer produces three-dimensional objects by depositing filament layer by layer based on computer-aided design (CAD). But every 3D printer is driven by a different and specific additive manufacturing technology. 3D printers driven by selective laser sintering (SLS) technology produce various items using a high-power laser as the primary power source. They use laser light to sinter finely-powdered filament like nylon and polyamide.

According to Wikipedia, “Selective laser sintering (SLS) is an additive manufacturing (AM) technique that uses a laser as the power source to sinter powdered material (typically nylon or polyamide), aiming the laser automatically at points in space defined by a 3D model, binding the material together to create a solid structure.”

SLS 3D printing is often described as a modern additive manufacturing technology. But the 3D printing technology is currently used widely by manufacturers and 3D printing service providers for the purpose of low-volume production of components and rapid prototyping. That is why; you need to differential SLS 3D printing from other widely used 3D printing technology while comparing the 3D printers. It is also important to understand the important aspect of this additive manufacturing technology.

Understanding Important Aspects of SLS 3D Printing Technology

3D Printing Process

This 3D printing technology produces solid items based on the powder sintering principle. An SLS 3D printer consolidates small particles of the powdered filament using a high-powerful laser. The laser produces a mass by sintering the powdered material based on the CAD. The 3D printer preheats the filament to a temperature that is below the melting point.

The preheating makes it easier for the laser to form solid parts by increasing the temperature level. The item to the 3D-printed is supported by the unfused powder filament. Hence, SLS 3D printing eliminates the need for a support structure. After forming the solid structure, the build chamber is cooled down for several minutes.

The cooling process ensures that the item retains the desired mechanical properties along with eliminating the chances of warping. Finally, the item is removed from the build chamber for post-processing. The 3D engineers clean the excess powder before getting the item delivered. Also, they can recycle and use the unfused filament in the future without escalating the overall 3D printing cost.

Materials/Filaments

While using an SLS 3D printer, you have the option to choose from a wide range of powdered filaments – plastic, ceramic, glass, and metal. Hence, you need to choose the SLS 3D printing filament according to the nature and needs of the item to be 3D-printed. However, you must remember that the quality of the 3D-printed object will vary according to the key attributes of the particles – shape, size, density, porosity, and roughness.

Many engineers opt for various types of polymer while using this type of 3D printer to leverage their sintering properties or behavior. They can easily customize the 3D-printed item’s mechanical properties by choosing the appropriate form of polymer. Most engineers these days avoid metals while working with SLS 3D printing technology. Instead, they use selective laser melting (SLM) technology to 3D-printed objects using metal filaments.

Advantages

At present, SLS is one of the widely used industrial 3D printing technologies. As mentioned earlier, this 3D printing technology produces solid objects without requiring support structures. The engineers and manufacturers can choose appropriate filament to produce parts that resist chemicals. Also, they can customize the 3D-printed part’s strength, stiffness, and finishing by choosing from a slew of options.

SLS produces prototypes and functional parts much faster than other 3D printers. An engineer can use a single SLS 3D printer to produce parts with complex geometries and reliable mechanical properties. Also, he can use this 3D printing technology to deliver ready-to-use parts and components with varying functionality, durability, and strength.

Disadvantages

Like other 3D printing technologies, SLS also has several shortcomings or disadvantages. Often porous surfaces are cited as one of the major shortcomings of items produced using SLS 3D printers. The engineers have to perform elaborate post-processing to deliver a fully functional part that can be used for various purposes. However, the latest SLS 3D printers reduce both time and cost by overcoming some of these shortcomings. Also, engineers can easily leverage SLS 3D printing technology using the right type of SLS 3D printer.

Evolution

SLS is one of the 3D printing technologies that have been evolving consistently. The new-age SLS 3D printers feature advanced sintering machines like FORMIGA P 110. They decrease the low-volume 3D printing cost significantly by supporting larger build sizes. Also, they distribute temperature across the build area more efficiently. You must invest in a new-age SLS 3D printer to produce medium-sized prototypes and functional parts with complex geometries using various powdered filaments.

Applications/Use Cases

At present, SLS 3D printing is used widely by manufacturers to produce prototypes and functional parts with complex geometries and reliable mechanical properties. It enables engineers to produce and evaluate prototypes by reducing 3D printing time and cost. Also, the engineers can use SLS 3D printers to facilitate low-volume production of components and parts for clients from various industries – automotive, aerospace, medical, and military.

SLS is one of the advanced 3D printing technologies that leverage high-power lasers as the primary energy source. That is why; this category of 3D printers is used only in industrial and commercial setups. Individual users find it challenging to install and use SLS 3D printers for home use. But the popularity of SLS 3D printing technology has been increasing consistently across industries. However, the engineers have the option to choose from several types of SLS 3D printers according to the nature and requirements of the items to be 3D-printed.

SLS 3D printing is one of the modern additive manufacturing technologies. SLS 3D printers are used widely by manufacturers to create custom parts and perform rapid prototyping without increasing cost. But you must remember that SLS 3D printing technology, like other additive manufacturing technologies, has its own advantages and disadvantages.

References

https://formlabs.com/asia/blog/what-is-selective-laser-sintering/

https://www.materialise.com/en/manufacturing/3d-printing-technology/laser-sintering

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Selective_laser_sintering

https://www.3dsystems.com/resources/information-guides/selective-laser-sintering/sls

https://www.sinterit.com/what-is-sls-3d-printing/

https://www.axisproto.com/materials/sls/

https://www.sculpteo.com/en/materials/sls-material/

https://amfg.ai/2020/01/21/the-evolution-of-sls-new-technologies-materials-and-applications/

3D Printing at Home: 10 Reasons Why You Should Have a 3D Printer at Home

Like industrial 3D printers, desktop 3D printers produce a variety of three-dimensional objects by depositing filament layer by layer. But desktop 3D printers are popular among consumers and individual users due to their simplicity, usability, and low cost. Several market forecast reports suggest a consistent increase in the demand for low-cost desktop 3D printers.

According to Emergent Research, “The global desktop 3D printer market size was valued at USD 1,435.9 Million in 2019 and is forecasted to reach USD 5,129.0 Million by 2027 at a CAGR of 17.2%.”  The surge in the demand is being driven by a consistent increase in the number of people buying 3D printers for personal use or home use.

When you want 3D printing at home, you have the option to choose from a wide range of desktop 3D printers. Some of these 3D printers for home use are easier to use than others. At the same time, certain desktop 3D printer models are less expensive and more affordable than others. You have to consider several factors to choose the right 3D printer for home use. But you can leverage a slew of benefits by facilitating 3D printing at home.

9 Reasons Why You Should Facilitate 3D Printing at Home and Buy a 3D Printer for Home Use

1) Acquire Next-Generation Skills

Disruptive technologies like artificial intelligence (AI) will make res killing and ups killing essential in the near future. But you can acquire next-generation skills by using 3D printers efficiently and seamlessly. Once you purchase a 3D printer for home use, it will become easier for you to produce a wide variety of models, patterns, and designs by combining your creativity and inventiveness. Also, you can easily impress prospective employers by highlighting 3D printing skills in your resume.

2) Unleash Your Creativity and Imagination

A 3D printer can produce any three-dimensional object based on a digital file. You can combine your creativity and imagination to produce unique and outstanding digital models using CAD software. Some of these 3D-printed ideas will help you to solve specific problems, while others will enable you to produce personalized accessories and home decors. The procedure will help you to keep your mind relaxed and stress-free in the post-pandemic age.

3) Transform Your Child’s Learning Style

3D printing is one of the disruptive technologies that have the potential to transform and revamp the education sector in a few years. Many educational institutions already use 3D printers to modernize and supplement their curriculum by making students acquire both theoretical and practical knowledge. You can facilitate 3D printing at home to make your children acquire knowledge by performing tasks instead of reading books. Access to a 3D printer at home will help your child to retain and transfer knowledge, along with standing out from the crowd.

4) Produce Various Items on Your Own

You can use a 3D printer to produce a variety of three-dimensional items instead of buying them. In addition to reducing material consumption, 3D printers enable you to use recycled and eco-friendly filaments. Also, the new-age 3D printers run seamlessly with both traditional and renewable energy sources. In addition to producing various items for home use, you can impress your friends and coworkers by presenting unique and personalized 3D-printed gift items.

5) Improve Both Quality and Accuracy

As mentioned earlier, 3D printers produce three-dimensional objects based on digital models created using CAD software. You can use CAD software to evaluate the quality and accuracy of the items to be produced before starting the 3D printing process. Also, you can boost both quality and accuracy simply by making relevant changes to the digital model in a few seconds. Thus, you can 3D print various items that are durable and sustainable as well as meet your precise needs.

6) Modify and Customize an Item in the Desired Way

Often the ready-to-use consumer products available in the market do not match your requirements and preferences perfectly. You can facilitate 3D printing at home to modify and customize an item without any restrictions. You can improve the quality and functionality of a product by experimenting with different 3D printing filaments. Also, the 3D printer will make it easier for you to produce home decors and accessories that are both original and exotic.

7) Avoid Shipping Delays

The disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic made most sellers and suppliers delay shipment. You cannot operate specific devices or instruments without getting replacements or spare parts without any delay. During the COVID-19 pandemic, many professionals used 3D printers at home to produce replacement and spare parts in less than 24 hours. In addition to curtailing shipment time and cost, you can use a 3D printer to get replacements quickly and precisely.

8) Curtail Overall 3D Printing Cost

Professional 3D printing services enable you to obtain various consumer products and spare parts without investing in a 3D printer. But you can easily curtail overall 3D printing cost by purchasing the right 3D printer for home use. The 3D printer will enable you to reduce material cost and usage by experimenting with a wide range of filaments. Also, you can curtail costs by creating digital models using free and open-source software solutions.

9) Many Options to Monetize

The partial and complete lockdowns caused by the COVID-19 pandemic create opportunities for you to monetize 3D printing at home. You can earn revenue by using the 3D printer to produce a variety of three-dimensional items based on digital files. Also, you can complement your income by choosing from a variety of monetization options – conducting 3D printing classes, offering 3D printing services, and designing customized products.

While comparing 3D printers for home use, you must focus on shortlisting 3D printers that are both beginner-friendly and low-cost. Aurum3D makes it easier for you to facilitate 3D printing at home by developing a slew of low-cost and beginner-friendly 3D printers. In addition to being easy to use and maintain, the desktop 3D printers enable users to produce a variety of three-dimensional items without availing themselves of professional 3D printing services.

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Source: https://aurum3d.wordpress.com/2021/09/28/3d-printing-at-home-10-reasons-why-you-should-have-a-3d-printer-at-home/

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3D Printing Application in Medicine and Surgery

Enterprises from various sectors these days use 3D printing technologies regularly to obtain solid three-dimensional items from three-dimeansional digital models. The 3D printers produce a variety of objects and items by depositing thin layers of filament in succession. Based on the nature and requirements of a project, every user has the option to choose from a wide variety of 3D printers and 3D printer filaments.

Like other industries, the healthcare industry leverage 3D printing technologies to provide patients with a completely new form of treatment and care. Surgeons these days use 3D printers while planning surgeries, while the manufacturers leverage 3D printing while planning and producing surgical equipment.

According to Yale Medicine, “Some Yale Medicine surgeons now routinely use 3D printing (essentially producing a solid, three-dimensional object from a virtual digital model) to plan surgeries, design tools specific to an upcoming surgery and that particular patient’s anatomy, and even to print some of the parts used to replace defective ones in the body.”

The 3D printing application in medicine and surgery is multiple as well as diverse. The surgeons have been creating new use cases regularly by using 3D printing technologies in innovative ways. They even explore ways to leverage the benefits of additive manufacturing technology to improve surgeries and medical care. We can understand the 3D printing application in medicine and surgery based on some innovative use cases.

Use Cases That Depict 3D Printing Application in Medicine and Surgery

Preoperative Consultation

Before performing complex surgery, surgeons need to explain important aspects of the surgery to patients in a simpler and clearer way. The imaging data often requires the surgeon to put in extra time and effort to explain complex surgical procedures to patients. 3D printing helps surgeons to simplify preoperative consultation by producing patient education models based on 3D imaging data. The surgeons can further use the 3D-printed models to form strategies and choose techniques.

Surgical Planning

Many surgeons these days use 3D printers to produce models of organs physically from digital files. They use these 3D-printed organs to plan complex surgeries by identifying and addressing key challenges. At the same time, the 3D-printed organs help surgeons to teach medical students and residents how to plan and perform surgeries successfully. Some surgeons these days use sophisticated 3D printers to replicate organs during surgical planning in an affordable and cost-efficient way.

Personalized Implants

As commonly used medical devices, implants replace, support, or enhance a person’s mission/damaged biological structure. But a person’s biological structure can be replaced accurately and seamlessly only when the implant is personalized fully. One of the common applications of 3D printing in medicine and surgery is the creation of personalized implants. Many companies already use 3D printing technologies to create personalized implants for individual patients and complex cases.

Personalized and Precision Medicine

In addition to personalizing treatment and care, 3D printing technologies will soon facilitate precision medicine delivery. Many hospitals already use 3D printers to prepare personalized doses and delivery systems based on a patient’s age, lifestyle, body size, and sex. Precision medicine can be produced by a physician, nurse, or pharmacist who knows how to use a 3D printer. In addition to delivering highly personalized medicine to every patient, 3D printing will help hospitals to save both funds and resources.

Three-Dimensional Bioprinting

According to Science.org.au, “Bioprinting can produce living tissue, bone, blood vessels and, potentially, whole organs for use in medical procedures, training, and testing.” Both bioprinting and 3D printing are additive manufacturing processes. 3D printing technologies produce a variety of items using plastic-bases, resin-based, or powder-based filaments. On the other hand, bioprinting technologies produce organ-like structures using biomaterials and cells.

Many healthcare companies these days leverage professional 3D printing servicesto transform bioprinting. They adopt three-dimensional bioprinting to produce bone, living cells, and tissues using biomaterials as inks. The physicians and surgeons can leverage bioprinting to produce personalized tissues and cells for individual patients. The personalized tissues and cells enable physicians to deliver personalized and targeted treatment to every patient.

Innovative Medical Devices and Instruments

3D printing technologies enable engineers and manufacturers to experiment with many ideas without requiring extra resources or escalating costs. Many manufacturers these days combine 3D printers and 3D printing filaments to produce innovative medical devices and surgical instruments. They can further evaluate the pros and cons of every 3D-printed prototype before starting mass production. Also, 3D printing technologies enable manufacturers to produce innovative devices in low-volume and on-demand.

Futuristic Operating Rooms

Many hospitals and clinics have already started transforming and modernizing their operating rooms by integrating 3D printing technologies with next-generation technologies like artificial intelligence (AI), augmented reality (AR), and virtual reality (VR). The 5G technology will soon enable surgeons to perform remote surgeries. That is why; 3D printing will remain one of the key technologies that will shape the future of surgery by setting up futuristic operating rooms.

Research Knowledge Improvement

In addition to facilitating the development of futuristic and automated operating rooms, 3D printing technologies have been improving the professional skills and research knowledge of physicians and surgeons consistently. Many healthcare companies already invest in new-generation 3D printers to foster and drive research and development (R&D). The latest 3D printers help doctors to diagnose health problems, plan surgeries, and produce patient anatomy in a different way. Many experts believe that 3D printing will change the way physicians get medical education and training in the near future.

According to BusinessWire.com, “The 3D printing market in the healthcare industry is poised to grow by $2.53 billion during 2021-2025, progressing at a CAGR of almost 18% during the forecast period.” Many healthcare providers will leverage 3D printing benefits to enhance productivity and curtail costs. That is why; new use cases will be created regularly that will drive the 3D printing application in medicine and surgery.

Customized Moon Lamps - Innovative Gift Ideas for Your Loved Ones

The COVID-19 lockdowns and shutdowns made it difficult for people to visit gift shops. But people still impressed their loved ones by sending gifts on birthdays, wedding anniversaries, and other special occasions. 3D printers created opportunities for many enthusiasts to produce customized and personalized gift items without increasing the risk of coronavirus infections.

You can leverage 3D printing technologies to impress your near and dear people by gifting customized moon lamps on special occasions. You can make the 3D-printed moon lamp stand out from the crowd by using various customization ideas. Also, you can produce the customized moon lamps in a short amount of time using a 3D printer or availing of professional 3D printing services.

Why Customized Moon Lamps are the Perfect Gift Idea?

You have the option to customize the moon lamps with either image or text. You can easily make the gift recipient emotional by remembering many memories by printing the right image or picture on the surface of the moon lamp. Also, you can convey your feelings to the gift recipient by printing special messages on the moon lamp.

The personalization and customization will make the gift recipient remember you fondly each time she touches or uses the moon lamp. At the same time, she can use the rechargeable moon lamp for many hours simply by charging the battery fully. In addition to lighting and romanticizing the environment, the customized moon lamp will act as wonderful home décor.

How to 3D Print Customized Moon Lamps?

Producing 3D-printed customized moon lamps is a multistep process. You need to create a 3D model or digital file based on your gift idea. Also, you need to produce the three-dimensional moon lamp based on the digital file using the right 3D printing technology and filament. That is why; you can 3D-print customized moon lamps only by following 5 important steps.

1) Finalize the Customization Idea

You can customize a moon lamp in a number of ways. For instance, you can impress the gift recipient by customizing the moon lamp with an image that will refresh memories or rekindle the romance. At the same time, you can convey your feeling or emotions to the gift recipient by printing a brief message on the surface of the moon lamp.

2) Define Key Attributes of the Moon Lamp

Before customizing the moon lamp, you must focus on designing a plan moon lamp. It will become easier for you to customize the moon lamp once you define key attributes like size, shape, dimension, and color. However, it is always important to keep in mind the customization idea while defining these key attributes. For instance, you cannot customize the moon lamp with an image without increasing its size.

3) Compose/Edit the Digital File

3D printers produce consumer products or gift items based on digital files. You can create a digital file or 3D model using CAD or CAM software. If you are proficient in 3D designing, you can create the digital file in a few minutes. Also, you have the option to download digital files from specific websites and make changes to the digital file according to your customization idea.

4) Combine 3D Printer and Filament

The 3D printers will produce the customized moon lamp based on the code or 3D model. But you must combine the appropriate 3D printing technology and filament. While 3D-printing moon lamps, professional 3D printing service providers often use Polylactic Acid (PLA). PLA is a biodegradable 3D printing filament that is produced from renewable resources.

PLA is often considered a beginner-friendly 3D printing material. It is effective in resisting heat. Also, this thermoplastic does not require elaborate post-processing. After selecting 3D printing filament, you need to set to 3D printer to a good level. The 3D printer will produce the customized moon lamp in about 20 hours.

5) Assemble Various Components and Parts

Finally, you have to make the moon lampwork by setting up the circuit board and adding a charging line. You have to start the assembling process by integrating the circuit board with the light and the lithium battery. Also, you must test the circuit board several times to ensure that the light is working. Also, you must test the 3D-printed customized moon lamp in a number of ways to evaluate its performance and sustainability.

Often beginners find it challenging to 3D-print customized moon lamps on their own. They fail to produce a perfect moon lamp despite putting inadequate time and effort. You can always avail the assistance of a reputable 3D printing service provider like Aurum3D to get customized moon lamps effortlessly in a short amount of time.

Aurum3D allows you to buy both plain moon lamps and customized 3D printed moon lamps. You can obtain customized moon lamps by simply sending high-quality photos by email. You also have the option to customize the moon lamp specifying the appropriate size and color.

The seasoned 3D printing engineers at Aurum3D will produce and deliver the rechargeable and customized moon lamp with touch control home decorative. You can rely on Aurum3D to impress your loved ones by gifting personalized moon lamps without putting extra time and effort.

3D Printing Filaments Buying Guide

3D printing filaments or printing materials are thermoplastics that melt and do not burn after being exposed to heat. The flexible and durable nature of thermoplastics makes it easier for engineers to mold and shape them in a number of ways using the appropriate 3D printer. The 3D printers produce objects, models, prototypes, and patterns by depositing the melted filament layer by layer based on a digital file.

According to Wikipedia, “3D printing filament is the thermoplastic feedstock for fused deposition modeling 3D printers. There are many types of filament available with different properties, requiring different temperatures to print.”

3D printing a consumer product or industrial model, you have the option to choose from a wide range of 3D printing filaments. The 3D printing materials differ from each other in many aspects, including physical property. This 3D printing filaments buying guide will make it easier for you to differentiate between widely used 3D printing materials and choose the appropriate 3D printer filament for your project.

3D Printing Filaments Buying Guide: Types, Usage, Pros, and Cons

PLA Filament

Poly Lactic Acid (PLA) is an easy-to-use form of thermoplastic that is prepared from organic materials like sugarcane and cornstarch. In addition to being a safe filament, PLA helps you to produce items with a smooth appearance. PLA is used widely for 3D printing both consumer products and industrial parts. However, moisture often makes PLA brittle.

ABS Filament

Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) is a petroleum-based thermoplastic with superior strength and moderate flexibility. Its impact-resistant properties make ABS one of the popular 3D printing materials for producing a wide range of items – musical instruments, toys, automotive parts, and plastic objects. You can opt for ABS to 3D-print strong and durable objects in a cost-efficient way. But ABS melts at a higher temperature and creates unpleasant fumes during the 3D printing process.

PET Filament

PolyEthylene Terephthalate (PET) is a harmless and durable form of material that is used widely for producing plastic bottles. PET’s transparent and colorless form changes when it is exposed to heat or cold. Its strong and flexible nature makes PET one of the most preferred 3D printing materials to create cups, utensils, kitchen appliances, and food containers. You can opt for PET to 3D-print items that withstand water and moisture. PET is not one of the easy-to-use 3D printing filaments.

PETT Filament

PolyEthylene Trimethylene Terephthalate (PETT) is a food-safe but non-biodegradable 3D printing filament. The recyclable 3D printing material is used widely for producing food containers and kitchen appliances. In addition to being strong, durable, and safe, PETT does not absorb water or moisture from the environment. But beginners often find it difficult to 3D-print items using PETT.

Wood Filament

This 3D printing material is created by combining recycled wood and special-binding polymer. You can opt for the wood filament to produce items that look, feel, and smell like real wood. You can easily change the shade and surface of objects during the 3D printing process by increasing temperature. However, you must remember that wood filament is both softer and weaker than other 3D printing materials including PLA.

Metal Filament

You can opt for the metal filament to make the 3D-printed items look and feel like metal items. The metal filament is produced by combining the fine metallic powder with PLA filament. You can customize the metal filament by adding a variety of metallic powder – copper, brass, bronze, aluminum, and stainless steel. The items 3D-printed with metal filament are extremely durable. But beginners often find it difficult to 3D-print items using metal filament.

Nylon Filament

Nylon is one of the strong, durable, and flexible 3D printing filaments which is used widely for producing consumer products, containers, industrial tools, machine parts, and mechanical components. In addition to being 100% thermoplastic, nylon can be re-melted and recycled without putting in extra time and effort. But 3D-printed items must be stored properly and effectively as nylon absorbs moisture from the environment.

PVA Filament

Engineers often use polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) as a support material while using ABS or PLA as the primary 3D printing filament. PVA makes it easier for you to 3D print a variety of items as a durable, biodegradable, and non-toxic filament. However, PVA is much more expensive than other 3D printing filaments. Also, it is one of the difficult-to-source 3D printing materials.

3D Printing Filaments Buying Guide: Things to Consider or Parameters to Use

As noted earlier, the physical properties of 3D printing materials differ. In addition to differentiating between widely used 3D printer filaments, you must evaluate each 3D printing filament according to the precise needs of your project using a slew of parameters.

Usability/Printability

Some 3D printing filaments are easier to use than others. For instance, beginners find it easier to 3D-print items using PLA or PET-G. However, PLA is used widely by manufacturers to 3D-print prototypes and functional parts. Hence, you must compare the usability of widely used 3D printing materials according to your experience and expertise.

Complexity

Some 3D printing filaments are best suited for producing complex and complicated designs. Engineers often opt for mid-level 3D printing materials like PAHT CF15 or PPGF30 while 3D-printing complex designs. But these 3D printing filaments are not easy to print. That is why; you must keep in mind the complexity of the design while comparing 3D printing materials.

Environment

Unlike consumer products, industrial tools and prototypes are exposed to heat, chemicals, and stress regularly. Hence, you need to opt for an advanced filament like ABS or TPU to 3D-print prototypes that withstand heat and chemicals effectively on a regular basis. Likewise, you should consider a durable and reinforced 3D printing material like PAHT CF15 to build industrial tools with more resistance.

Flexibility and Durability

3D printing filaments differ from each other in the category of flexibility and durability. Engineers often opt for TPU as a mid-level 3D printer filament to produce items and instruments that last longer despite being bendable. Likewise, they make industrial and commercial objects more durable using carbon fiber materials.

Stress Resistance

Some 3D printing filaments are effective in resisting more stress than others. You can make the 3D-printing item withstand higher stress by opting for a filament that resists heat, chemicals, and the environment successfully. For instance, you can make the outdoor 3D printed items withstand various weather conditions by choosing PP. Likewise; you need to consider specific filaments to withstand heat or water.

You have the option to choose from a wide range of filaments while 3D-printing an object, model, prototype, or part. But you must remember that 3D printing filaments differ from each other in several aspects. You must refer to this 3D printing filaments buying guide to compare 3D printing materials using the appropriate parameters according to the precise needs of your project.

Keyword: 3D printing filaments buying guide

References

https://edutechwiki.unige.ch/en/3D_printer_filament

https://www.bcn3d.com/how-to-choose-3d-printing-material/

https://www.think3d.in/think3d-top10-3d-printer-filament-types-fdm/

https://www.thomasnet.com/articles/custom-manufacturing-fabricating/types-of-3d-printer-filament/

https://robu.in/3d-printer-filament-types/

https://www.lpfrg.com/guides/3d-printer-filament-types/

https://robu.in/3d-printer-filament-types/

Best 3D Printing Service Providers in India

You can produce a product or item using a wide range of 3D printers. Also, you have the option to choose from a variety of 3D printing filaments and materials. You can obtain a high-quality and high-precision item only by combining the right 3D printing technology with the right 3D printing filaments. 3D printing service providers in India make it easier for you to produce a variety of three-dimensional consumer or industrial products without investing in a 3D printer and buying 3D printing filament.

Most Indian 3D printing service providers allow you to choose from several 3D printing services according to the precise needs of your project. But you must remember that the quality of 3D printing services differs across providers. You can obtain a high-quality and high-precision item only by comparing the experience, expertise, and reputation of some of the best 3D printing service providers in India. We help you to compare some of the leading providers based on the quality of their 3D printing services.

Shortlisting and Comparing Some of the Best 3D Printing Service Providers in India

3D Print World

3D Print World allows you to choose from a variety of 3D printing services – 3D rapid prototype services, 3D mechanical CAD designing services, 3D mechanical CAD prototyping services, and CAD CAM designing services. The 3D printing services provided by this Mumbai-based company help you to convert various ideas and concepts into a digital file and obtain a three-dimensional item based on the digital file. You also have the option to customize the 3D printing services according to your precise needs by getting the assistance of experienced domain experts.

Aurum3D

In addition to a variety of 3D-printed items, Aurum3D offers 3D printing, 3D designing, and 3D scanning services. The Bangalore-based 3D printing service provider allows you to avail of FDM, SLA, and SLS 3D printing services. Hence, you can get the desired prototype or model by availing of the appropriate 3D printing services. The in-house team at Aurum3D has expertise in delivering customized 3D printing services to businesses from various industries – manufacturing, automotive, aerospace, healthcare, and education. Hence, you can trust Aurum3D to high-quality and high-precision 3D-printed items.

VOiLA 3D

VOiLA 3D offers a slew of 3D printing services, including FDM 3D printing services and SLA 3D printing services. Also, the Bangalore-based 3D printing company allows you to choose from a wide range of 3D printing materials – PLA, ABS, nylon, polycarbonate, and food contact safe thermoplastic. You can obtain a model, prototype, part, or product simply by sharing a 3D model. The domain experts at VOiLA 3D will send you a quote after reviewing the 3D model and 3D print the item once you send the order and payment confirmation. 

3D Technique

In addition to selling FDM 3D printers, 3D Technique offers 3D designing services, 3D printing services, and 3D scanning services. This Gujarat-based 3D printing company allows you to produce three-dimensional items using a variety of 3D printing technologies – FDM, SLS, SLA, DLP, and Polyjet. Also, you have the option to choose from several 3D printing filaments according to the precise needs of your project. 3D Technique delivers the 3D-printed item at your doorstep based on the digital file share by you. It further helps you to customize the 3D printing services without escalating costs.

3Ding

In addition to selling and renting 3D printers, 3Ding offers 3D designing, 3D printing, and 3D scanning services. You can avail of the 3D printing services to get a physical model, part, prototype, or product by uploading your digital file and selecting the 3D printing technology/filament. Also, you can get the digital file created by experienced 3D artists by availing of 3D designing services. 3Ding has already delivered over two million 3D-printed parts to clients from different industries. It further allows you to get a single item by availing of 3D printing services.

Think3D

Along with selling 3D printers, 3D scanners, and 3D filament, Think3D provides 3D designing, 3D printing, and 3D scanning services. This Telangana-based 3D company allows you to choose from a variety of 3D printing services according to the precise needs of your project. Hence, you can get the desired item using widely used 3D printing technologies like FDM, SLA, SLS, or DMLS. The engineers at Think3D have already 3D-printed prototypes for enterprises across industries. Hence, they can deliver high-precision 3D-printed items by combining the right 3D printing technology and filament.

Global3DHub

In addition to supplying 3D printers and 3D printing filaments, this Rajasthan-based 3D printing company offers 3D printing and rapid prototyping services. You can avail of rapid prototyping services to get solid three-dimensional items based on ideas and concepts. At the same time, you can get customized 3D printing services to get items physically without putting in extra time and effort. You can share the digital file with the Global3DHub and get the desired item by combining the appropriate 3D printing technology and filament.

3DigiPrints

3DigiPrints helps you to create prototypes rapidly by making accuracy and authenticity the key points in the 3D printing process. You can avail of the 3D printing services to create prototypes in four simple steps by uploading the 3D model in STL format. The team at 3DigiPrints will help you to choose the right 3D printer and 3D printing filament according to the precise needs of your project. Also, 3DigiPrints delivers the 3D-printed item to your doorstep. Also, you can avail of the rapid prototyping services to create a 3D model that replicated your ideas accurately.

3DBazaar

Along with selling 3D printers, 3D Bazaar helps you to build prototypes rapidly by offering designing services and 3D printing services. You can avail of engineering designing services and organic designing services to design complex shapes and patterns using CAD software. At the same time, the 3D printing services provided by 3D Bazaar helps you to get prototypes physically simply by uploading the digital file in OBJ or STL format. You also have the option to choose from a slew of 3D printers and 3D printing filaments while uploading the 3D model.

In India, you have the option to choose from many 3D printing service providers. But you can get high-quality and high-precision 3D printing services only by comparing the leading providers using a variety of parameters. The comparison will help you to choose the best Indian 3D printing service provider for your project.

Keyword: 3D printing service providers

References

https://www.cati.com/blog/2018/08/3d-printing-parts-services-need/

https://technology.siliconindia.com/ranking/3d-printing-service-providers-2019-rid-576.html

https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/top-10-india-based-3d-printing-services-company-bring-engineering

9 Innovative Applications of 3D Printing for Automotive Industry

Automotive companies have been leveraging 3D printing technologies for quite some time to drive innovation and curtail costs. Initially, 3D printing technologies were used by automotive companies for rapid prototyping. But many automotive manufacturers these days incorporate 3D printing into every process and function. Also, many automotive companies have announced their plan to launch 3D-printed cars in the near future.

According to FutureWise Market Research & Reports, “The global automotive 3D printing market is expected to value over US $ 3 Billion by 2027 end and register a CAGR of 26.1% during the forecast period, 2020 to 2027. The automotive industry is incorporating 3D printing into almost all of its processes and functions, right from designing prototypes, manufacturing, concept designing, to end-to-end repairs.”

The forecast report depicts the growing significance of 3D printing technologies for the automotive industry. The common applications of 3D printing for the automotive industry include accelerating production, reducing turnaround time, and curtailing operational costs. But automotive companies have been creating new use cases regularly by applying and leveraging 3D printing technologies innovatively. We are highlighting some of the exciting and innovative automotive 3D printing applications.

9 Exciting Use Cases and Applications of 3D Printing for Automotive Industry

1) Launching 3D-Printed Vehicles

Most vehicles these days contain a variety of 3D-printed parts and components. But anautomotive company has already launched the world’s first 3D-printed car. According to EnduranceWarranty.com, “Local Motors’ solution to changing the way we make cars is the ‘Strati,’ the world’s first 3D-printed car. It’s a humble, yet uniquely sleek-looking machine. It was built, or rather, printed in Detroit, in collaboration with Oak Ridge National Laboratory in Tennessee.” The customers will soon have the option to choose from conventional and 3D-printed vehicles while visiting a local dealership.

2) Driving Vehicle Electrification

The growing demand for greener transportation options has made it essential for automotive companies to accelerate the electrification of vehicles. But no automotive company can electrify vehicles only by leveraging cutting-edge electric technologies. It has to focus extensively on focus on designing new lightweight components. 3D printing technologies enable engineers to design and evaluate lightweight components by facilitating overnight prototyping. Also, they can make changes to the prototypes regularly to reduce the overall weight of the electric vehicle.

3) Designing Connected Vehicles

The connected cars communicate and interact with a variety of nearby devices using both embedded and portable communication systems. Most connected cars are designed with complex components like antennas and sensors. The traditional manufacturing technologies keep sensors separated from the vehicles. But automotive companies leverage 3D printing technologies to create connected vehicles with embedded sensors. The embedded sensors make the vehicle gather data reliably. Also, engineers can save both time and resources by 3D-printing the sensors and antennas.

4) Accelerating Prototyping Process

3D printing technologies enable automotive companies to accelerate prototyping and concept designing. Engineers can combine appropriate 3D printing technology and filament to convert design concepts and ideas into physical prototypes. 3D printing further helps engineers to evaluate concept designs without increasing filament usage and wastage. Leading automotive companies invest in high-end 3D printers to obtain and evaluate convincing proofs of concepts in a few hours.

5) Creating Custom and Complex Parts

The conventional manufacturing methods increase the overall cost of producing custom and complex parts hugely. But automakers can save both time and cost by 3D-printing custom and complex parts. One of the common applications of 3D printing for the automotive industry is the creation of custom and complex car parts on demand without sacrificing functionality and performance. Most automotive companies these days 3D-print car parts to abandon and transform conventional manufacturing methods.

6) 3D-Printing Spare and General Parts

The flexible nature of 3D printing enables engineers to experiment with a wide variety of hardware and filament. Also, engineers can easily curtail costs by reducing material consumption and cost. That is why; automotive companies these days 3D-print a variety of spare parts and general parts. They minimize the dependence on the supply chain by 3D-printing spare parts on demand. At the same time, they leverage 3D printing technologies to assemble multiple parts or components into a single part.

7) Manufacturing Tools Internally

Earlier, automotive companies were outsourcing the production of manufacturing aids and tools to save both time and resources. But the dependence on machining service providers made it difficult for automakers to speed up time-to-market. 3D printing technologies create opportunities for automakers to produce tools and manufacturing aids internally. The automotive companies can further control the production process without escalating costs. They can further experiment with 3D printing filaments to manufacture innovative tools and replace metal components with plastic components.

8) Driving Sales of Classic and Vintage Cars

According to Bloomberg.com, “From Bentley to BMW, Polestar to Porsche, new-car sales have slumped in 2020. Sales of classic cars, on the other hand, have remained positively stable.” But no automotive company can boost the sale of classic cars and vintage cars without ensuring the supply of components and spare parts. 3D printing technologies enable automakers to support the low-volume production of parts for vintage and out-of-production cars on demand. The leading automakers already leverage 3D printing to supply rare spare parts in both metal and plastic on demand.

9) Supporting Customization and Personalization

Many buyers these days customize and personalize vehicles by availing of a variety of aftermarket parts and services. Many automakers already attract and impress buyers by providing them with many personalization and customization options. They leverage 3D printing technologies to customize vehicles as well as personalize the experience. The leading automobile manufacturers allow customers to customize vehicles by ordering 3D-printed parts and panels. The buyers also have the option to make the vehicle stand out from the crowd by choosing from a wide range of colors and patterns.

3D printing service providers have the potential to transform the automotive industry by facilitating the electrification of vehicles. The customers will soon have the option to choose from many 3D-printed cars and vehicles. That is why; new applications and use cases of 3D printing for the automotive industrywill be created regularly in the future.

Keyword: applications of 3D printing for automotive industry

References

https://all3dp.com/2/coolest-3d-printed-cars/

https://www.endurancewarranty.com/learning-center/news/first-3d-printed-car-makes-debut/

https://amfg.ai/2020/09/03/3d-printing-in-the-automotive-industry-4-major-digital-manufacturing-trends/

https://formlabs.com/asia/blog/3d-printed-car-how-3d-printing-is-changing-the-automotive-industry/

https://www.3dcastor.com/post/the-best-applications-of-3d-printing-in-the-automotive-industry

https://archer-soft.com/blog/how-3d-printing-used-automotive-industry

https://www.hubs.com/knowledge-base/automotive-3d-printing-applications/#applications

https://amfg.ai/2019/05/28/7-exciting-examples-of-3d-printing-in-the-automotive-industry/