3D Printing is revolutionising the manufacturing industry. It is being called as the"first manufacturing revolution" in the 21st century. The market is flooded with people wanting to purchase a 3D printer due to its convenience and cost-effectiveness. Everyone is buying a 3D printer, regardless of whether they are dentists, hobbyists or engineers artists, architects, or.
But not every 3D printer is appropriate for each and every user. There are a variety of technologies that have been created for specific purposes. 3D printing is a general term that refers to a range of types of technology. A 3D printer used for industrial prototyping isn't suitable for dental purposes and vice versa.
There are many 3D printers available. It can be difficult to locate one if you don't have enough expertise. We've compiled a list of important factors to consider when buying an 3D printer 3d modeling software. These aspects will help you choose the best 3D printer for you.
Application
The primary thing to take into consideration when purchasing metal 3d printer is to determine the primary application of 3D printing for your needs. Are you using it for a hobby for home use, industrial prototyping specialised applications for 3D printing such as dental or jewellery gifting? This can affect the choice. Different technologies are suitable for various types of applications . Selecting the best printer for your project can go a long way in ensuring a positive 3D printing experience.
Material Compatibility
When purchasing 3d modeling software, it is crucial to consider the material compatibility. If your 3D printed output is going to be used in particular applications, the product must be printed using the most suitable technology. The material should have the needed properties to perform as per the designed specifications.
Material properties displayed by nylon made with SLS technology differ from those displayed by FDM technology.
So, choosing the technology which offers printing in the same materials as your application will be the best option.
Build Volume
The area of printing is called the build volume. It is important to consider the size of print which will be used the most frequently when choosing a printer. It's not feasible to buy a large printer that will print any size of print. The price of the printer increases, and it may hamper the quality of smaller delicate prints. Large prints can even be outsourced if they are ordered in smaller quantities.
Printers that use SLA/DLP, for instance are smaller than other build volumes. If larger prints are needed for example, an SLA printer is not worth the price. A larger FDM or SLS printer may print a somewhat coarse piece and can be processed to create a perfect final. When making these choices it is essential to make the right trade-offs.
Cost of Materials and Availability
The material library for almost all 3D printing techniques is growing day-by-day. However, the properties of the material of each technology differ. So, carefully analysing the kind of components you will be printing in the near future with your 3D printer as well as the type of material you will need for this will assist you in understanding which technology offers the best material for your needs.
FDM filaments can be found all over the world at reasonable prices. However, special materials such as flame-resistant metallic and polymers might not be readily available, and could require a long time to obtain, which can increase the price and time to lead.
A 3D printer's material costs is also important since it affects the cost of prototyping. Powdered materials are expensive and are not suitable for SLM/DMLS technology. Powdered material also has the limitation of shelf life; the powder that has been used up cannot be used again after having passed through 4-5 printing cycles.
Resolution
Resolution can have a direct impact on printing the smallest features and finishing of the printed object. Printers with higher resolution is able to print the smallest of features and the height of the layer will be lower, resulting in a smooth surface finish. A 3D printer that has a high resolution is a good investment.
SLA/DLP printers offer the best resolution, with around 20 microns. SLS is 60 microns and FDM is around 100 microns.