Additive manufacturing, or 3D printing, lowers costs, saves time, and transcends the limits of fabrication processes for product development. From concept models and functional prototypes in rapid prototyping to jigs, fixtures, or even end-use parts in manufacturing, 3D printing technologies offer versatile solutions in a wide variety of applications.
Over the last few years, high-resolution 3D printers have become more affordable, easier to use, and more reliable. As a result, the technology is now accessible to more businesses, but choosing between the various competing 3D printing solutions can be difficult.
Which technology is suitable for your particular application? What materials are available? What equipment and training do you need to get started? How about costs and return on investment?
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the three most established technologies for 3D printing plastics today: fused deposition modeling (FDM), stereolithography (SLA), and selective laser sintering (SLS).
Fused Deposition Modeling is the most widely used form of 3D printing at the consumer level, fueled by the emergence of hobbyist 3D printers. FDM 3D printers build parts by melting and extruding thermoplastic filament, which a print nozzle deposits layer by layer in the build area.
FDM works with a range of standard thermoplastics, such as ABS, PLA, and their various blends. The technique is well-suited for basic proof-of-concept models, as well as quick and low-cost prototyping of simple parts, such as parts that might typically be machined.
