3D printing

What is 3d printing?

3D printing is a way of making physical objects from a digital design. It works by building up layers of material to create the final object. There are different types of 3D printing that use different methods, such as melting and extruding material or using a light to harden resin. 

What types of 3d printing can be done?

There are several different types of 3D printing technologies. Two of the most popular types of 3D printing are:

1. Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM): This is the most widely used type of 3D printing. It involves melting and extruding plastic or other materials through a nozzle to build up layers of the final object.

2. Stereolithography (SLA): This type of 3D printing uses a laser or other light source to cure and solidify layers of photopolymer resin.

A little more about FDM

Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) is a type of 3D printing that involves melting and extruding plastic or other materials through a nozzle to build up layers of the final object. It works by heating the material until it becomes a molten liquid, and then extruding it through a nozzle in a precise pattern to create the layers of the object.

Imagine a hot glue gun that can move in three dimensions and can lay down very thin layers of molten plastic. That's essentially how FDM works. The nozzle moves around on the printing bed, depositing thin layers of material that cool and solidify, building up the object layer by layer.

FDM is a popular type of 3D printing because it is relatively simple and inexpensive, and it can produce strong, durable objects. It is also widely available, with many different brands and models of FDM 3D printers on the market.

How to get started 3d printing

To get started 3D printing, here are some things you can do:

1. Find out which type of 3D printing is best for what you want to do, considering factors like the materials you want to use and your budget.

2. Buy a 3D printer that meets your needs. Look for one that is suitable for your goals and budget.

3. Learn how to use your 3D printer, including how to set it up and operate it, and how to fix common problems.

4. Get familiar with 3D modeling software, which is used to create digital models for 3D printing.

5. Start printing! You can either make your own designs using 3D modeling software or download and print designs created by others.

Remember, it may take some time and practice to become good at 3D printing. Don't be afraid to ask for help or find online resources and communities where you can learn from others.