3D printing is a process that creates three-dimensional objects from a digital model. It’s often called additive manufacturing
(AM) because the objects are built by adding successive
layers of material, one on top of the next. Conventional
manufacturing uses subtractive methods where the desired
shape is created by cutting material away from a solid block.
3D printing is less wasteful because material is only added
where it’s needed to create the part.
A 3D printer is the machine that builds the part. 3D printers
differ based on the type of printing technology used and the
size of the parts they can build. To make the part, the printer
gets its “instructions” from a CAD model and software “slices”
the CAD model into virtual layers. The printer then applies
material where it’s needed to build each layer until the object is
completed.
From rapid prototyping to manufacturing to realistic medical
modeling, 3D printing opens the door to increased efficiencies
and broader business opportunities. 3D printing frees you from
traditional manufacturability constraints because your designs
aren’t limited by the restrictions of conventional machine and
mold tools. You can make things that often can’t be made at
all with conventional tools, so you can optimize and create
prototypes, tools, medical models and functional parts much
more quickly and for a lower cost.
As you begin your search for the right 3D printing solution,
this guide will help you understand the questions you’ll
need to ask as well as provide insight into the technologies,
materials and services available to you.
