3 tips for choosing the right 3D printing technology

There are many 3D printers available, with fully assembled and kit forms popular. Kits require assembly, which requires some technical know-how, but are often significantly cheaper. However, not all 3D printers will use the same printing technology. Learn 3 tips for choosing the right 3D printing technology in this article.

Fused deposition modeling (FDM)

Fused deposition modeling is the simplest and most common printing technology. Find more information at https://www.erowz.no. It is also known as fused filament fabrication (FFF) or plastic jet printing (PJP). In this process, a printer typically prints an object in successive layers by extruding a continuous length of printing material such as ABS or PLA filament through a heated nozzle. Thus, the printing starts from the bottom and progresses upward.

Stereo lithography (SLA)

SLA uses a special liquid plastic printing material called a photopolymer resin. Typically, an ultraviolet laser solidifies layer after layer of printing material to create the part. SLA-based 3D models have incredibly high resolution. The process is also faster than FDM and SLS. It is a popular choice for modelers and designers. However, it is an expensive process and requires additional post-processing steps, such as washing and curing, in addition to removing the standard substrate and other finishing work.

Selective Laser Sintering (SLS)

SLS uses a laser to melt and fuse powdered raw materials such as silicates, polystyrene, or even metal to print an object. It can produce high detail when printing. As a result, it is an excellent choice for industrial design applications. However, it is the most expensive of these printing technologies.