Question

3D printing

What are the technical parameters such as range, speed, capacity, etc. (if
applicable)?
o What are the strengths and weaknesses of the technology?

Answer 1

3D printing Technical parameters

Range- Typical 3D printers have build areas between 6 and 9 inches square, but they can range from a few inches up to more than 2 feet on a side, and a few are actually square.

Speed - 3D printing speed is dependent upon the height of the material manufactured (or the height of the layers constructed) in a given period. It also depends on many factors like the printing technology, the material and the printing resolution. Increasing the printing speed is one of the main challenges in 3D printer manufacturing. Production time depends on the speed of extruder movements.

Capacity- The printing surface is indicated on the material page of our Learning Center. For example, 3D printing in white plastic polyamide (PA11) with raw finish involves a maximum size of 677 x 368 x 565 mm. It totally depends on material you use.

Thread thickness - The layer thickness depends on the extruder rather than thread characteristics. You can buy bobbins by any brand for printers, save for rare printers compatible only with materials by their own producer.

Strengths of 3D printing technology

1. Flexible Design- Complex geometry cannot be made with traditional methods because some areas may be impossible to machine or be able to be removed from a mold. However, with 3D printing, the additive process and use of support material make it possible to make any type of geometry.

2. Minimising Waste - The production of parts only requires the materials needed for the part itself, with little or no wastage as compared to traditional methods where lot of material is wasted. Not only does the process save on resources but it also reduces the cost of the materials being used.

3.Rapid Prototyping- manufacture parts within hours, which speeds up the prototyping process. This allows for each stage to complete as fast as posible.

4. Better for the Environment - As 3D printing technology reduces the amount of material wastage used this process is inherently environmentally friendly

Weaknesses of 3D printing technology

1. High Energy Consumption

2. Limited Materials- 3D printing is not yet versatile enough to work with most materials. This is due to the fact that not all metals or plastics can be temperature controlled enough to allow 3D printing.

3. Too Much Reliance on Plastic- plastic limits the type of products that can be created from the material.

4. Manufacturing Job Losses- 3D printing technology can make product designs and prototypes in a matter of hours which can lead to the decline in manufacturing jobs could dramatically affect the economy.