There are several types of technologies used by 3D printers. Each 3D printer is considered to possess a different intention for its topic (or your choice). Depending on the conditions, you have to decide on a type that will determine the particular printer’s advantages and disadvantages. There is always a balance between many variables such as quality, durability, and price.
Therefore, it is essential to choose the best printer for your needs. 3D printers are usually categorized by the source material they use. In the beginning, 3D printers could only print with vinyl, which led to a decrease in product quality. The need to increase productivity and efficiency led to the development of specific types of printers.
Fused Deposition Modeling
FDM is the most common 3D printer where plastic filaments are used to print products—using examples, toys, cup holders, professional presentations, etc. The process starts with printing the basic cross-section according to the layout plan. The nozzle movement and extrusion process are precisely coordinated to draw the entire section. After printing a complete layer, the machine slows down, and another layer is printed.
Stereolithography
Stereolithography could add tiny details to things along with speed. It is used quite a bit for artwork and in most places where detail in objects is the top priority. So, you could say that stereolithography is a bit like the pretty boy of show business. This phenomenon is called restoration, and the resins are called light-curing resins.
The setup is similar to the extruder in FDM printers but includes a removable and detachable mirror. The laser can be used at any stage of the plane. Resin is poured into a reservoir above or below the laser, depending on the printer design. The dot is then melted, leaving a transparent layer of uncured resin available for another layer. Bonding of the layers occurs during the retrieval of the next layer.
Digital Light Processing
DLP and SLA belong to precisely the same type of printers that use curing methods to publish. So, where is DLP used? Before answering the question, let’s decide how DLP works. Thus, the entire projected area is treated at the same time. This strategy dramatically reduces the recovery time of a layer. DLP can be used to print at higher speeds. DLP reprinting processes are the same as SLA. However, LCD printers have some usage and maintenance issues.
Selective Laser Sintering
This type of printer uses a technique called “sintering” to manufacture it. Although sintering gives printed objects a high capacity, it cannot provide high geometric accuracy and requires many profile finishing before use. SLS also involves knowledge of additive manufacturing and real-time observation during printing. A thin, uniform layer of powder is deposited on the print bed. SLS is a very complicated and complex process among other types. An assortment of techniques on how to get the final product. SLS can also print things made of metal.
