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INFO TITLE: 3D Printing ID: 9T URL: https://wikis.utexas.edu/display/H360/3D+Printing TAGS:
Description
3D printing is the process in which a 3D digital model (CAD) is turned into a physical object. It is commonly referred to as an additive manufacturing technique. Although there are differences amongst the technologies used, fundamentally, a 3D model is converted into G-code – a numerical control computer language for computer aided manufacturing that tells a machine how to move. Accordingly, the machine knows where to deposit, cure or sinter material during the fabrication process.
“3D printing creates physical products from a digital design file by joining or forming input substrate materials using a layer-upon-layer printing approach”
Technologies behind 3D printing
There are five main technologies behind 3D printing: Stereolithography, Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM)/Fused Filament Fabrication (FFF), Selected Laser Sintering (SLS), Polyjetting. Although fundamentally, all achieve the same, some they work in different ways.
Stereolithography: works with layer combined with photosensitive resin. Objects are printed as the laser cures the resin layer-by-layer to form the object. Limited to [X] type of materials.
FDM/FFF: This is commonly used with ABS, PLA or other types of thermoplastics. These thermoplastics are fed into an extruder and through a hotend. The printer then aquires instructions via G-code and deposits molten plastic layer by layer.
Selected Laser Sintering: There are variations of this type that are mainly dependent on the type of material used. For example, whilst selective laser sintering commonly refers to plastic materials, direct metal laser sintering is applicable to metals. Both rely on material powders, that are then sintered on a molecular level using a laser of sorts. This is done layer by layer by applying it to the powder of material involved.
Polyjetting: This uses principles similar to 2D printing. An inkjet nozzle sprays a liquid photosensitive resin onto a build platform. Then UV light sources are introduced to material for quick curing.
Benefits & Barriers
Mass customization & printing of comples shapes, New capabilities, Lead time and speed, Supply chain simplification, Waste Reduction
Reduced supply costs: China-based 3D printing construction company WinSun , “expects 3D printing will save construction companies up to 50% on the cost” of building a house. This could prove to be a lifesaver for construction managers with access to this technology.
Global Development: Often as automation and mechanization rises, prices drop. 3D printing is an affordable way to create housing for the impoverished in need of adequate shelter.
Greener Construction: Wealth Daily suggests that with the advent of 3D printing, “The use of lumber in the home’s framework would be spared.” This is a great advancement for “green” construction firms, and a frightening development for the lumber industry.
Improved Project Planning: An important part of every project plan is the design. With 3D printing, companies will be able to quickly and inexpensively create models to have as a visual representation of the project as well as help pinpoint problem areas and avoid delays.
Clarify Client Expectations: Now construction professionals and their customers will be able to communicate clearly and efficiently. Even if the customer has no architectural background, he will be better able to express his needs, and ensure that everyone is on the same page.
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3D printing creates physical products from a digital design file by joining or forming input substrate materials using a layer-upon-layer printing approach.
