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As an important innovation in modern manufacturing,3d models printinghas been widely used in many fields, demonstrating its unique advantages from prototype design to final product manufacturing. As technology continues to advance, thetypes of 3D printingare becoming increasingly diverse. This blog will introduce several main types of3d printing modelin detail to help everyone better understand this field.

What is 3D Printing?

3D printing, the full name of three-dimensional printing or additive manufacturing technology, is a technology that builds three-dimensional entities by accumulating materials layer by layer. Different from traditional subtractive manufacturing (such as cutting) or equal material manufacturing (such as casting, forging),3dprintingstarts directly from the digital model and uses precision equipment under computer control to stack materials into the required form. Shape and size. This process requires no molds or tools, greatly increasing design freedom and manufacturing flexibility.

How Many Types of 3D Printing Are There?

1.Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM)

FDM is a method of heating, melting and forming various hot-melt filamentary materials (such as wax, ABS and nylon, etc.). Its working principle is to melt the low melting point filamentary material into a liquid through the extrusion head of the heater, and then extrude it through the nozzle, and move accurately according to the contour of each section of the part, so that the melted thermoplastic material is deposited and solidified into a precise shape. Thin layers of actual parts. This process proceeds layer by layer, eventually stacking up into a solid model or part.

Advantage

1. Non-toxic, but some filaments like ABS produce toxic fumes. Usually it is  environmentally safe process.
2. Wide range of colorful printing materials, not so expensive, and with high utilisation.
3. Low or moderate costs of equipment.
4. Low or moderate post-processing costs (support removal and surface finishing).
5. Best for medium-sized elements.
6. The porosity of the components is virtually zero.
7. High structural stability, chemical, water and temperature resistance properties of materials.
8. Rather big build volume comparing to other desktop technologies: 600 x 600 x 500 mm.

Disadvantages

1. Limited design options. Can’t produce thin walls, acute angles, sharp edges in vertical plane.
2. Printed models are the weakest in vertical build direction because of the anisotropy in material properties due to additive layer method.
3. Supports are needed.
4. Not very accurate, with the tolerance between 0.10 to 0.25 mm.
5. Tensile strength is approximately two-thirds of the same material that has been injection-moulded.
6. Difficult to control build chamber temperature, which is crucial for best results.
7. Problem of “stair-stepping” in vertical build plane.

2.Stereolithography (SLA)

A technique known as photopolymerization is used by stereolithography (SLA), a3D printing method, to produce three-dimensional objects. It was among the earliest methods for additive manufacturing to be created, and it’s still in use today. SLA is commonly used in applications that require high-resolution prototypes, detailed models, jewelry, dental applications, and other industries where accuracy and fine details are crucial.

Advantage

• Maturity:It is the earliest practical rapid prototyping technology with high maturity.
• Processing speed:Prototypes are directly made from CAD digital models, with fast processing speed and short product production cycle.
• Complex structure:It can process prototypes and molds with complex structural shapes or that are difficult to form using traditional means.
• Visualization:Make CAD digital models intuitive and reduce the cost of error repair.
• Verification and verification:Provide samples for experiments, which can verify and verify the results of computer simulation calculations.

Disadvantages

• System cost:SLA systems are expensive to build, and their use and maintenance costs are too high.
• Working environment:The working environment is demanding, and conditions such as temperature and humidity need to be controlled.
• Performance of molded parts:Molded parts are mostly made of resin and have limited strength, stiffness, and heat resistance, which are not conducive to long-term storage.
• Software operation:The preprocessing software and driver software require a large amount of calculations, are complex to operate, and difficult to get started.

3.Selective Laser Sintering (SLS)

SLS uses precise control of high-energy laser beams to scan and sinter powder materials layer by layer, ultimately achieving the precise construction of complex three-dimensional entities. The advantage of SLS technology is that it broadens the scope of material selection (such as metals, ceramics, polymers, etc.), has high molding accuracy and powerful structural complexity processing capabilities. This makesSLS widely used in high-end manufacturing fields such as aerospace and automobile manufacturing. However, SLS equipment also faces challenges such as higher cost and greater technical difficulty.

Advantage

1. Material selection:A variety of materials can be used, including metal powder, ceramic powder, etc.
2. Part strength:The part has high strength and is suitable for manufacturing high-precision and high-strength parts.
3. Material utilization rate:The material utilization rate is high, and the unsintered powder can be reused without waste.
4. No supports required:No support structures are required, simplifying the printing process.

Disadvantages

1. Loose structure:The prototype structure is loose, porous, and has internal stress, making it unstable in production.
2. Post-processing:Post-processing to produce ceramic and metal parts is difficult.
3. Preheating and cooling:Preheating and cooling processes are required, which increases printing time.
4. Environmental pollution:The molding process may produce toxic gases and dust, so measures need to be taken to protect the environment.

4.Multi-nozzle printing

Multi-nozzle printing technology uses multiple nozzles toprint materialssimultaneously or alternately during the 3D printing process. This technology can significantly increase printing speed and efficiency while enabling mixed printing of multiple materials. Multi-nozzle printing technology has important advantages in manufacturing complex structures, multi-material components and color 3D printing.

Advantage

• Printing quality:The printed products are of high quality and support the production of high-definition parts.
• Multi-material printing:Supports printing with multiple materials, including clay, plasticine, ceramics, ABS, PLA, etc.
• Support structure:Unique wax-based support structure, easy and fast removal.

Disadvantages

• Complex structure:The complex structure of multiple nozzles increases the difficulty of equipment maintenance.
• Maintenance difficulty:Maintenance is difficult and requires professional skills and tools.
• Prices of consumables:Consumables are monopolized and prices are higher.
• Printing speed:The printing speed is relatively slow and takes longer to print.

5.Binder spraying

Binder jetting technology is to spray the binder onto the powder material through a nozzle, so that the powder material solidifies under the action of the binder and forms the desired shape. This technology has the advantages of high material utilization, low cost, and the ability to print large and complex structures. However, its printing accuracy and speed may be limited by binder jetting and powder material properties.

Advantage

1. Material utilization rate:The material utilization rate is high, and the remaining materials can be screened and reused.
2. Forming efficiency:Forming efficiency depends on the number of printing nozzles. The greater the number of nozzles, the higher the forming efficiency.
3. No support required:There is no need to design special supports. The self-supporting powder material can realize repeated forming of multiple parts.

Disadvantages

1. Material selection:Although theoretically this technology is suitable for many types of materials, in practice the available metal materials are limited.
2. Degreasing sintering process:The degreasing sintering process is the key point of quality control, but it is also the core difficulty of control.
3. Part size:Medium and large parts cannot be formed, and the part size is limited.
4. Performance after degreasing:The density of the material after degreasing is not high, resulting in poor performance, especially the low yield strength.

Technology	Speed	Cost	Materials used	Complexity
FDM	relatively slow	lower	thermoplastic wire	medium
SLA	Faster (for small high-precision models)	higher	photosensitive resin	high
SLS	Medium (depends on object size and complexity)	higher	Metal powder, plastic powder	high
Multi-nozzle printing	Medium to slow (depending on print color and amount of material)	medium to high	Plastic wire or powder in various colors	medium to high
Binder jetting	Medium (depends on object size and complexity)	lower	Ceramic powder, metal powder, etc.	high

What are the 3 Types of Modeling in 3D Printing?

3Dprinting modelingrefers to the use of computer software to create three-dimensionaldigital3d printing models,which are then used by a 3D printer to generate physical objects. This process involves using specific modeling tools and techniques to build out the geometry, structure and surface features of an object in virtual space. The following are some commonly used modeling methods in the modeling process:

Solid modeling

Build by creating geometries (such as cubes, spheres, cylinders, etc.) and then perform Boolean operations (such as union, intersection, difference) to generate complex models.

• How to use:In CAD software, users can use solid modeling tools to create objects with precisely defined sizes and shapes.
• Industry examples:Architects can use solid modeling to create three-dimensional models of buildings for structural analysis and visualization. In addition, engineers can use solid modeling to design mechanical parts and assemblies, ensuring they are the correct size and shape and fit together.

Surface Modeling

Build models through free-form curves and surfaces with greater flexibility and precision, suitable for complex organic shapes.

• How to use:In CAD or professional surface modeling software, users can use curve and surface tools to create smooth and continuous object surfaces.
• Industry examples:Automotive designers can use surface modeling to create a car's body and skin, ensuring they have a streamlined appearance and comfortable interior space. Artists can use surface modeling to create complex and beautiful artworks, such as sculptures and jewelry.

Grid modeling

Mesh modeling is a method of building models by creating polygonal meshes that simulate the surface shape and detail of an object.

• How to use:In3D modeling software, users can use the mesh tool to create and edit polygonal meshes to create detailed and complex geometries.
• Industry example:In film and game production, mesh modeling is used to create three-dimensional models of characters, scenes, and props for animation and rendering. In addition, designers can use mesh modeling to create product models with complex shapes and details, such as electronic product casings and furniture.

What Materials Are Used in 3D Printing?

1.Plastic material

1. PLA (polylactic acid): A biodegradable plastic derived from renewable plant resources such as corn starch. It is non-toxic and odorless and does not produce a pungent smell when printing, making it ideal for home use. PLA printed parts have a smooth surface and bright colors, but have a low melting point and poor high temperature resistance.
2. ABS (Acrylonitrile-Butadiene-Styrene): A common engineering plastic with good mechanical properties and chemical resistance. It has a higher melting point and can print parts with a certain degree of toughness and strength. However, ABS may produce a pungent odor during the printing process, so it needs to be used in a well-ventilated environment. PA (Polyamide): Also known as nylon, it is a high-strength, high-toughness material widely used in industrial fields. Parts printed from nylon materials have high strength and toughness, making them suitable for manufacturing parts that need to withstand high stress and wear. However, the price of nylon materials is relatively high, and high temperature and humidity control are also required during the printing process.
3. TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane): a special soft material whose printed products have a certain degree of elasticity. TPU printing effect is excellent, the molding is smooth, no bubbles, the surface is smooth and delicate, and the color is accurate. In addition, TPU is an environmentally friendly product, non-toxic and has no irritating smell.
4. PETG (polyethylene terephthalate): a composite material that combines the advantages of PLA and ABS. Compared with ABS, PETG has higher toughness, is easy to print, and does not warp, smell, or bubble. The finished products printed by PETG are clear and transparent, so it has become one of the favorite 3D printing materials in the advertising letter industry.

Photosensitive resin

A polymer material that solidifies when exposed to light of a specific wavelength. It is usually used in SLA (stereolithography) or DLP (digital light processing) 3D printing technology. Parts printed with photosensitive resin have smooth surfaces and high precision, and are suitable for manufacturing parts that require high precision and surface quality. However, the price of photosensitive resin is relatively high, and the lighting conditions need to be strictly controlled during the printing process.

Metal materials

such as titanium alloys, stainless steel, etc. These materials are usually used in SLM (selective laser melting) or SLS (selective laser sintering) technology and are suitable for manufacturing industrial parts and complex metal components. Parts printed from metal materials have metallic strength and conductivity, but metal 3D printing equipment is expensive, has slow printing speed, and requires special post-processing processes to improve the accuracy and surface quality of the parts.

Ceramic material

It has excellent high temperature resistance, wear resistance and corrosion resistance. Ceramic 3D printing technology usually uses methods such as powder metallurgy or laser melting. Ceramic printing parts can be used in high temperature, high pressure and corrosive environments in aerospace, medical equipment and other fields. However, ceramic materials are relatively brittle, and parameters such as temperature and pressure need to be strictly controlled during the printing process.

Why choose Longsheng’s online 3D printing service?

• Multi-material processing:We have the ability to process a variety of materials, no matter what material parts you need to process, we can provide professional solutions.
• Competitive prices:We provide competitive prices and cost-effective solutions to ensure customers gain the greatest advantage in cost control.
• Customized Services:Provide customized solutions based on customers’ design requirements and specifications to ensure parts meet their unique needs.
• Fast delivery:We have efficient production processes and flexible production plans, allowing us to deliver customer orders in a timely manner and meet urgent project needs.

FAQs

1.How many different types of 3D printing are there?

There are manytypes of 3D printing technology. The main common types include: SLA (stereolithography), DLP (digital light processing), FDM (fused deposition modeling), SLS (selective laser sintering), SLM (selective laser melting) ; In addition, there are many types such as PolyJet, electron beam melting (EBM), laser melting (LM) or electron beam free form manufacturing (EBFFF), layered object manufacturing (LOM), architectural 3D printing, biological 3D printing, etc. These technologies build objects layer by layer in different ways and are suitable for a variety of needs, from plastic to metal, and from prototypes to final products.

2.What are the 3 types of modeling in 3D printing?

In 3D printing, solid modeling, surface modeling and mesh modeling are three common modeling methods. Each method has its unique advantages and scope of application, and the appropriate modeling method can be selected based on specific application requirements. At the same time, with the continuous development and popularization of 3D printing technology,printing shopswill be more and more widely used in various fields.

3.What are the 8 types of printing methods?

The eight common printing methods include fused deposition printing, light curing printing, powder sintering printing,inkjet printing, adhesive jet printing, directional energy deposition, wire accumulation printing, and sheet lamination. It should be noted that the above-mentioned classification ofprinting methodsis not absolute. With the continuous development of 3D printing technology, new printing methods and technologies are also emerging. At the same time, the statement "8 ways of printing" may differ due to different classification standards and perspectives.

Summary

There are manytypes of 3D printingtechnology, each with unique characteristics and application areas. With the continuous development of technology and the expansion of application breadth, 3d printing serviceswill play an important role in more fieldsand bring more convenience and creativity to people. When selecting a 3D printing technology suitable for specific needs, factors such as material properties, accuracy requirements, printing speed and cost need to be considered to ensure the best application results.

Disclaimer

The content on this page is for reference only. Longsheng does not make any express or implied representation or warranty as to the accuracy, completeness or validity of the information. No performance parameters, geometric tolerances, specific design features, material quality and type or workmanship should be inferred as to what a third party supplier or manufacturer will deliver through the Longsheng Network. It is the responsibility of the buyer seeking a quote for parts to determine the specific requirements for those parts.Please contact us for more information.

Longsheng Team

This article was written by multiple Longsheng contributors. Longsheng is a leading resource in the manufacturing sector, withCNC machining,sheet metal fabrication,3D printing,injection molding,metal stamping, and more.