3D Printing Techniques and Filaments

Printing Techniques

• Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) – Heats filament deposited layer by layer through extrusion head, commonly used for rapid prototyping and product development
• Stereolithography (SLA) – Uses UV laser beam to solidify liquid resin filament, utilized in creating smooth surface objects
• Binder Jetting (BJ) – Binds powdered material together using binding agent, creating full-color architectural models and sculptures
• Material Jetting (MJ) – Layers liquid photopolymer onto build tray and then cured by UV light, used for rapid tooling, prototyping, and designing jewelry
• Powder Bed Fusion (PBF) – Uses either laser or electron beam to melt and fuse material powder together
• Sheet Lamination – Fuses together adhesive-coated material with heat or pressure, and shapes object with laser or knife for low-cost and fast printing of large objects
• Direct Energy Deposition – Deposits melted material via laser or electron beam onto surface, where it solidifies

Filaments

• Thermoplastic – Most common material used in 3D printing, such as PLA, ABSand Nylon, ideal for inexpensive prototypes
• Prototypes, automotive parts, and consumer products
• Resin – Shatter resistant alternative to glass, commonly used for intricate designs and sculptures
• Jewelry, art, and sculptures
• Gypsum – Rigid and delicate powder, also called sandstone, available in multiple colors
• Figurines, life-like models, avatars, architectural models, memorabilia, and complex models
• Metal – Laser sintered metal powder, available in aluminum, stainless steel, bronze, and cobalt chromium
• Structural components, mechanical parts, jewelry, and hardware
• Ceramic – High strength hard material with high temperature resistance, first 3D printed then glazed
• Home decors and tableware