What is 3D Printing Technology? Its Advantages and Disadvantages

3D printing is a type of additive manufacturing in which a computer design has turned into a physical thing. Material is added layer by layer to transform a digital model into an actual three-dimensional physical object.

History:

Charles Hull created the technology for printing 3-dimensional things from digital data in 1984, naming the approach Stereolithography and obtaining a title for it in 1986. In 2005, Z Corp. released the Spectrum Z510, which was the first better color 3D printer on the market at the same time.

Components of 3D printing:

Nozzle, Layer cooling fan, PRINT BED, Filament, Extruder, Hobbed Gear, Idler Gear, Heater Cartridge, Thermistor/Thermocouple/RTD, Thermistor/Therm X, Y, and Z-Axis Motion Control Frame, Enclosure, Motherboard, Power Supply, Stepper Drivers, Threaded Rods / Leadscrews, Belts, Stepper Motors, Threaded Rods SD Card Slot and End Stops.

Application:

1. Aerospace Industry
2. Architecture Industry
3. Automotive Industry
4. Commercial Products
5. Consumer Goods Industry
6. Consumer Electronics
7. Defense Industry
8. Dental Industry
9. Education Industry
10. Medical Industry

Advantages of 3D Printing:

1. It’s simple to use.
2. Save time in design work.
3. Customization of products.
4. There is no charge for storage.
5. Create a new structure and form.

Disadvantages of 3D printing:

1. The printer is expensive.
2. Size restriction.
3. There is a limitation of raw material.
4. Decrease in the number of manufacturing.

To conclude, 3D printing is a rapidly developing field. Although, the objects made by 3D printing have many potential benefits for society. With today’s 3D printers, you can print and use anything you desire. 3D printers are growing cheaper and better all the time. There is currently research underway to develop 3D printers capable of printing organs for organ transplants. 3D printers will be common in homes within a year. The advantages of this technology are limitless.