> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://monasheng.gitbook.io/zerotohero/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://monasheng.gitbook.io/zerotohero/3d-printing-zero-to-hero/introduction-to-3d-printing.md). # Introduction to 3D Printing {% embed url="" %} {% hint style="info" %} :man\_mage: **Important:** 3D Printing is an [additive manufacturing](https://markforged.com/resources/blog/additive-manufacturing-101-guide-the-basics#:~:text=The%20term%20additive%20manufacturing%20refers,to%20form%20the%20desired%20shapes.) process, where a part is built up from a precursor material (i.e. a filament, powder, or resin) layer-by-layer. Compared to subtractive manufacturing techniques (like machining), 3D Printing can significantly reduce material stock usage and achieve complex geometries more easily. {% endhint %} There are many variations of the 3D Printing technique, including but not limited to: * Fused-deposition-modelling (FDM) 3D Printing, the most common technique for making affordable and accessible plastic parts, * Metal 3D Printing (e.g. by *selective laser sintering*), where high-strength/high-stiffness parts can be made, and, * Resin 3D Printing (sometimes called *stereolithography*), where incredible detail and can be achieved, and higher-than-normal plastic part strength, stiffness, and temperature resistance can be achieved. This module will focus on *Plastic* *FDM 3D Printing -* the most appropriate technique for beginners and probably the most commonly used by makers and professional engineers in the prototyping of components and production of finished plastic parts. ## FDM 3D Printing Fundaments FDM 3D printers work a little like regular inkjet printers. Through a CNC process, the printer moves an *extruder head* along a path in space, and deposits a thin layer of molten [thermoplastic](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Thermoplastic#:~:text=A%20thermoplastic%2C%20or%20thermosoftening%20plastic,have%20a%20high%20molecular%20weight.) along this path.

A plastic screw being FDM 3D Printed. From: https://3dprinters.biz.ua/en/fdm_3d_printing/

By printing a layer of plastic, then moving the head up and away and printing another, the printer can build-up a 3D geometry layer-by-layer ('slice-by-slice').

3D printing a model of a hand. From: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/3d-printing-revolutionary-technology-kartik-sharma/

## Typical Applications 3D Printing has become very affordable - both in terms of the printer hardware and also consumables. This cost, coupled with the relative accessibility of this technique and low the barrier for it's use, means that 3D Printing is commonly used for Rapid Prototyping. Here, one or several iterations of a product or part destined for a different manufacturing technique (e.g. at scale - forging, casting, injection molding, etc.) can be produced in plastic first to check fit & feel, interface with other components, etc. \[pic] 3D printing is also commonly used for low- to mid-volume production of plastic components. For example, the (fairly common) PRUSA 3D printer is actually itself made from 3D printed parts. [PRUSA maintains a farm of hundreds of printers](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qqQzTvvrXo8) to manufacture components for the printers they sell. This means they do not need to invest capital in e.g. injection-molding tooling every time there is a minor (or major) design revision.

PRUSA 3D printers (which you can use at the Design & Build Studios) are themselves comprised of some 3D printed parts (orange). From: https://shop.prusa3d.com/en/3d-printers/181-original-prusa-i3-mk3s-3d-printer.html

## Suitability The kind of FDM 3D Printing we'll touch on in this module is really only suitable for thermoplastics. While of a range of different thermoplastic filaments are available, and while the 3D Printers in the Design & Build Studios are capable of working with these, parts manufactured using this technique will generally face the following limitations: * Relatively low strength and stiffness, * Relatively low service/operating temperatures, * Not-great-not-terrible surface finishes, and, * Relatively low chemical resistance. For prototypes, and some noncritical/low load parts, these are very workable constraints. Before putting a printed part into service, consider whether it's material properties are suitable for the task at hand.