What is 3D printing?
3D printing is a process of making three dimensional solid objects from a digital file.
The creation of a 3D printed object is achieved using additive processes. In an additive process an object is created by laying down successive layers of material until the object is created. Each of these layers can be seen as a thinly sliced cross-section of the object.
3D printing enables you to produce complex shapes using less material than traditional manufacturing methods.
What is FDM printing method?
Fused Deposition Modelling (FDM), or Fused Filament Fabrication (FFF), is an additive manufacturing process that belongs to the material extrusion family. In FDM, the material is melting or softening and fused to extrude layers. Similar to how paper printers lay down ink in one layer – two dimensions to create an image, FDM 3D printers lay down material layer by layer – three dimensions to create a three-dimensional object.
The materials used are thermoplastic polymers and come in a filament form.
FDM is the most widely used 3D Printing technology. There are some limitations of the technology when fabricating a part with FDM.
What is DLP printing method?
DLP stands for digital light processing, and is a type of vat polymerization. Vat polymerization 3D printing technologies make use of a (liquid) photopolymer resin which is able to cure (solidify) under a light source.
DLP 3D Printers start printing by lowering the build platform into the resin-filled tank with only one layer of height left between the bottom of the tank and the build platform. Then the projector flashes the image that needs to print for a few seconds and solidifies the liquid.
With DLP you can print fine detail objects with smooth surface.
How 3D printing works?
Creating an object using 3D modelling, CAD program or 3D Scanning or you can find a a free file from websites from 3D printing.
It all starts with a 3D model. Once you have the 3D model; you need to prepare the file. Preparing the object in a slicing software translates the object into a language(gcode) that the printer can understand. This is called slicing. Using an SD Card, or WIFI or ethernet connection you can transfer the file from computer to the 3D Printer. You will select your file and the printer will start printing.
Which materials do we use for 3D printing at Imade3D Cyprus?
At IMADE3D Cyprus we use a variety of materials and colours. The most popular materials are PLA, PETG, and a material with high hardness, CPE.
We have PLA and PETG in a large variety of colours. Contact us to learn more about the possibilities of 3D Printing with us.
What is PLA and PETG?
PLA (polylactic acid) is the most widely used material for 3D printing. It is the best choice for hobby printing. PLA is a bio-sourced and biodegradable polymer that provides great visual quality and highly detailed printing. Odourless, very easy to print with and available in a wide range of unique colours
easy to print material- is suitable for printing large objects – is suitable for beginners, as printing from it is trouble-free. PLA prints are not ideal for outdoor use.
PETG material is essentially the same as the known PET material from which PET bottles are made. The G in the acronym PETG stands for Glycol which is added during the manufacturing process. Glycol modifies the properties of PET so that it’s easier to print and less brittle. It is a strong and tough material, which is characterized by good thermal stability. Thanks to the small shrinkage during printing, it is suitable for printing large objects. PETG has mechanical and thermal properties better than ABS and bearing the printing properties of PLA.
How do I know which material I need to use for my project?
You can use PLA for objects that will be used for visual purposes and it is often recommended to use it if there is not exert any force on the object that can easily deform it.
PETG is the perfect filament to combine strength and ductility, which is why it’s used in so many mechanical parts and robotics. It has great chemical resistance with good water, acidic and alkalic resistance. PETG is also makes a great material for artistic prints like bracelet, rings, collars etc. It has heat resistant up to 90-100 degrees Celsius.
CPE (co-polyesters) is very strong and versatile material with growing popularity in filament form for FDM 3D printing. As printing material, CPE is highly durable, creating prints with high strength and intricate detailing.
If you have any questions for any other materials, send us an email to info@imade3d.com.cy and we can help.
How long does it take for my 3D print to be ready?
If your 3D model does not require any editing then can prepared for 3D printing.
The 3D printing of a model depends on the dimensions, how complex is the 3D model and the how much infil(the material inside the object) will be used. A model of can take from 10 minutes to 2 days to print.
Contact us and we will let you know how long will take!
What is 3D scan?
3D scanning is the process of analysing a real-world object or environment to collect data on its shape and possibly its appearance. The collected data can then be used to construct digital 3D models. A 3D scanner can be based on many different technologies, each with its own limitations, advantages and costs
Do I need to use 3D scanner for my project?
If the project needs to create a 3D model from a real-life object, then yes you can use the 3D scanner.
The 3D scanner can be used for:
- Quickly capture all of the physical measurements of any physical object
- Save time in design work
- Ensure parts will fit together on the first try
- Capture engineering optimizations inherent in manufactured parts
- Utilize modern manufacturing on parts that were originally manufactured before CAD
- Compare “as-designed” model to “as-built” condition of manufactured parts
How 3D scan works?
3D scanning is a technology for creating high-precision 3D models of real-world objects. It works like this: a 3D scanner takes multiple snapshots of an object. The shots are then fused into a 3D model, an exact three-dimensional copy of the object, which you can rotate and view from different angles on your computer.
3D printing cost, how we calculate
We consider a number of factors when we calculate the price for example the material used such as PLA, Carbon based, Wood based also volume of object, amount of used material, dimensions of the object and how long will it take to be printed.