What is 3D Printing?
3D printing is a technology that enables the creation of three-dimensional objects by using a computer-generated digital model. The process involves slicing the digital model into thin layers and then feeding that data into a 3D printer. The printer then builds the object layer by layer, typically using a variety of materials such as plastics, metals, and even food. 3D printing technology has revolutionised the way we approach design, prototyping, and manufacturing. It allows for the creation of complex and customised shapes that would be difficult or impossible to produce using traditional manufacturing methods. 3D printing has found applications in a wide range of industries, from aerospace and automotive to healthcare and fashion. It is also used in education and hobbyist settings, where it is used to create everything from toys to household items.
What is PLA?
PLA (Polylactic Acid) filament is a type of 3D printing material that is widely used in the field of additive manufacturing. It is a biodegradable thermoplastic that is derived from renewable resources, such as cornstarch, sugarcane, or tapioca root. PLA filament is popular among 3D printing enthusiasts because it is easy to use and produces high-quality prints. It has a low melting point, which means that it can be printed at lower temperatures than other 3D printing materials, making it a good choice for beginners or those with limited experience in 3D printing. PLA filament is available in a wide range of colors and finishes, including matte, glossy, metallic, and translucent. It can also be blended with other materials to create new properties and characteristics, such as increased flexibility or strength. Overall, PLA filament is a versatile and environmentally friendly material that is well-suited for a variety of 3D printing applications, from prototyping to creating finished products.
What is PETG?
PETG (Polyethylene Terephthalate Glycol) is a type of thermoplastic polyester that is commonly used in the manufacturing of plastic products. It is a clear, strong, and flexible material that is resistant to impact, chemicals, and UV light. PETG is also food safe, making it an ideal material for use in the packaging and storage of food. PETG is a member of the polyester family, which includes PET (Polyethylene Terephthalate) and PBT (Polybutylene Terephthalate). PETG is a modified version of PET that contains an additional glycol component, which improves its durability and impact resistance. PETG can be easily molded into a variety of shapes and sizes using injection molding, extrusion, or thermoforming processes. It is used in a wide range of applications, including packaging, signage, point-of-purchase displays, medical equipment, and 3D printing. PETG is also recyclable, making it an environmentally friendly option for plastic manufacturing.
What is Resin printing?
Resin 3D printing, also known as stereolithography (SLA) 3D printing, is a type of additive manufacturing technology that uses liquid photopolymer resin to create three-dimensional objects.The process begins by using a computer-aided design (CAD) software to create a 3D digital model of the desired object. This model is then sliced into thin layers by specialised software, which generates a series of 2D images that can be printed layer by layer. The liquid resin is placed in a vat and then selectively cured using a light source such as a laser or a projector that projects the 2D images onto the surface of the resin. The light causes the resin to solidify and harden, layer by layer, until the object is fully formed. Once the printing process is complete, the object is removed from the vat and rinsed in a solvent to remove any uncured resin. The object is then cured further under UV light to strengthen and solidify it. Resin 3D printing produces high-quality, detailed objects with smooth surface finishes and intricate geometries. It is commonly used in applications such as prototyping, jewelry making, dental and medical applications, and creating figurines and other art objects.