How 3D Printing Works
3D printing builds objects by stacking material layer by layer.
- 3D printing begins with a digital design created using specialized computer-aided design (CAD) software.
- The printer reads the design and “slices” it into hundreds or thousands of thin layers.
- The printer heats up plastic filament (or other materials) and lays it down one layer at a time.
- As each layer cools and hardens, the object slowly takes shape.
- The most common 3D printing method is called Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM).
Materials and Uses of 3D Printing
3D printers can utilize various materials to create a wide range of impressive objects.
- Common materials include plastics such as PLA and ABS, metals, resins, and even food products like chocolate.
- Engineers and designers use 3D printing to make prototypes of new inventions.
- In medicine, 3D printers are used to create prosthetic limbs, dental implants, and even models of organs.
- Some industries use 3D printing to create custom tools, airplane parts, or car parts.
- Scientists are even experimenting with 3D printing houses and human tissues!
Fun Facts
Here are some interesting facts about 3D printing:
- The first working 3D printer was invented in 1983 by Chuck Hull.
- Some 3D printers can print with chocolate, sugar, or even pancake batter!
- NASA has tested 3D printers in space to build tools on the International Space Station.
- The world’s largest 3D-printed building is over 6,900 square feet and is located in Dubai.
Review
Let’s quickly recap what we learned about 3D printing:
- What do 3D printers build objects out of? Thin Layers
- What is the most common type of 3D printing? FDM
- What software helps design 3D printable objects? CAD
- What material is often used for 3D printing? Plastics
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