3dprinting Quotes

“Stereolithography (SLA) is an additive manufacturing process that belongs to the Vat Photopolymerization family. In SLA, an object is created by selectively curing a polymer resin layer-by-layer using an ultraviolet (UV) laser beam. The materials used in SLA are photosensitive thermoset polymers that come in a liquid form.

SLA has many common characteristics with Direct Light Processing (DLP), another Vat Photopolymerization 3D printing technology. For simplicity, the two technologies can be treated as equals.

A laser beam is directed in the X-Y axes across the surface of the resin according to the 3D data supplied to the machine (the .stl file), whereby the resin hardens precisely where the laser hits the surface. Once the layer is completed, the platform within the vat drops down by a fraction (in the Z axis) and the subsequent layer is traced out by the laser. The resin that is not touched by the laser remains in the vat and can be reused. This continues until the entire object is completed and the platform can be raised out of the vat for removal.


Support structure is always required in SLA. Support structures are printed in the same material as the part and must be manually removed after printing. The orientation of the part determines the location and amount of support. It is recommended that the part is oriented so that so visually critical surfaces do not come in contact with the support structures”
― Locanam 3D Printing

“FDM (Fused Deposition Modeling) 3D printing is a type of additive manufacturing technology that works by extruding thermoplastic filament material layer by layer to build up a three-dimensional object. Here are some details defining FDM 3D printing:

Process: FDM 3D printing involves melting a thermoplastic filament, usually ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) or PLA (Polylactic Acid), and extruding it through a heated nozzle. The nozzle moves along a predetermined path, depositing the material layer by layer to create the desired object.

Materials: FDM printers primarily use thermoplastic materials, which are available in various colors and types, each with its own properties such as strength, flexibility, and heat resistance. Common materials include ABS, PLA, PETG, TPU, and more.

Layer Resolution: FDM printers have a layer resolution, which refers to the thickness of each layer of material deposited during printing. The layer resolution determines the level of detail and surface finish achievable in the printed object. Lower layer heights result in finer details but increase printing time.

Build Volume: This refers to the maximum size of the object that can be printed in terms of length, width, and height. FDM printers come in various sizes, offering different build volumes to accommodate different project requirements.

Support Structures: FDM printers often require support structures for overhanging or complex geometries. These supports are printed alongside the object and later removed manually or with tools after printing is complete.

Heated Build Plate: Many FDM printers feature a heated build plate, which helps prevent warping and improves adhesion between the first layer of the print and the build surface. A heated build plate is particularly useful when printing materials like ABS.

Dual Extrusion: Some FDM printers support dual extrusion, allowing for the simultaneous use of two different materials or colors during printing. This capability enables more complex prints with multiple colors or materials.

Post-Processing: After printing, FDM-printed objects may require post-processing to improve surface finish or functionality. This can include sanding, painting, smoothing with acetone (for ABS), or other finishing techniques.

FDM 3D printing is widely used in various industries, including prototyping, manufacturing, education, and hobbyist applications, due to its relatively low cost, ease of use, and versatility.”
― Locanam 3D Printing

“Why Choose SLS 3D Printing Over FDM 3D Printing?

Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) technology offers an accessible entry point into the world of 3D printing, particularly advantageous for individuals with limited budgets. Its affordability stems from the straightforward principle it operates on: melting a plastic filament and precisely positioning it to layer by layer to form objects. This simplicity has made FDM the most popular printing technology, flooding the market with cost-effective desktop printers capable of producing objects quickly.

In contrast, Selective Laser Sintering (SLS) technology enables 3D printing by selectively sintering sections of successive layers of powder using a powerful laser beam, without fully liquefying the material. Notably, this process eliminates the need for support materials, as unsintered powder surrounds the printed object, facilitating the creation of intricate and interconnected forms.”
― Locanam 3D Printing

“The Process of SLS in 3D Printing

The Selective Laser Sintering process resembles that of other powder bed fusion technologies in the following ways:
A designer produces a 3D model using a Computer-Aided Design (CAD) program.


The design is split into thin (2D) layers.


The split design is sent to the SLS printer.


A leveling roller spreads a thin layer of powdered material across the printer’s build platform.


A CO2 laser traces a cross-section of the material, heating and fusing it.


Once a layer is complete, the build platform is lowered to allow space for the next layer of powder.


Unused material is recycled after each layer is finished.


The SLS process is repeated, building layer-on-layer until the part is completed.
During the printing process, SLS parts are encompassed by unsintered powder. This extra powder supports the part during printing, removing the need for support structures.”
― Locanam 3D Printing

“FDM (Fused Deposition Modeling) printers There is no hard and fast classification of the FDM 3D printers
Cartesian 3D Printers: These are the most common type, operating on a straightforward Cartesian coordinate system with linear rails guiding movement along the X, Y, and Z axes. They are recognized for their simplicity and reliability.


Delta 3D Printers: Delta printers employ a triangular configuration of three arms attached to moving carriages at the printer's apex. The print head hangs from these carriages, executing precise movements to craft the intended object. Delta printers excel in speed and consistency, particularly in producing tall items.


CoreXY 3D Printers: CoreXY printers utilize a distinctive belt-driven mechanism to maneuver the print head across the X and Y axes. This design separates the print head's motion from that of the build platform, resulting in swifter and more accurate prints. Enthusiasts favor CoreXY printers for their speed and precision.


Polar 3D Printers: Polar printers feature a circular build platform and a print head that moves both radially and vertically. This configuration facilitates continuous rotation of the print bed, enabling the creation of objects with intricate geometric shapes. Polar printers are commonly employed for crafting artistic and sculptural pieces.

SCARA 3D Printers: SCARA (Selective Compliance Articulated Robot Arm) printers utilize a robotic arm mechanism to navigate the print head in a two-dimensional plane. This design offers rapid and precise movement, making SCARA printers ideal for producing small, intricate objects with exceptional accuracy.

Each variant of FDM 3D printer has its own strengths and is tailored to diverse applications, spanning from hobbyist endeavors to industrial-scale manufacturing.”
― Locanam 3D Printing

“Difference Between SLA and DLP 3D Printing

SLA and DLP printing methods differ in various aspects, they share some commonalities. Both processes involve exposing liquid photopolymers to light. They utilize resin tanks and are suitable for crafting intricate small-scale models. Additionally, they can handle a range of materials, including flexible and rigid substances, as well as composites like glass or ceramic blends. However, it's important to note that parts produced by these methods tend to be fragile, susceptible to degradation from sunlight exposure, and prone to warping over time.
Stereolithography (SLA), pioneered in 1984, stands out as one of the most precise 3D printing techniques available today. In contrast to DLP, SLA employs laser technology as its light source. The laser beam traverses the resin tank horizontally, solidifying material layer by layer. There are two main types of SLA machines: those with a top-down laser approach, where a plate descends with each new layer, and those employing a bottom-up laser method, with a platform rising incrementally. SLA achieves exceptionally smooth surfaces and offers a layer thickness ranging from 0.05 to 0.01 mm, enabling the production of objects with incredibly fine details.”
― Locanam 3D Printing

“What is Directed Energy Deposition in 3D Printing

Directed Energy Deposition (DED) is a term that encompasses technologies involving semi-automated powder spraying and wire welding for manufacturing. When applied to 3D shapes, DED is considered an additive manufacturing process. It typically results in a rougher surface compared to Powder Bed Fusion, due to the larger bead sizes and coarser powder used, which often necessitates additional machining.

DED systems generally fall into two categories: deposition systems and hybrid systems that combine a DED head with traditional machining equipment. The main advantages of DED include faster deposition compared to powder bed fusion 3D printing and the ability to create functionally graded material structures, especially when using powder. Additionally, since the feedstock and energy source move together, DED systems can manufacture very large structures, unrestricted by the size limitations of a build box. In some cases, DED can be more effective than traditional manufacturing methods or powder bed fusion.

Most DED systems consist of a deposition head that uses either wire or powder and is mounted on a robot or CNC system. Common energy sources include Arc, Laser, or Electron Beam, with lasers being the most frequently used for powder feedstock. The process involves offline programming to generate a tool path from a sliced CAD file. The motion system then follows this path, depositing material in layers to build the desired shape. DED is compatible with a variety of weldable alloys, such as aluminum, steel, nickel, and titanium. Depending on the chosen alloy and process, shielding gas may be applied locally or within an enclosed environment.”
― Locanam 3D Printing

“What is Binder Jetting in 3D Printing

The binder jetting 3D printing process involves depositing an adhesive binder onto thin layers of powdered material. These materials can be ceramic-based, like glass or gypsum, or metal, such as stainless steel.

During the printing process, the 3D print head moves over the build platform, depositing droplets of binder, similar to how a 2D printer applies ink to paper. Once a layer is completed, the powder bed lowers, and a new layer of powder is spread over the build area. This layering continues until the entire object is printed.

After printing, the parts are in an unfinished, or "green," state and require further post-processing. To enhance the mechanical properties of the parts, an infiltrate substance, such as cyanoacrylate adhesive for ceramics or bronze for metals, is often added. Another method involves placing the green parts in an oven to sinter the material grains together.

Interestingly, the term "3D printing" originally described a process that used inkjet-like heads to deposit binder material onto a powder bed layer by layer.”
― Locanam 3D Printing

“WHAT IS POWDER BED FUSION

Powder Bed Fusion (PBF) stands as a notable Additive Manufacturing (AM) technique, characterized by its layer-by-layer approach to creating objects. With its potential applications across automotive, aerospace, energy sectors, and household appliances, PBF represents a pivotal future manufacturing method. Alongside PBF, other AM methods like Laminated Object Manufacturing, Direct Energy Deposition, Stereolithography (SLA), and Solid Ground Curing (SGC) contribute to the diverse landscape of additive manufacturing.

This overview will focus on the mechanics of the PBF process, particularly highlighting Direct Metal Laser Deposition (DMLS), Selective Laser Sintering (SLS), Selective Laser Melting (SLM), Electron Beam Melting (EBM), and Selective Heat Sintering (SHS). In these techniques, a layer of powder is spread onto a platform, often referred to as the build platform. While SLS, SLM, and DMLS employ lasers as the primary heat source, EBM utilizes an electron beam. SHS, on the other hand, employs a heated thermal head for sintering plastic powders. Among these methods, SLS, DMLS, and SHS are powder-sintering processes, whereas SLM and EBM are powder-melting processes.”
― Locanam 3D Printing