What is a 3D printer? A 3D printer is a device that produces three-dimensional objects from a computer-aided design (CAD) or a digital 3D model created by a 3D printer software.
The process begins with a digital copy of the reference object. The 3D printing design file is then rendered as a sequence of layers in an additive process. A 3D printer filament, usually a thermoplastic filament roll, is fed into the 3D printing head. The 3D printer places layer upon layer of material until the entire three-dimensional object is generated. As 3D printing relies on deposition, it tends to take hours or days to complete depending on the scale and complexity of the product to be made. Several 3D printer units are needed to produce identical items, such as novelty items based on portraits or photos.
Aside from thermoplastic filament, there are a variety of materials used in a custom 3D printing service, including liquid or powdered plastic, metal, and even cement. The technology is also applied on an industrial scale, such as a large format 3D printer used in building more complex structures. The resin 3D printer captures finer details and produces a smoother finish without the visible layers common in 3D printer models using filament. In addition, the resin printer output requires less post-processing work. A commercial or industrial 3D printer can be used in metallic 3D printing to reproduce automotive, mechanical and machine parts that have long been out of production and need to be immediately replaced. For novice users, there are free 3D printer files available to develop their experience in working with 3D printer projects. Prototypes created by professional 3D printing service providers and small 3D printing service businesses are helping accelerate the pace of product development across industries.