3D printing involves the use of 3D printers to build various objects using raw materials. 3D printers are equipped with a nozzle in which the raw material or filament is extruded on a layer-by-layer printing layer to build the object from top to down.
There are several types of 3D printers, but they all work according to the same method that focuses on 3 basic steps. Here are the 3 main stages in 3D printing.
1. Preparation
The first stage of 3D printing is preparation, which is also called the preprocessing stage. It involves designing the object in a computer program and positioning and preparing the 3D printer used. Before you can start 3D printing, you must project an object on to a computer program.
Computer Aided Design (CAD) allows production companies to build models of digital objects that are then saved and transferred to a 3D printer for processing.
Manufacturers design the object in a CAD program, then transfer the CAD file to a 3D printer. This stage covers CAD design and other tasks associated with training – it is determined what to print with the 3D printer, what material to use, what 3D printer to use, etc.
2. Construction
The second stage of 3D printing is construction. The 3D printer will build the object by extruding the material from a nozzle. As the material is extruded from the nozzle, it is deposited on a printing bed.
The construction stage involves completing the object. The 3D printer will move and extrude the raw material based on the specifications of the CAD file used. This stage covers the production of an object, because the 3D printer extrudes the material from a nozzle on a printing bed.
3. Finishing
The third and final stage of 3D printing depends on the type of printer and printed object. This finishing step may require removing support structures. Objects are often constructed with stands so that they do not fall. After the printing process is complete, the only thing left to do is remove the stand.
This third stage may also involve finishing the surface of the printed object. If the printed object has a rough or grainy surface, it may be necessary to grind it for a good smoothing. Also, this third stage includes other necessary post-production retouching.
If you need 3D services to print different objects with different raw materials, feel free to contact us. We look forward to each new collaboration proposal.