Module 1. 3D printing – Main concepts and uses

In simple terms, 3D Printing is a process for making a 3D object from a three-dimensional digital model. Typically, the process consists in placing layers of a plastic-like material one on top of the other.

There are several different techniques for 3D Printing and we will address them throughout this course. One thing is sure, 3D Printing has brought two fundamental innovations. On the one hand, the manipulation of objects in their digital format (also known as 3D modelling). On the other, the manufacturing of objects in a more democratic and decentralised way.

Through this particular module, we will give you main concepts and uses of 3D printing. Also, the module includes exercises to help cultural heritage professionals create their own resources.

General explanation of 3D Printing

3D printing technology (also known as ‘Additive manufacturing’) involves adding layers of material to create objects. 3D printing has many applications and therefore there are different types of 3D Printers. During this course, we will talk about the more affordable and accessible methods, which are:

FDM – Fused Deposition Modelling or FFF – Fused Filament Fabrication

SLA – Stereolithography

SLS – Selective laser sintering

The different types of 3D printers each employ a different technology that processes different materials in different ways. Perhaps the most common 3D printing process is deposition, which is used by most entry-level 3D printers. This process involves extruding plastics, usually PLA or ABS, in the form of filaments through a heated extruder to form layers and create the specified shape.

Note that there are two complementary processes in 3D printing. One is, 3D modelling, which is the process of creating digital, three-dimensional graphics using design software. The other is 3D printing itself, which evidently requires a 3D model (file) of the object to be printed.

For the printing process, 3D printers use software that slices the 3D model (file) into layers (in most cases 0.01 mm thick or less). Then the printer has instructions to print and trace and built by layer the object.

Once the object is printed, it may need some finishing touches. Removing excess material is a natural part of the process. In addition, some pieces may need to be sanded, varnished, painted or otherwise finished, which is usually done by hand and requires skill and/or time and patience. It goes without saying that there is a bit of a learning curve to operating 3D modelling and printing software. Nevertheless, the possibilities offered by 3D printers are immense and outweigh the latter comments.

Once the object is printed, it may need some finishing touches. Removing excess material is a natural part of the process. In addition, some pieces may need to be sanded, varnished, painted or otherwise finished, which is usually done by hand and requires skill and/or time and patience. It goes without saying that there is a bit of a learning curve to operating 3D modelling and printing software. Nevertheless, the possibilities offered by 3D printers are immense and outweigh the latter comments.

Advantages of 3D printing

Before 3D printing, the typical and most common manufacturing technique was known as ‘subtractive manufacturing’ because, as the name suggests, the process involves the removal of material. Processes such as milling and cutting are subtractive manufacturing techniques. This type of process creates a lot of waste because the leftover of material generally cannot be used for anything else. 3D Printing does not create this waste because the material is only placed where it is needed, the rest is left as empty space.

Layered production allows for much greater flexibility and creativity in the design process. 3D printing speeds up the design and prototyping process considerably. As for the manufacturing process, it is not a problem to create one part at a time or to change the design with each production. Merging the design, prototyping and manufacturing of an object is much more efficient.

As 3D printer prices have come down over the years, some 3D printers are now affordable for the ordinary consumer or small business. In fact, most affordable 3D printers available on the market are tailored to the hobbyist. Therefore, 3D printing is not the answer to every kind of production process.