🚚 FREE WORLDWIDE SHIPPING 🚚
0 Cart
Added to Cart
    You have items in your cart
    You have 1 item in your cart
      Total

      3D Blog — 3D Printer

      4 Criteria for Selecting the Right 3D Printing Filament

      4 Criteria for Selecting the Right 3D Printing Filament

      4 Criteria for Selecting the Right 3D Printing Filament

      by Olivia Hooper

      The development in filaments has impacted 3D printing a lot. It has changed the way users used to depend on technology. With more options and a variety of properties that these materials exhibit, 3D printing has gained trust from almost every niche in existence. One can utilize 3D printing for numerous needs and requirements. Depending on the results one desires in terms of physical appearance, internal characteristics and a lot of other factors, one can choose the right 3D printing filament for best results.

      Among all the types of additive manufacturing technologies, FDM uses filament for creating models. The number of filaments is huge and it is increasing with time. Apart from a few of the standard ones, there are many advanced filaments that are used for specific printing jobs. Hence, understanding the reason which differentiates these filaments from one another is very important when choosing a material for your printing needs.

      When picking the filaments, the selection process is broken down into several factors. With a few basic tips, one can make an informed decision when buying a 3D printing filament.

      Look for 3D Printer’s Instruction Manual

      3D Printing Materials: Filaments ;

      If you haven’t found the 3D printer of your choice, you must know that 3D printers are available for all budgets. If you have purchased the one like, you must find out what the obligations regarding printing filament that you must abide to. To be precise, every 3D Printer comes with a note about the kind of filaments that it allows. Some only works with PLA or ABS. However, others support multiple filaments. Again, few companies only permit their proprietary filaments and others let you work with any third-party filaments. Looking at what your printer says should be the first thing you should look for. Otherwise, you may end up damaging your 3D Printer. And, trust this, these machines aren’t cheap. You must ensure you follow the suggestions exactly as mentioned, especially if it is about the filament you are planning to feed to your machine.

      Looking at the flip side, if the company is only recommending and not making it a necessity, you can definitely try other brands. However, you must be aware of the nozzle diameter and other specifications before placing the order. Like it or not, the reviews of other customers help a lot. Try reading a lot about the experiences of other users with different filaments and then decided for good.

      Which Filament Fits your Application

      3D Printer Filament Types and Applications ; Source: allthat3d.com

      Every filament offers unique characteristics, surface finish, appearance, etc. Learning about each one of them may be daunting at first. However, as your experience will grow, you would be in a better place to make the decision quick and correct right away. By then, you may have to read about the filaments and their properties and the required 3D printing settings many times.

      Some filaments are flexible and others are tough. Few aren’t very durable and others go on for a lifetime without a problem. Some are cheap and other very expensive. What decides which one is the best for your models is the properties that you want in your final product.

      For example, if you are wishing your item to be flexible, you must choose ABS. However, for a tough and durable finish, you can go with PETG. However, if the application requires a biodegradable filament, PLA would be of huge help.

      Find the Right Company

      3D Printing Filament Types Infographic ; Source: 3dsupplyguys.com

      After you have decided which type of filament you would be using for your 3D prints, it is time to purchase them. Even if that makes it look scarier, finding a trustable company would be like rolling from one side to another, if not researched well. Narrowing down the list of manufacturers may be time taking at first, however, it would be less likely for you to jump into the wrong ones.

      The first thing that you must look for the years of existence of the company. While newer ones aren’t always bad, it is wise to play safe when you are yourself novice. Depending on the companies that have been around for some time and have gathered a large customer base to back their product, it would be safer.

      Secondly, the company must be open about what they offer. And, should tell everything about the pros and cons of the materials they sell. You can cross review the claims with the help of the feedback from existing customers.

      In addition, you can also go with the companies that offer free samples. Although this is provided in a few special cases, mostly, if the probable order is high. If you are getting that option, never shy away from grabbing it.

      Test the Filament

      Good 3D Printing Filament vs Bad 3D Printing Filament ; Source: bootsindustries.com

      Nothing is more convincing than seeing it for yourself. If you have got the sample filament, go ahead. If not, the order in a small unit. Because you do not want to end up with something that you may not be used later. Even if smaller units are expensive, it is better than getting it for lower unit cost and not using it at all. So, depending on your final decision on the print results from your 3D printer.

      Most of the time, you may get satisfactory results in the first attempt, after all, you did a huge groundwork to get there. However, if not, try others on the list. You must find the one that matches your expectations.

      In case, you wish to change the filament type, try asking for a sample for other material types. Not every company has the best filaments in all the categories. So, check what your company has to offer in case of a change of filament type and proceed as you did the first time. 

      The Conclusion

      To break this down in a simpler term, you must start by exploring your machine, knowing your filament and understanding the possibilities these entails. Once you have a lucid vision of what you can achieve when creating models with the right 3D printing filament, your theories would put into play, in the right direction. So, work for it and attain as much knowledge as you can.    

      10 ways that 3D printing will change the world

      10 ways that 3D printing will change the world

      3D printing technology has already revolutionized the business world, and it isn’t done yet! In a matter of a few short years, 3D printing will further change the way we work and do things. Here are a few things in our lives that will change as a result of 3D printing.

      1 – Better education

      The process of learning will be greatly improved with 3D printing technology. Subjects like technology, engineering, and health sciences that were previously very difficult to understand will be made much more simple. As technological developments and streamlining in production makes 3D printers more affordable, more schools will be able to purchase them.

      2 – Superior design

      3D printing will allow for faster and superior design, whether it is for vehicles, clothing, or even food for consumption. Since it takes less time, manufacturers will be able to put more time into other things, like streamlining the production process or bettering the design itself. As a result, products will be released to the market more quickly than before.

      3 – Improved quality of life

      People suffering from medical conditions who require implants, prosthetics, and other such artificial parts will be able to improve their quality of life with 3D printing. Whatever they need can be custom printed exactly according to their requirements.

      4 – Less wastage

      There will be significant improvements when it comes to factory efficiency. Since 3D printing uses additive manufacturing rather than subtractive manufacturing, there will be less waste materials produced. Each factory will also require fewer workers to keep things up and running.

      5 – Copyright issues

      3D printing makes it easier to duplicate another object. As a result, there are sure to be issues regarding copyright. Intellectual property laws will therefore have to shift to entertain new technology.

      6 – Rapid prototyping

      Bringing to life an idea in your head will be easier than ever with 3D printing. Prototyping is more efficient than ever, and product engineers will therefore have more time to concentrate on the functionality of the product and make sure it is working well.

      7 – Dental care

      Taking care of your teeth will soon be effortless. If you need to fix a tooth, a digital camera can capture your damaged tooth and a 3D printer will produce a replacement in no time. The process for teeth replacement, veneers, crowns, dentures, and a great many other things will be greatly eased.

      8 – Inexpensive housing

      Constructing parts for houses will soon be more inexpensive and better for the environment. China has already begun to use 3D printing in this way, putting together inexpensive homes with reused materials.

      9 – Previously impossible products

      Some items are impossible or close to impossible to produce without 3D printing. Whether it is because of the complexity of the material or the intricacy of the design, 3D printing can manufacture products that were previously deemed unattainable.

      10 – A new industry

      It’s only a matter of time before it becomes commonplace to see a 3D printing shop at the local mall. Soon, people will be purchasing custom items online, and collecting them at the local print shop, who will receive the designs on the internet.

      How 3D printing is improving the world

      How 3D printing is improving the world

      There have been several technological breakthroughs over the past few decades that have been able to shake the world. One of the more iconic devices that was developed is the 3D printer. This device is able to build 3D objects according to instructions in a digital file.

      There are several types of 3D printers, each for different purposes. They use materials such as plastic, metal, and ceramics, among others. You could even print food!

      Here are five major things that 3D printing is doing for the world:

      1 – Making education easier

      3D printers will become common classroom equipment in no time. Today, teachers are increasingly using 3D printing to aid their teaching. It can be used for a variety of subjects, from history to science.

      Students often struggle to understand concepts and things that they cannot see and feel. With 3D printing, they will be able to touch and hold bones, historical artifacts, kidney models, and other things that are hard to get a hold of. They will have a greater understanding of previously vague concepts. Kids may be inspired by 3D printing and have an interest in physics and engineering, too.

      2 – Revolutionizing the medical field

      Medical care will be improved by 3D printing, and it will probably be a lot cheaper, too. It will be easier than ever to print prosthetics, bones, and other things custom-fitted to the patient. Not to mention that researchers will benefit from the ease with which they can build models to make their research go faster. There are even 3D bioprinters that can print human tissues, and soon will be producing custom organs for those who need replacements.

      3D printing has the ability to build detailed, intricate items. They can be made to be especially lightweight if you choose the right material. Soon, prosthetics will be much more comfortable and will fit the patient perfectly.

      3 – Making dining on demand a reality

      Why cook when you could 3D print dinner? This technology makes it possible for you to customize your meal. In a couple years, there may even be restaurants with nothing but 3D printers and ingredients. On-demand dining used to be just a pipe dream from Back to the Future, but it’s soon becoming reality.

      4 – Reducing shipping pollution

      Shipping goods across the country requires major use of energy, gas, and transportation. Later, when people are able to 3D print items in their locale, there won’t be nearly as much items being shipped to and fro. Therefore, there will be less ships, trucks, and planes carrying products that still do need to be shipped, resulting in reduced amounts of pollution.

      5 – Expediting construction

      In no time, 3D printing will be used to print larger objects – buildings, even. It won’t be long before people design structures using software and then print the parts with a 3D printer. You won’t need a construction crew the size that you previously would have needed to build your home.

      As of now, most people don’t have the technical skill to manufacture homes that have structural integrity. That being said, it is already commonplace for smaller items such as floor panels and sockets to be produced using these revolutionary printers.

      How 3D printing is changing manufacturing

      How 3D printing is changing manufacturing

      The introduction of 3D printing has revolutionized the business world. There are quite a few ways that it has changed many industries, and if you want to find out, you are in the right place!

      The following six points will describe how 3D printing has transformed the manufacturing industry:

      1 – Double the rate of production

      Studies have shown that 3D printing will enable manufacturers to produce items at twice the rate that they are currently able. This will help them to reach their production objectives without incurring any additional costs per unit.

      Additionally, manufacturers will benefit from not needing to import materials from other places. Without shipping fees, they will have cash available to invest in 3D printing in their own plants. As a result, they will not only lower costs, but increase production.

      2 – Produce unique goods

      3D printing gives manufacturers the opportunity to make unique goods. This is a plus for customers, who often want more personalized products. Companies will be able to produce everything from unique shoes to custom cars.

      3D developers have affirmed that in the future, it will be possible to 3D print via an app on your mobile device. At the same time, professional designers will be advancing industrial design, making it easier and better than ever. 3D printing is a great way to increase your revenue by minimizing costs and increasing sales.

      3 – Enable creativity

      Innovative minds will love 3D printing. This technology allows them to widen their horizons and bring their wildest designs to life. Whether a mobile device or a special type of chair is in the works, it will be easier for creatives to perfectly generate their designs.

      4 – Sidestep copyright problems

      In any industry, it is essential to protect your intellectual property. Many companies have lawyers on speed dial to help them deal with any complications regarding copyright.

      With 3D printing, every producer owns their design. Therefore, legal problems will be quickly dissolved because of the clear lines that this technology draws when it comes to ownership of design.

      5 – Helps mass manufacturers

      Nations that are largely reliant on the manufacturing industry can greatly benefit from 3D technology. China, for one, manufactures a huge amount of products to be sold all over the world. This technology will allow them to produce even more, and at costs that are affordable to citizens within their nation as well.

      6 – Revolutionize other industries

      Though we have mainly focused on the manufacturing industry, every industry will be changed by 3D printing. There are constantly updates on new printers or types of material that are focused on the needs of other fields.

      The healthcare industry, for one, is now benefiting from being able to 3D print prosthetics and artificial body parts. Soon, other industries will be able to take advantage of this awesome technology.

      At The 3D Printer Store, we sell high-quality, affordable 3D printers & parts to help you on your journey of innovation – shop today!

       

      Why 3D printing is changing the world

      Why 3D printing is changing the world

      As the benefits become more and more prominent, 3D printing becomes more of a big deal. Technology has advanced and prices drop as machines become more widely offered. It may be time to clear out an extra space in your office for a machine that can generate what you wish on your demand.

       

      What is 3D printing actually useful for? Find out in the following article.

       

      3D printing does not refer to the printing, per se. Rather, it is a combination of technologies that ultimately produce a three-dimensional object. Before any actual printing can take place, computer-aided design (CAD) software must be used to specify the size and details of what is to be printed. That software produces instructions that the 3D printer uses to then make the object come to life, putting layer after layer of material on top of each other to formulate what the directions have instructed it to.

       

      Although 3D printing seems like a relatively recent thing, the first rapid prototyping machine was actually used commercially in the late 1980s. Until now, they are still being used in commercial production shops. The first advantage that was recognized was the decrease in time that it took to manufacture plastic prototypes in shop. However, we now recognize that a huge benefit is that these machines are used for additive manufacturing – instead of carving away at resources, you can build it up and produce less waste.

       

      With the development of this technology, 3D printing is able to bring to life structures that were previously impossible – or at least very challenging – to produce. Airbus, for instance, is able to manufacture lighter parts for planes while still maintaining strength and structural integrity. Individuals missing a limb or two can also utilize 3D printing by being able to get custom prosthetics that fit better at a cheaper price.

       

      A huge perk of 3D printing is the fact that less resources are wasted. Conventional manufacturing often results in up to 90% of raw material being left behind. However, additive manufacturing builds up from the bottom, and even is able to reuse leftover bits. Companies also take advantage of the “just-in-time” capability that 3D printers are able to provide. Rather than stocking up on huge amounts of inventory, they can simply produce a part that they need right in the shop.

       

      Recycling enthusiasts will rejoice at the 3D printer’s ability to reuse materials. If you break or no longer want an object you have printed, you can just reuse the material to build another one.

       

      The main expenditures of 3D printing is the machine and the materials. There are 3D printers that are able to build objects out of plastic, glass, wood, food, and even cells. However, a cheaper basic one may only be able to build from plastic.

       

      Mass manufacturers are sure to suffer a huge blow as soon as 3D printers start entering the homes of everyday people. As it becomes easier and easier to simply produce things yourself at home, the industry will be compelled to make major updates to their business models.