3D Printing
Why in news ?
Researchers from IIT-Mandi have found that the extrusion-based metal additive manufacturing process stands out as the most superior and cost-effective method in comparison to other approaches in metal 3D printing.
Understanding 3D Printing
- 3D printing, also known as additive manufacturing, constructs three-dimensional objects layer by layer using computer-generated designs.
- Unlike conventional manufacturing methods that involve material subtraction, 3D printing is additive.
Applications of 3D Printing
Manufacturing: 3D printing has revolutionized manufacturing by enabling rapid prototyping, reducing production time, and minimizing waste. Complex geometries and intricate designs that were once challenging to create are now achievable with precision.
Healthcare: In the medical field, 3D printing is used to create patient-specific implants, prosthetics, and even organs. Customized medical devices and models for surgical planning enhance patient outcomes.
Aerospace: Aerospace industries utilize 3D printing to manufacture lightweight and durable parts, reducing aircraft weight and fuel consumption. This technology also enables rapid iteration of design improvements.
Advantages of 3D Printing
- Customization: 3D printing allows for individualized and customized products tailored to specific needs or preferences.
- Complex Geometries: The technology can create intricate and complex geometries that would be challenging or impossible to achieve using conventional manufacturing techniques.
How is 3D Printing done?
To carry out 3D printing, a personal computer connected to a 3D printer is required. There is a need to design a 3D model of the required object on computer-aid design (CAD) software and press ‘print’. The 3D printer will make the desired object.
3D printers construct the desired object by using a Layering method/Additive manufacturing Process, opposite of the subtractive manufacturing processes. It builds from the bottom up by piling on layer after layer until the object looks exactly like it was envisioned.
Types of Additive Manufacturing Processes
- Powder Bed Fusion (PBF): Where a thermal source is used to selectively consolidate powdered materials.
- Binder Jetting (BJT): Where liquid binder is selectively deposited to bind powdered materials.
- Directed Energy Deposition (DED): Where feedstock material, either powder or wire, is melted via a focused thermal source as it is deposited.
- Material Extrusion (MEX): Where material is extruded through a nozzle or orifice.
Source – Indian Express