

It’s helpful to understand the vernacular associated with the 3D printing process before diving into the wide world of additive manufacturing. However, 3D printing gained traction and is now being integrated into several industries. As with any new technology, many people saw 3D printing as only possible in science fiction. For example, some 3D printers use a heated material, like plastic, to create a layer on top of other layers, which eventually stacks up in three-dimensional space to create an object.ģD printing was introduced in the late 1980s but didn’t draw serious attention until the 1990s. Essentially, the 3D printer uses a digital blueprint to mold a physical product. It takes a solid object and then carves or reduces it into the ideal design. Unlike traditional subtractive processes, 3D printing is an additive process. What is 3D Printing?ģD printing, also known as additive manufacturing, is printing a 3D object from a digital design. This article discusses the fundamentals of 3D printing to help you go from dream to done in no time. 3D printing helps bring that dream to fruition. 3D printers are as versatile as ever with various features, materials, and applicable 3D software packages like Autodesk Fusion 360.ĭesigners typically have a design (or dream) in mind to begin. Industrial designers often use 3D printing to create prototype scale models to test their design’s form, function, and fit.

3D printing isn’t just a futuristic dream anymore.

Whether you are an up-and-coming college student or a veteran engineer, learning or revisiting the fundamentals of three-dimensional (3D) printing is extremely valuable. Learn about important terminology you should know, 3D printers, and extremely fast cloud CAD software. C heck out this comprehensive guide to 3D printing and 3D modeling basics.
