How To Select Between 3D Printing Processes for Manufacturing Industry (Part 1)

3D Printing Technologies

Cost-effective and considerably more efficient than conventional manufacturing, the use of 3D print in manufacturing has helped to drastically reduce manufacturing lead time. However, it is essential to choose the right process of 3D printing for your unique manufacturing needs.

The ISO/ASTM 52900 Standard, formulated in 2015, has standardized terminology and classifications for the 3D printing technologies. Of the seven processes listed, Fused Deposition Modelling (FDM) and Stereolithography (SLA) have turned out to be the most affordable and easily available ones.

For specifically high-end polymer applications, Selective Laser Sintering, or SLS 3D printing, and Material Jetting (MJ) is the more preferred choices among manufacturers. On the other hand, Selective Laser Melting (SLM) and Direct Metal Laser Sintering (DMLS) are popularly used for printing 3D metal parts.

The image used for illustration purposes. Zeal 3D Printing is not the owner or creator of the image. (Image Source: Pixabay)

Selection Criteria for Online 3D Printing

The primary consideration while choosing 3D printing services in Melbourne, often comes down to the capabilities unique to each 3D printing technology. Once you have covered the basics, move on to evaluating the following aspects of your project:

1. Dimensional accuracy: This means determining the level of detail you want in your end parts and deciding which 3D print process can help you obtain that.
2. Build size: A single printing process can produce only a maximum number of dimensions of a part, at a given time. This typical build size may exceed the maximum capacity of a 3D printer, in which case the components can be split up, to be assembled at a later stage.
3. Support structures: Determining whether these are needed or not influences design freedom. For example, SLS 3D printing services require no support, while FDM 3D printing can make do with dissolvable support. These make them ideal for producing free-form structures.

Another way to decide on technology for online 3D printing in Melbourne is the inherent advantages, applicability, and drawbacks of the technology itself.

• Parts produced using SLS 3D printing usually display superior physical properties. Also, parts with complex geometry are easier to create with SLS technology. However, FDM 3D printing in Melbourne proves to be more cost-effective.
• SLA and Material Jetting are both suited for parts that require aesthetic qualities. However, Material Jetting has superior surface finish and dimensional accuracy, although it comes at a higher cost.
• DMLS/SLM is ideal for metal 3D printing. Parts produced with these technologies possess superior mechanical properties and dimensional accuracy. However, Binder Jetting is a much cheaper alternative and the only option for large metal parts.

The image used for illustration purposes. Zeal 3D Printing is not the owner or creator of the image. (Image Source: eMotionTech on Unsplash)

Availing 3D Printing Services for Manufacturing

The prospects for 3D printing in Australia is improving as manufacturing businesses increasingly realize the advantages of incorporating it into their processes. Zeal 3D printing is a pioneering service provider for online 3D printing in Melbourne. No matter your requirement – SLS, SLM, or DMLS, or FDM 3D printing in Melbourne, Zeal offers economical and risk-free solutions.

Zeal: 3D Printing with a Difference

Zeal 3D printing uses only the most advanced additive manufacturing technologies, keeping our client’s requirements at the forefront. Our solutions are not just affordable and efficient, but also environmentally friendly. The dedicated team of engineers and designers is what makes Zeal one of the most trusted names in 3D printing in Melbourne.