3D printing technology was patented in the 1980s, but its popularity is relatively recent. New, promising techniques have been developed and the capabilities of 3D technology have reached a whole new level. However, even to this day, the technique is not known in all circles, and not everyone is aware of what 3D printing is. In today’s article, we will try to explain to you in detail and in an accessible way what 3D printing is and where it is used.

In short, 3D printing is a technique for manufacturing three-dimensional products based on digital models. Regardless of the specific technology, the essence of the process is the gradual layer-by-layer reproduction of objects.
In this process, a special device is used – a 3D printer, which prints with certain types of materials. More details about it are written here. Other names of the technology are rapid prototyping or additive manufacturing. Often the phrase “additive technology” is used in the meaning of “3D technology”.

Stages of 3D printing

To make it clearer to you what 3D printing is, let’s look at the reproduction process step by step. Below are the specific stages of 3D printing. How it works:

  • 3D modeling of the desired object is performed according to certain rules;
  • The file with the digital model is loaded into a slicer program, which generates the control code for the 3D printer;
  • The necessary 3D printing parameters are set;
  • The code is written to a removable storage medium, which is connected to the 3D printer;
  • The 3D model is reproduced.

The reproduction of objects takes place gradually. The selected material is applied layer by layer to the desired shape, forming the finished product. It is worth noting that the possibilities of 3D printing are almost limitless, i.e. anything can be produced. In some technologies for very thin overhanging elements there are supports, thanks to which it is possible to avoid their sagging.

Naturally, this is a very simplified description of the stages of 3D printing, but they give a clear idea of the essence of the technique.