3D printing has gained enormous importance in recent years and has become a revolutionary manufacturing technology. Good entry-level models today cost just between 200 and 500 Euros, a price at which almost anyone can consider buying a 3D printer. As a result, more and more 3D printers are finding their way into private households. But how does 3D printing work and what do you need to consider? In this blog post, we address beginners with no prior knowledge who want to familiarize themselves with the topic. We explain how 3D printing works and help you take your first steps into this fascinating world.
And at the end of the post, we have a little surprise for you 😉
To get started in the world of three-dimensional prints, it's best to start with something small, like a few pretty little boats. For large and complex models, gain some experience first.[/caption]
Your first models were a complete success and you would like to delve deeper into the world of 3D printing?
How does 3D printing work?
3D printing is also known as an additive manufacturing method. Unlike other manufacturing methods where materials are removed or reshaped, 3D printing adds material to create the desired object. This process allows three-dimensional objects to be built – or printed – layer by layer. 1. It all starts with the model At the beginning of 3D printing is a 3D model that is to be printed. There are several ways to create this model. A common method is to create it using CAD (Computer-Aided Design) software, which is also available for beginners. You can find more about this here on our blog: What is CAD software and is it for me? You can also generate your model for printing by 3D scanning a physical object. 2. The model is digitally broken down - into individual printable layers Once the model is created, it is loaded into special software called a slicer. This software breaks down the model into a multitude of horizontal layers. The whole thing is processed so that the layers can then be printed one after another. 3. The model is printed During the printing process, the selected printing material is heated and pressed out through a nozzle. In technical jargon, this is called "extruding." The nozzle moves precisely over the print bed and deposits the material layer by layer. In this way, the object is gradually built up or printed. 4. Granular, very small-scale models are possible The layers are often applied very thinly, in the range of 0.1 to 0.3 millimeters. Depending on the printer and the set print quality, this value can, of course, be adjusted. Because the layers are very thin, complex geometric shapes and structures can be created that would often be difficult or impossible to produce with conventional manufacturing methods.Which material should I use?
Depending on what you want to print, various materials are used. The most common ones are:- PLA (Polylactide): one of the most commonly used materials for 3D printing. It is usually processed at a temperature of 180-230 degrees.
- ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene): a robust and durable material suitable for a wide range of applications.
- PETG (Polyethylene Terephthalate Glycol): a thermoplastic polymer that offers a good combination of strength, toughness, and transparency.
- TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane): TPU is a flexible filament that can be bent and stretched without breaking.
- Nylon: is a very strong and durable material, well-suited for technical applications.
- Wood filament: suitable for printing objects with a wood-like appearance.
What are the first steps?
Are you curious and now want to create your first 3D prints privately? Here is a quick step-by-step guide on what you need to do: from buying the printer to checking your first print. [caption id="attachment_146176" align="alignleft" width="1280"] To get started in the world of three-dimensional prints, it's best to start with something small, like a few pretty little boats. For large and complex models, gain some experience first.[/caption]
1. Step: Selecting a suitable 3D printer
Research different 3D printer models and choose one that meets your requirements and budget. Factors such as print quality, print size, material compatibility, and heated bed are particularly important. However, as a beginner, you should prioritize user-friendliness.2. Step: Procurement of printing materials
As a beginner, we recommend starting with PLA. Make sure you have enough filament in the right color for your project.3. Step: Installation and setup of the 3D printer
Follow the manufacturer's instructions to properly assemble and set up your 3D printer. Calibrate the printer according to the instructions to ensure it functions correctly.4. Step: Selecting a 3D model
Choose a simple 3D model for your first print. If you are familiar with CAD, create a model here or download a corresponding file from an online database. The first project is just for familiarization.5. Step: Preparing the 3D model
Load the selected 3D model into your slicing software. Adjust the print settings such as layer thickness, infill, and print speed to your requirements. Preview the model to ensure everything is correct.6. Step: Starting the print job
Load the filament correctly into the printer. Start the print job and take the time to observe the first print. This ensures that everything runs smoothly.7. Step: Removing the printed object
After the printing process is complete, carefully remove the printed 3D model from the print bed. Clean the object. Check the printed object for any errors or imperfections.8. Step: After the print is before the print
Take notes about the printing process to learn from possible mistakes in future projects. Feel free to print the same model again and experiment with different settings. Don't be afraid to change one or two functions. Do the test and also change the materials and look at the result again. With each print, you gain valuable experience, learn, and improve.
Further information
Your first models were a complete success and you would like to delve deeper into the world of 3D printing?
- Are you already an expert and want to become a 3D printing expert and learn everything there is to know about it?
- Have you remembered the surprise at the beginning of this article and are curious what it might be?
