3D Printers

Advantages of 3D printers

3D printers allow companies to create detailed 3D models which closely replicate the mechanical properties of the CAD designed item. 3D printers offer significant cost savings for companies by eradicating many design errors and prototyping mistake. Companies that in the past would design and create individual model parts to fit together are now able save costs and time by creating a single print 3D model in-house. Previously, outsourcing to modeling companies would incur high cost and significant production time. Today this is not the case

3D printers assists companies in creating 3D models quickly, especially in the world of movies where multiple models are required to quickly create a tangible story. Today, product designers use 3D printers to quickly realize in 3D their concepts and designs clearly and with minimal cost. Engineers can design and create structures faster and locate flaws much earlier by using a 3D printer in-house.

Types of 3D printers

There are many types of 3D printers currently marketed to consumers. One type of 3D printer" is RepRap. This is a small desktop 3D printer that can be used to print plastic items. RepRap prints using a plastic composite which is quick but not durable?

Other types of 3D printers are made from Z corp. This company offers four different kinds of 3D printers: the Z printer 310 plus is a entry level product for cost conscious companies, Z printer 350, Z printer 450 and Z printer 650 which can meet any of the demanding needs in engineering and design.

One of the most popular 3D printers is manufactured by Stratasy. The 3D printer, “Dimension uPrint” sold over 1,000 units in its first year. The company has added more features to all of its 3D printers and is hoping to duplicate last year's success.

Objet Geometries is one of the leading companies producing 3D printers. This company has been a pioneering leader in 3D printing for years. Objet Geometries develops and manufactures 3D printers all over the world. The Objet Eden family and Alaris30 Desktop 3D printers are both very affordable. Objet Geometries' PolyJet Matrix 3D printers are the only multi-material 3D printing processors on the planet.

All of these different types of 3D printers" need to be used in conjunction with a CAD software system and offer a low cost alternative to other rapid prototyping methods. 3D printers are gaining popularity quickly and the trend is predicted to continue in coming years with prices falling and quality improving.