3D Printing
Over the past 20 years 3D printing has transformed the landscape of manufacturing, and it is now possible to 3D print items that would not be possible to manufacture using traditional processes. Two of the most widely adopted methods of 3D printing are Fused Deposition Modelling (FDM) and Stereolithography (SLA).
FDM operates by carefully extruding melted plastic filament, which is deposited layer by layer, ultimately forming a solid three-dimensional object. This process is particularly popular due to its accessibility and effectiveness for rapid prototyping, which allows designers to quickly create and test their ideas.
In contrast, SLA uses a UV light to precisely cure liquid resin into a solid, hardened plastic form. This process is renowned for producing highly detailed models with exceptionally smooth finishes, making it suitable for applications requiring a greater level of precision.
Both FDM and SLA technologies offer distinct manufacturing advantages, and are used across a diverse cross-section of industry such as aerospace, automotive and healthcare.
The versatility of 3D printing technology also makes it a favourite amongst hobbyists and makers, where it offers the ability to create highly detailed and functional parts which were previously not within their budgets.
Materials
Choosing the correct material for your 3D printing project is critical. Both FDM and SLA processes offer a selection of materials, from basic PLA filaments and standard resins, to advanced materials which offer enhanced properties such as greater strength, flexibility or temperature resistance.
The following is a list of some of the popular materials available for each technology:
FDM Filaments
PLA
Easy to print, rigid, biodegradable, but brittle and low heat resistance.
Used for concept models, visual prototypes.
ABS
Tough, durable, heat and impact resistant, but prone to warping and requires ventilation.
Used for functional prototypes, parts needing high durability.
PETG
Good strength, chemical and temperature resistance, transparent, and can be food safe.
Used for waterproof applications, snap-fit parts, food-safe items.
Nylon
Strong, durable, flexible, and impact-resistant, but complex to print and sensitive to moisture.
Used for wear-resistant parts, functional prototypes, snap-fit joints.
TPU
Flexible, stretchable, impact-resistant, and excellent vibration dampening.
Used for flexible parts, phone cases, vibration-dampening components.
ASA
Similar to ABS but with high UV resistance, making it suitable for outdoor use.
Used for outdoor components, parts exposed to sunlight.
Composites
Includes carbon fibre, kevlar, or fibreglass; very rigid and strong but can be abrasive.
Used for jigs, fixtures, and high-stress functional prototypes.
SLA Resins
Standard Resins
Excellent for general-purpose prototypes and visual models, known for a smooth finish and good accuracy.
ABS-Like Resins
Mimic the properties of ABS plastic, offering a balance of strength and toughness for functional testing and snap-fit parts.
Flexible Resins
Designed to mimic the properties of rubber, allowing the material to stretch and deform without lasting damage.
Tough Resins
Designed for impact resistance and durability, suitable for applications that require more robust parts.
Rigid Resins
Provide high stiffness and strength for parts that need to hold their shape under load.
High-Temperature Resins
Engineered for applications requiring high thermal resistance, such as moulds and tooling.
Ceramic-Like Resins
Offer high stiffness, strength, and heat resistance, approaching the properties of traditional ceramics.