3D printing is among the most revolutionary manufacturing technologies of the 21st century, vastly improving productivity for countless companies. A process that creates three-dimensional objects by layering materials, 3D printing is utilized across numerous industries, including architecture, engineering, manufacturing, and medicine. Is your company looking to leverage the power of 3D printing? Read on to discover the steps your company can take to maximize productivity and improve customer service with 3D printing.
What are the Benefits of 3D Printing?
Before you get started, take a moment to review all the benefits 3D printing can deliver to your organization. First and foremost, it is a technology that seems too good to be true—you can print nearly everything with it, from toys to gadgets to medical devices. It is also relatively inexpensive compared to traditional printing methods. However, keep in mind this apparently boundless technology still comes with limitations.
Identifying the Right Material
Once you’re ready to start developing your 3D-printing project, you will need to identify the right materials for your job. Plastics and metals are the two major types of materials that are used in 3D printing. You should choose a material based on the application and the purpose of the part you intent to print. For instance, plastics are more commonly used due to the fact that they are easier to work with and cheaper than metal. Plastics are also more lightweight and flexible. So if you’re looking for something lightweight and inexpensive, then plastic is your best bet.
However, metals are stronger and generally more durable, so if you are looking to print custom parts, metal would likely be the better choice for you.
If you are unsure of what material is best for your 3-D print job, contact us for a quote.
Bringing Your 3-D Print Job to Fruition
Once you’ve decided on what materials to use in your 3-D print job, you can move onto designing your job. At this point, it is worth considering an experienced machine shop that has the in-depth knowledge and equipment needed for a successful 3-D print run. Experienced machine shops like Paradigm Development Group can take your project from the prototype stage to finished product, offering both SLA (Stereolithography) and PolyJet printing. Contact us today for a quote.
About Paradigm Development Group
Paradigm Development Group is a complete prototype development shop that sees projects from concept through production, serving multiple industries. Utilizing a broad range of methods, including urethane & silicone castings, 3D Printing, CNC Machining, and custom fabrication, Paradigm Development Group helps turn customer designs into workable, physical models that can be used for engineering/concept review, proof of principle, finished pattern, or as a master pattern for reproduction.
