3d printing is a really cool technology that’s easy to understand and use. 

I am no 3D printing expert but I have found some online resources that I think you will find helpful even if you are experienced in all the various 3D formats including slicer software.

There is a lot to learn – how much is up to you and what you want to do with the knowledge you gain.  So let’s get to it:-)

Types of 3D printing

You may or may not know there are 8 different types of 3D Printing. Each one being developed for a particular need but all sharing the same concepts. Each of them has pros and cons but ultimately it boils down to what the consumers want as to which type of printer is suitable for their needs and other factors such as size, cost, resin, filament, customer service and ease of use will also play a major role in any final decisions to buy a particular printer.

Types of Printer

DMLS – or Direct Metal Laser Sintering. This is metal 3D Printing technology. The lasers are used to melt metal powder which is then used by the printer to print metal parts

FDM – This is the current mainstay for most consumers. FDM or Fused Deposition Modeling is the most common and accessible type of printer for anyone thinking about learning to do 3D printing. 

SLA and DLP – (Stereolithography)- these printers use liquid resin which is cured by ultraviolet light and the liquid hardens. Models are built up in layers of 0.05microns and when complete the model is washed in 70% alcohol and further cured in ultraviolet light or left outside in the sun to fully cure. Many medical devices are produced the way as is custom jewelry.

PolyJet – this technology has been around for over 20 years and very similar to inkjet printers. It allows full colour 3D printing and is suited for mass production.

EMB – or Electron Beam Melting uses an electron beam to fuse metal particles to create the desired part layer by layer.

SLS – Selective Laser Sintering. is an additive manufacturing technology that uses high-power lasers to sinter small particles of polymer powder into a solid structure based on a 3D model.

MJS – Multi Jet Fusion Printing. Using nylon powder these printers use fusing agents and is more predictable and consistent than laser 3D printers

Below you will find links to manufactures, STL file companies, Software e.g. Slicers, CAD design an more.