What is 3D Printing.
3D printing is an innovative technology that creates three-dimensional objects from digital designs, allowing for customisation and rapid prototyping across various industries. It utilises materials such as plastics and resins to produce intricate and functional items with precision.
FDM (Fused Deposition Modeling) 3D printing works by melting plastic filament and squeezing it out through a small nozzle. The printer moves the nozzle around to draw each layer of the object, stacking the layers on top of each other to build the final shape. It starts with a digital design of the object, which is divided into thin slices by special software. As the printer follows these slices, it creates the object layer by layer until it's complete. This method is popular because it's affordable and can make strong, durable items from various types of plastic.
But that isn’t the only method of 3D Printing we use.
Resin Based 3D Printing.
The section above refers to a second category of 3D printing, namely Resin-Based 3D Printing, also known as MSLA.
MSLA (Masked Stereolithography) 3D printing works by using a UV light to harden liquid resin layer by layer. It starts with a digital design, which is divided into thin slices by special software. The printer has a screen that shows the pattern of each layer, and a UV light shines through the screen to solidify the resin in that pattern. The build platform then moves up slightly, and the process repeats for the next layer. This method is known for producing highly detailed and smooth objects, making it ideal for intricate designs and small parts.
After an object is printed using MSLA (Masked Stereolithography) 3D printing, it needs to be cleaned and cured. First, the printed object is rinsed in isopropyl alcohol to remove any uncured resin still on its surface. This can be done by gently shaking it in an alcohol bath or using a special cleaning machine. Once clean, the object is dried and then exposed to more UV light in a process called curing. Curing fully hardens the resin, improving the object’s strength and durability. This step is crucial to ensure the final print is solid and ready for use.
At Print3D Skegness, we now provide resin printing services. Resin printing is ideal for producing highly detailed models and miniature figures.