Introduction to 3D Printing Technology

3D printing is a kind of rapid prototyping technology. It is a technology based on digital model files, using powdery metal or plastic and other adhesive materials to build objects by layer-by-layer printing. 3D printing is usually implemented using digital technology material printers. It is currently used in jewelry, footwear, industrial design, construction, engineering and construction (AEC), automotive, aerospace, dental and medical industries, education, geographic information systems, civil engineering, and other fields.

3D printers can quickly turn ideas into reality without the need for a mold, but print directly. Some spare parts modules can be manufactured in as few as 24 hours, greatly accelerating the development cycle. Some of the parts are small and it is difficult to find the spare parts of the processing factory. It can also be realized by means of a 3D printer. This is also why many institutes and companies are investing in 3D printers.

However, this does not mean that 3D printers will replace the instrument manufacturing model, which is difficult to achieve at least for the present and in the short term. At present, the cost of 3D printing is very high. Whether it is the cost of the printer itself or raw materials, it has a high cost and therefore cannot be used for mass production.

At present, a number of instrument manufacturers simply use 3D printers for instrument development and prototype production, or simply do not use 3D printing technology. Many manufacturers are paying attention to the technology and are in the early stage of understanding and research. This is mainly related to the maturity of technology and cost issues. The potential of 3D printing technology can not be ignored, but at this stage it is still difficult to popularize applications and mass production.