3D Printing is a technology that enables the creation of physical objects by layering materials on top of each other until the desired shape is created. 3D Printing has revolutionized many industries by enabling faster and cheaper manufacturing of complex and customized products.
Here we will explain what 3D printing is, how it works and what application possibilities 3D printing has.
3D Printing, also known as additive manufacturing, is a set of manufacturing processes in which a three-dimensional physical object is created by stacking layers of material on top of each other. This technology is one of the most innovative tools in modern manufacturing, enabling the creation of high-quality prototypes and the production of complex shapes that cannot be produced using traditional manufacturing methods.
3D Printing works by creating a digital model of the object using computer software. The model is then trimmed, which means that it is cut into thin layers. This digital cropped model is then sent to a 3D printer, which creates the object by adding layers of material one by one until the object is complete.
The materials used for 3D printing can vary from plastics and metals to ceramics and even biological materials such as living cells. 3D printers come in different sizes and varieties, from small units used for hobby purposes to large industrial machines capable of printing large and complex parts.
3D Printing encompasses several different technologies with different strengths and applications. These are used to create objects with high precision and varying material properties. This is a brief summary of the most common processes.
For a more detailed review of these processes and their uses then read here.
3D printing offers several advantages over traditional manufacturing. The technology allows for the production of objects with high precision and complex shapes that would otherwise be difficult to create. In addition, 3D printing is more environmentally friendly by reducing waste, as only the materials needed are used.
Economically, 3D printing can reduce costs by reducing the need for expensive tools and molds, as well as by saving materials and energy. The technology is also flexible, enabling the creation of customized objects without changes to manufacturing equipment.
3D printing also offers time savings through faster prototyping and production processes, which in turn shorten delivery times. The flexibility of the technology also provides the opportunity to adjust designs and explore different alternatives without major investments.
Today, 3D printing is used in a variety of industries and applications, from medical technology to architecture and art. Companies in these industries have adopted the technology to improve their production and efficiency. The technology has opened up opportunities for new types of companies and entrepreneurs who are able to create and sell their own products in a simpler and more cost-effective way.
With this printing technology constantly evolving, it is exciting to see what the future holds for this innovative technology. With increasing accessibility and usability, 3D printing is expected to continue to revolutionize the manufacturing industry and create new opportunities for businesses and entrepreneurs. Here are some examples of industries where the technology is used today:
Prototype manufacturing
3D printing is a valuable tool for creating prototypes of products and components, allowing manufacturers to test and evaluate product designs in a cost-effective and efficient manner.
Manufacturing of spare parts
3D printing offers an effective solution when you need to replace a defective spare part. The technology enables rapid production with short lead times, meaning that spare parts can be produced and delivered in a short time. This reduces both costs and potential downtime in your business.
The automotive industry
3D Printing is used in the automotive industry to create prototypes of parts and components, as well as to manufacture spare parts and accessories. This technology also enables customized vehicle designs and faster production times.
Medical technology
In medical technology, 3D Printing is used to create models and prototypes of anatomical structures, prostheses and medical instruments. This enables doctors and surgeons to visualize and plan interventions and provide more precise treatments.
Prototype manufacturing
3D printing is a valuable tool for prototyping products and components, allowing manufacturers to test and evaluate product designs in a cost-effective and efficient manner.
Serial production
3D printing can in many cases be a cost-effective way to manufacture parts up to a couple of thousand in annual volume. Thanks to the flexibility of the technology, the design of the parts can be easily updated over time without increased manufacturing cost.
Manufacturing of spare parts
3D printing offers an effective solution when you need to replace a defective spare part. The technology enables rapid production with short lead times, meaning that spare parts can be produced and delivered in a short time. This reduces both costs and potential downtime in your business.
The manufacturing industry
Today, 3D printing is used in the manufacturing industry to create prototypes, tools, and production accessories. By using 3D printing, companies can quickly produce and test prototypes and improve their production process.
Medical technology
In medical technology, 3D Printing is used to create models and prototypes of anatomical structures, prostheses and medical instruments. This enables doctors and surgeons to visualize and plan interventions and provide more precise treatments.
The automotive industry
3D Printing is used in the automotive industry to create prototypes of parts and components, as well as to manufacture spare parts and accessories. This technology also enables customized vehicle designs and faster production times.
Architecture and construction
In architecture and construction, 3D printing is used to create models of buildings and infrastructure. This gives architects and engineers a better understanding of the design and how it will work in real life.
Art and Design
3D printing is also used in art and design to create sculptures, jewelry and other works of art. This technology enables artists and designers to create unique and complex objects that would otherwise be difficult or impossible to produce.
At TOP3D, we are a full-service provider of end products and prototypes manufactured using 3D printing. We use top-notch manufacturing technologies and can help companies quickly move from digital to physical product.
We operate all over the country, regardless of whether you are in Stockholm, Gothenburg or far up north, you can trust that we deliver the best 3D prints on the market.
If you already have a file or object, you can order it. your 3D print hereIf you are unsure about what processes or materials to choose, there is a nice Process and material selector to go through. And above all, don't hesitate for a second to contact us if you have any questions or concerns.
Common to all 3D printing processes is that details are always built up layer by layer. This is done by sectioning the part to be manufactured into a number of cross-sections, called layers, with a tenth of a millimeter. These layers form the basis for 3d printing, both in plastic and metal.
With 3D printing, there is no start-up cost and is therefore often cheaper than traditional manufacturing when it comes to small-piece production and smaller series. The cost of 3D printing is calculated based on the 3D file available of the component and it is mainly the size of the detail that determines the price. High complexity rarely costs anything extra, which is not the case in traditional manufacturing. Minimum order value with us is SEK 2,000 excluding VAT and shipping.
In order for us to calculate prices for manufacturing, you need to provide us with:
If you don't have a 3d file, one must be produced, which we are happy to help with. Contact us for more info if you need help with this.
The advantages of 3D Printing include faster product development, reduced production costs, the ability to create more complex objects and a reduced environmental impact.
Our delivery times are usually between 0-9 days for plastic and 5-15 days for metal. This depends on the choice of process and material and whether you want some kind of finishing process or not.
You can 3D print in almost any material, everything from plastic and metal to wood and concrete. We offer manufacturing in a variety of thermoplastics, thermosets, metals and composites. Read more about our processes and materials for 3d printing in here.
Absolutely! 3D printing in metal is a good and cost-effective alternative to traditional manufacturing of metal. We offer a range of different alloys such as stainless steel, aluminium, titanium, copper and many more. Read more about our processes and materials for 3d printing in metal here.
The durability for 3d printing is generally very good. 3D printed aluminum has about the same strength as cast and steel on par with infection. There is an opinion among some that 3d-printed parts do not last, but in these cases the wrong material or the wrong process has usually been used for that purpose.
These processes produce very similar results and material properties, but the processes are very different. Both processes build geometries by melting a powder. In SLS, the powder is fused together with a laser, while in MJF, the powder is fused using a heat lamp and a form of heat-attracting ink. If we are talking about PA12 (nylon12), details made with SLS will be white and details made with MJF will be grey. Both can be colored in.
This question is not as easy to answer as many people think. The maximum building volume for each process you can read about under the respective process but that information doesn't always answer the question. Some parts must be divided in order to be printed, not as is usually the case because of size, but because they can simply be 3D printed much more cost-effectively that way. Some parts must be divided because quality and tolerance require it. Often a certain type of finishing is desired and then other dimensions apply than the maximum build volume of the 3D printer in question.
So, the answer depends on many different parameters. Send us your request and we will look at how we can best manufacture your part and whether it should be manufactured in one piece or in parts that are assembled before delivery.
How can we help you with 3D printing?
We are always ready to start working with your request and wishes, all that is required is that you contact us and describe how we can help you. Please use the quote request form for inquiries regarding pure 3d printing tasks and for all other matters you are welcome to use our contact form. Note, at the moment we offer all our services to registered companies only.
We look forward to hearing from you!
We are a leading and comprehensive enterprise supplier with solid expertise in additive manufacturing. We offer the highest quality of end products and prototypes in metal, polymeric materials, plastics and composites – from idea to finished product.
