3D printing | Leadsintec

3D printing service

3D printing (3DP), also known as additive manufacturing, is a rapid prototyping technology that uses digital model files as a basis to construct objects by layer-by-layer printing using adhesive materials such as powdered metals or plastics.

3D printers employ standard inkjet printing technology to create each part layer by layer by depositing liquid binders on thin powder layers, forming cross-sectional data to ultimately create a three-dimensional solid model. Samples produced by this technology match the color of the actual product, allowing the model samples to convey a wealth of information.

The application of 3D printing technology is extremely wide-ranging, including but not limited to industrial manufacturing, cultural creativity and digital entertainment, aerospace and defense, biomedical, consumer goods, architectural engineering, and education, among many other fields. It is used not only for prototyping and mold making but also for cultural and artistic creation, jewelry production, aerospace components, manufacturing of artificial bones and teeth for biomedical purposes, as well as architectural models and wind tunnel testing.

Advantages of 3D Printing:

Manufacturing Flexibility: 3D printing enables the production of complex geometries and structures with high degrees of freedom. Compared to traditional manufacturing methods, it allows for easier customization of products to meet individualized needs.
Rapid Manufacturing: 3D printing is a rapid prototyping technology that can create physical models or product samples in a short amount of time. It eliminates the need for manufacturing tools and equipment required in traditional methods, speeding up the product development and production process.
Material Efficiency: 3D printing manufactures on-demand, using only the necessary materials, reducing waste and resource consumption. Additionally, material costs can be lowered by optimizing designs to reduce product weight.
Innovation Potential: 3D printing technology provides designers, engineers, and creative individuals with greater innovation space. They can use 3D printing to manufacture complex structures and components, exploring new design concepts and manufacturing methods.
Customization and Repair Ease: 3D printing technology allows for personalized customization according to specific needs. Whether it’s creating medical supports for individual body parts or producing customized spare parts for specific mechanical components, precise fitting can be achieved. Additionally, 3D printing can be used for part repair and replacement.
Low Volume Production Cost: Traditional manufacturing methods often incur high costs for small-batch or personalized (such as custom-made) production. With 3D printing technology, small-batch customization production can be achieved while reducing production tool and labor costs, thereby lowering production costs.

3D printing application

Conceptual Modeling

The speed and versatility of customizing 3D printed products enable product developers to create physical snapshots of their designs through an iterative process.

Rapid Prototyping

3D printing can be utilized to create fully functional prototypes, including moving parts and integrated components.

Digital Manufacturing

The high precision and consistency of 3D printing make it an ideal way to produce large quantities of discrete or customized parts.

Common Materials Used in 3D Printing

Common materials used in 3D printing include PLA, ABS, PETG, TPU, metals, resin, and ceramics, among others. Each material has different characteristics and applications, allowing for selection based on specific needs. With technological advancements, new materials continue to emerge, bringing forth more possibilities and opportunities for 3D printing.

1.PLA Material
PLA (Polylactic Acid) is one of the most common materials used in 3D printing. It is a biodegradable material made from renewable cellulose fibers. PLA has a low melting point and low volatility, making it suitable for prototyping, artwork, and household items.

2.ABS Material
ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) is another common material used in 3D printing. ABS has higher strength and heat resistance. Objects printed with ABS exhibit high toughness and durability, making it suitable for manufacturing mechanical parts, toys, and models.

3.PETG Material
PETG (Polyethylene Terephthalate Glycol) is an improved version of PET (Polyethylene Terephthalate). PETG has good strength and impact resistance, as well as transparency and weather resistance. PETG is suitable for printing objects requiring high strength and durability, such as mechanical parts, appliance housings, and bottles.

4.TPU Material
TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane) is an elastic material with good elasticity and wear resistance. TPU can print soft and elastic objects, suitable for making insoles, phone cases, and other flexible components.

5.Metal Materials
In addition to plastic materials, 3D printing can also use metal materials. Metal materials are formed by mixing metal powder with a binder and then forming solid objects through heat treatment and sintering processes. Common metal materials include stainless steel, aluminum alloys, and titanium alloys. Metal materials are widely used in manufacturing aerospace components, medical devices, and automotive parts.

6.Resin Materials
Resin is a liquid material that solidifies into solid objects through ultraviolet or laser curing. Resin materials have excellent detail and surface quality, suitable for making precision models, jewelry, and artwork. Different types of resin materials include polyurethane resin and photosensitive resin, each with specific characteristics and uses.

7.Ceramic Materials
In recent years, ceramic materials have been widely used in the field of 3D printing. Ceramic materials are formed by mixing ceramic powder with a binder and then forming solid objects through a sintering process. 3D printed ceramic products have good heat resistance and corrosion resistance, suitable for making tableware, decorations, and artworks.