PROGRESSION IN 3D PRINTING FAMILIES: LASER, POWDER, NOZZLE-BASED TECHNIQUES: AN OVER VIEW

Abstract

3D printing technology is undergoing rapid development and is causing a significant transformation in the processes of product design and manufacturing. The three most prevalent categories of 3D printing methods are laser-based, powder-based, and nozzle-based. Laser-based methodologies such as selective laser sintering (SLS) and laser powder bed fusion (LPBF) use a laser beam to consolidate the powder material, resulting in the formation of a cohesive solid structure. Powder-based methodologies, such as binder jetting and material jetting, use a binding agent to consolidate powder particles, resulting in the formation of a coherent three-dimensional structure. Nozzle-based methodologies, such as fused deposition modelling (FDM) and stereolithography (SLA), use a nozzle to sequentially deposit material in a layered manner, thereby facilitating the construction of a three-dimensional object. Each of these families of 3D printing has distinct benefits and disadvantages. Laser-based methodologies are renowned for their exceptional precision and resolution; however, they may exhibit limitations in terms of speed and cost. Powder-based methodologies provide superior speed and cost-effectiveness compared to laser-based methodologies, but at the expense of compromised precision and resolution. Nozzle-based methods are often regarded as the most flexible and cost-effective forms of 3D printing. However, it is important to note that these techniques may exhibit comparatively lower levels of precision and resolution than laser-based and powder-based alternatives. Recently, notable advancements have been made in each of these three categories of 3D printing. In recent years, there has been notable advancement in laser-based approaches, characterized by enhanced speed and increased affordability. Simultaneously, powder-based and nozzle-based techniques have shown significant improvements in terms of accuracy and resolution. Advancements in technology have broadened the scope of potential uses for 3D printing. The use of 3D printing technology has become more prevalent in the manufacturing of diverse products, including medical gadgets, aircraft components, and automobile parts. The progression of 3D printing of families is expected to continue in the future. This progress will lead to the development of faster, more affordable, and more accurate 3D printing techniques. This will make 3D printing more accessible and applicable in a wider range of industries. 3D printing is expected to play an increasingly important role in our lives. 3D printing can be used to produce customized products, on-demand products, and products that are difficult or impossible to produce using traditional manufacturing methods.

Cite as:

Sagar K. G. (2023). Progression in 3D Printing Families: Laser, Powder, Nozzle-Based Techniques: An Over View. Advancement in Mechanical Engineering and Technology, 6(3), 44–52. https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.10142769