3D printing has revolutionised multiple industries, offering innovative solutions for prototyping and production. There are a variety of 3D printing technologies, each with unique characteristics and applications. In this article, we explore the most common types of 3D printing, their technologies and how they are applied in different sectors.
From the manufacture of industrial components to the creation of customised parts, 3D printing has enabled greater flexibility in production processes, providing fast and accurate results.
Classification of 3D printing according to material description
3D printing technologies are mainly classified according to the type of material used, which determines both the process and the possible applications. Common materials include polymers, metals and ceramics. The choice of material influences the durability, strength and precision of the final parts.
For example, polymers are ideal for rapid prototyping, while metals are used for advanced industrial applications. For more information on the types of materials and technologies, visit our section on 3D printing o solicita un presupuesto personalizado.
FDM (Fused Deposition Modeling) printing
FDM printing is one of the most widely used technologies in 3D printing. It works by extruding plastic filaments, which are melted and deposited layer by layer to create the final object. It is an accessible, inexpensive and easy-to-use technology, ideal for producing rapid prototypes and functional parts with good levels of strength. FDM printers are compatible with a wide variety of materials such as PLA, ABS and PETG.
The most common applications of FDM printing include prototyping, creating custom parts and low-cost tooling.
SLA printing (Stereolithography)
Stereolithography uses a laser to solidify liquid resin layer by layer. This technology offers high precision and smooth surfaces.
Advantages of SLA include its high resolution, while disadvantages include cost and post-processing time.
SLS printing (Selective Laser Sintering)
Selective laser sintering (SLS) uses a laser to sinter powder particles to form solid parts. It is ideal for strong and complex parts, without the need for supporting structures.
Industrial applications of SLS include the manufacture of functional prototypes and end-use parts in sectors such as automotive and aviation.
3D printing by material bonding
Material bonding 3D printing is based on the addition and fusion of powder, liquid or filament to create parts. This process uses a binding agent that binds successive layers of material together, achieving a high level of precision and detail. Technologies such as Binder Jetting and Material Jetting fall into this category, allowing materials such as ceramics, metals and polymers to be processed. This technique is ideal for the production of complex parts, moulds and functional prototypes in industrial, aerospace and medical sectors.
Binder Jetting (injection of binding agent)
Binder Jetting works by depositing a binding agent on layers of powder to create parts. It is a fast and efficient technology, especially in the production of moulds and metal components.
Main applications include the creation of moulds for casting and porous metal parts.
Material Jetting (inyección de material)
Material Jetting works by injecting droplets of material onto a platform, which solidify in thin layers. It is ideal for detailed prototypes.
Its advantages include high precision and the possibility of using multiple materials. It is used in prototyping and production of detailed parts.
Directed Energy Deposition (DED)
DED uses a laser or electron beam to melt material and deposit it in layers. It is known for its precision in the manufacture and repair of metal parts.
In the aerospace and repair industry, DED is used to manufacture and repair complex metal components.
3D printing by selective solidification
This type of printing uses lasers or electron beams to melt powdered material to create solid objects. It is ideal for the production of high-strength metal and plastic parts.
Selective Laser Melting (SLM)
SLM uses lasers to completely melt the metal powder, creating dense parts. Unlike SLS, SLM is ideal for manufacturing metal parts with optimal mechanical properties.
Applications include the production of metal components in sectors such as automotive and engineering.
Electron Beam Melting (EBM)
EBM uses an electron beam to melt metal powder and form complex parts. It operates at high temperatures, making it possible to create robust components.
Uses include the manufacture of complex parts for the aerospace and medical industries.
Other 3D printing methods
In addition to the technologies mentioned above, there are other 3D printing methods, such as DLP and LOM, which offer specific solutions according to the needs of the project.
Digital Light Processing (DLP)
DLP is similar to SLA, but uses a digital light projector to solidify liquid resin. It is fast and efficient, especially in mass production.
Common applications include the dental and jewellery sectors, where high precision is required.
Laminated Object Manufacturing (LOM)
LOM creates objects by cutting and laminating sheets of material. It is an economical process for large parts.
It is commonly used in the manufacture of bulky prototypes and architectural models.
How to choose the right type of 3D printing for your project
Choosing the right type of 3D printing for your project is essential to ensure its success. It is important to consider aspects such as the material to be used, the complexity of the part and the production time. You should also assess the accuracy and surface finish you want to achieve, as different technologies offer different capabilities in these areas. Being clear about your objectives and requirements will help you select the best option for your project.
Another factor to consider is production volume. If you only need one or a few parts, technologies such as FDM or SLA may be suitable. However, if you plan mass production, you might opt for more efficient methods such as SLS or Binder Jetting. Evaluating all these elements will allow you to make informed decisions and optimise the manufacturing process.
Factors to consider in the choice of technology
When selecting a 3D printing technology, it is essential to consider several factors that can influence the final result. First, the nature of the material you want to use can determine which technology is most suitable. For example, if you need metal parts, technologies such as SLM or EBM are ideal, while for plastics you might opt for FDM or SLA. Also, consider the geometry of the part: some technologies are better for complex shapes and fine details.
Another important factor is delivery time. If the project is on a tight deadline, it is essential to choose a technology that enables fast and efficient production. Printer capabilities and operator experience also play a crucial role. Evaluate these aspects carefully to ensure that your choice meets the needs of your project.
Comparison of costs and efficiency between technologies
Comparing costs and efficiency between the various 3D printing technologies is key to making an informed decision. FDM printers tend to be the most economical, both in terms of initial investment and operating costs. However, they offer lower accuracy compared to technologies such as SLA or SLS, which, although more expensive, guarantee a high quality finish and precise details.
In addition, it is important to consider the cost of materials. Some technologies require more expensive materials, which can increase the overall project budget. Production time must also be taken into account; while some printers can take hours to create one part, others are capable of making multiple parts simultaneously. Analysing these factors will help you balance quality and budget in your choice of 3D printing technology.
