3D-printing is a manufacturing technique in which three-dimensional objects are made up layer by layer. The objects can have almost any shape or geometry and are manufactured from, for example, CAD data, computer tomography or other 3D-models. Other words that are used for 3D-printing is additive manufacturing, rapid prototyping, free form fabrication and layer manufacturing.
A relatively simple and common method is to extrude plastic in stock in stock and it can therefore be roughly resembled the technology of an inkjet printer. 3D-printing enables you to produce complex and functional shapes using less material than traditional manufacturing methods. The technique is used to quickly produce parts for a model or a prototype and also in production.
Common materials include metals, ceramics and polymers. Porosity in the final products is often a concern, and there isostatic pressing is used for post processing. For metals, High Pressure Heat Treatment, HPHT™ is being increasingly used to improve the metallurgy of the produced components whilst removing defects.
A relatively simple and common method is to extrude plastic in stock and it can therefore be roughly resembled the technology of an inkjet printer. 3D-printing enables you to produce complex and functional shapes using less material than traditional manufacturing methods. The technique is used to quickly produce parts for a model or a prototype and also in production.
