3d printing and sustainable design thinking

Rapid prototype

1. Vat Photopolymerisation Stereolithography (SLA) Digital Light Processing (DLP) Continuous Liquid Interface Production (CLIP) 1.Stereolithography (SLA) The key difference is the light source. DLP utilizes other light sources like arc lamps . DLP is relatively quick compared to other 3D printing technologies. 2.Digital Light Processing (DLP) 3.Continuous Liquid Interface Production (CLIP) CLIP is a proprietary 3D printing technology developed by Carbon. CLIP uses an oxygen-permeable window which creates a “dead zone” (a thin liquid interface) of uncured resin between the window and the object. This prevents the part from adhering to the bottom of the print basin.

2. Material Jetting In this process, material is applied in droplets through a small diameter nozzle, similar to the way a common inkjet paper printer works, but it is applied layer-by-layer to a build platform and then hardened by UV light.

3. Binder Jetting With Binder Jetting two materials are used: powder base material and a liquid binder. In the build chamber, powder is spread in equal layers and binder is applied through jet nozzles that “glue” the powder particles in the required shape. After the print is finished, the remaining powder is cleaned off which often can be re-used printing the next object. 

4. Material Extrusion Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) Fused Filament Fabrication (FFF ) Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM)

5. Powder Bed Fusion Multi Jet Fusion (MJF) Selective Laser Sintering (SLS) Direct Metal Laser Sintering (DMLS) 1.Selective Laser Sintering (SLS) SLS uses a high power laser to fuse small particles of powder into a mass that has the desired three dimensional shape. 2.Multi Jet Fusion (MJF) a sweeping arm which deposits a layer of powder and then another arm equipped with inkjets which selectively applies a binder agent over the material. The inkjets also deposit a detailing agent around the binder to ensure precise dimensionality and smooth surfaces.  3.Direct Metal Laser Sintering (DMLS) DMLS is basically the same as SLS, but uses metal powder instead. All unused powder remains as it is and becomes a support structure for the object. Unused powder can be re-used for the next print.

6. Directed Energy Deposition This process is mostly used in the metal industry and in rapid manufacturing applications. The 3D printing apparatus is usually attached to a multi-axis robotic arm and consists of a nozzle that deposits metal powder or wire on a surface and an energy source (laser, electron beam or plasma arc) that melts it, forming a solid object.

7. Materials Multiple materials can be used in additive manufacturing: plastics, metals, concrete, ceramics, paper and certain edibles (e.g. chocolate). Materials are often produced in wire feedstock a.k.a. filament, powder form or liquid resin. Learn more about materials on our  materials  category.

8. Use of 3D Printing for Disaster Management Creating shelters : 3D printing can be used to create shelters that are lightweight, durable, and easy to assemble. This can be especially helpful in disaster situations where traditional building materials are not available or accessible. Producing medical supplies: 3D printing can be used to produce medical supplies, such as bandages, splints, and even prosthetic limbs. This can be critical in disaster situations where medical supplies are in short supply. Building infrastructure: 3D printing can be used to build infrastructure, such as bridges, roads, and water systems. This can be helpful in disaster situations where infrastructure has been damaged or destroyed. Providing relief supplies: 3D printing can be used to provide relief supplies, such as food, water, and clothing. This can be helpful in disaster situations where relief supplies are not readily available. Training first responders: 3D printing can be used to create training tools for first responders. This can help them to prepare for and respond to disasters more effectively.