Additive Manufacturing & Materials
Additive manufacturing, commonly known as **3D printing**, is a process of creating three-dimensional objects by adding material layer by layer. Unlike traditional subtractive manufacturing (like cutting or drilling), additive manufacturing allows for the creation of complex geometries and intricate designs that would be impossible to produce otherwise. This course will teach you about the different technologies, materials, and post-processing techniques that make this a powerful tool for modern manufacturing.
3D Printing Workflow Tutorial
This tutorial provides a simple overview of the essential steps for taking a CAD model and preparing it for the 3D printer.
Step 1: Export Your CAD Model
Once you have completed your design in CAD software, you must export it to a file format that a 3D printer can understand. The most common format is **.STL** (stereolithography), which approximates your 3D model's surfaces with a mesh of small triangles.
Step 2: Use a Slicer Program
A "slicer" program (like Ultimaker Cura or PrusaSlicer) takes your .STL file and "slices" it into thin horizontal layers. It generates the **G-code**, a set of instructions that tells the 3D printer exactly where to move and where to extrude material, layer by layer.
Step 3: Choose Your Material
The material you choose (known as filament) is critical. **PLA** (Polylactic Acid) is a popular choice for beginners due to its ease of use and low warping. **ABS** (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) is stronger and more durable, but requires a heated bed and good ventilation. The slicer's settings will be adjusted based on your selected material.
Step 4: Configure Print Settings
In the slicer, you will adjust settings like **layer height** (for resolution), **infill percentage** (to control the density and strength), and print temperature. These settings directly affect the quality, strength, and print time of your final part.