What criteria should you use to select the best 3D printing technology for your prototyping needs?

1 Speed and Cost

One of the main factors that you should consider is how fast and how much it will cost you to print your prototype. Depending on the size, complexity, and quality of your model, different 3D printing technologies will have different printing times and costs. For example, Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) is a relatively cheap and fast method that uses thermoplastic filaments to create solid objects layer by layer. However, it may not be suitable for models that require high accuracy, detail, or smoothness. On the other hand, Stereolithography (SLA) is a more expensive and slower method that uses a laser to cure liquid resin into solid shapes. It can produce very high-resolution and smooth models, but it also requires more post-processing and material handling.

2 Material and Functionality

Another important factor that you should consider is what kind of material and functionality you want your prototype to have. Different 3D printing technologies and materials can offer different properties, such as strength, flexibility, durability, color, texture, and temperature resistance. For example, if you want to prototype a functional part that needs to withstand stress, heat, or wear, you may want to use a metal-based 3D printing technology, such as Direct Metal Laser Sintering (DMLS) or Selective Laser Melting (SLM). These methods can create strong and dense metal parts from metal powder. However, they are also very expensive and require specialized equipment and expertise. On the other hand, if you want to prototype a decorative or artistic model that needs to have a variety of colors and finishes, you may want to use a full-color 3D printing technology, such as ColorJet Printing (CJP) or MultiJet Printing (MJP). These methods can create colorful and detailed models from powder or resin with different binders and inks.

3 Quality and Resolution

A third factor that you should consider is how much quality and resolution you need for your prototype. Quality and resolution refer to how smooth, accurate, and detailed your model is. They are affected by the layer thickness, the nozzle or laser diameter, the printing speed, and the post-processing techniques of the 3D printing technology. Generally, the thinner the layer, the smaller the nozzle or laser, the slower the printing speed, and the more post-processing involved, the higher the quality and resolution of your model. However, these factors also increase the printing time and cost. For example, if you need to prototype a model that has intricate details, curves, or overhangs, you may want to use a high-resolution 3D printing technology, such as SLA or PolyJet. These methods can create models with layer thicknesses as low as 0.025 mm and nozzle or laser diameters as small as 0.014 mm. However, they also require more time and money to print and clean.

4 Compatibility and Availability

A final factor that you should consider is how compatible and available the 3D printing technology is for your 3D modeling software and your location. Compatibility refers to how well your 3D modeling software can export and prepare your model for the 3D printing technology. For example, some 3D printing technologies may require specific file formats, such as STL, OBJ, or AMF, or specific settings, such as infill, support, or orientation. You should check if your 3D modeling software can export and optimize your model for the 3D printing technology that you want to use. Availability refers to how easy it is to find and access the 3D printing technology in your area. For example, some 3D printing technologies may be more common and affordable than others, or some may be only available through online or local service providers. You should check if you can find and afford the 3D printing technology that you want to use in your location.

5 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?