What is 3D printing?

3D printing or additive manufacturing is a process of making three dimensional solid objects from a digital file. The creation of a 3D printed object is achieved using additive processes. In an additive process an object is created by laying down successive layers of material until the entire object is created. Each of these layers can be seen as a thinly sliced horizontal cross-section of the eventual object. It all starts with making a virtual design of the object you want to create. This virtual design is made in a CAD (Computer Aided Design) file using a 3D modeling program like Solid Works (for the creation of a totally new object) or with the use of a 3D scanner (to copy an existing object). A 3D scanner makes a 3D digital copy of an object.

Prototyping

Prototyping is the largest use of 3D Printing technology that allows designers and engineers to test out ideas before committing to expensive tooling and manufacturing by producing low cost proof of concept models. Product mock-ups created with our 3D printer allow you to create models that would be normally incredibly difficult, costly, or time intensive using traditional methods of manufacturing. Using 3D printed models allows sales people to show their potential clients a physical 3D printed model that they can see and touch. [Copy courtesy of 3D Printing Systems]