To Print or Not To Print? 3D Printing for Prototyping
Since the development of 3D printing, it has become a pivotal technology in product development, streamlining the design process with its rapid prototyping capabilities. This technique, known for its fast production cycles and efficient use of materials, allows designers and engineers to experiment with designs and gain confidence in their projects before progressing to traditional manufacturing stages.
3D printing is used extensively by both hobbyists and professionals to enhance their iterative processes. However, it’s crucial to recognize the limitations alongside the advantages of this innovative technology. In this article, we'll delve deeper into the reasons for and against using 3D printing during product development.
When to 3D Print
Speedy Development Cycles: If you need results fast, 3D printing is tough to beat. Unlike traditional methods that often require lengthy preparations, 3D printing demands significantly less lead time. The absence of fixtures or extensive material preparation means a design can go from a digital file to a physical object in just a few hours. This rapid turnaround is invaluable for testing and refining concepts quickly and efficiently.
Cost Efficiency in Materials: If you are looking for ways to gain confidence in a concept while preserving budget 3D printing is uniquely qualified. It uses an additive process, building objects layer by layer, which typically results in minimal waste. when combined with materials like PLA, ABS, and PETG 3D printing significantly reduces the financial risk associated with exploratory designs in the initial phases of product development.
Reduced Labor Costs: Despite the availability of more costly materials, labor costs remain low with 3D printing. A well-designed part requires minimal oversight during the printing process, allowing a single operator to manage multiple machines simultaneously.
Complex Designs Made Simple: One of the standout features of 3D printing is its ability to create complex geometries that would be difficult, if not impossible, to achieve with conventional manufacturing methods. Technologies like soluble supports allow for intricate designs with fewer production steps, opening up new realms of possibility in mechanical and aesthetic design.
When NOT to 3D Print
Durability Concerns: Certain applications require materials that surpass the typical durability offered by standard 3D printing materials. While some advanced 3D printers can handle thermoplastics, ceramics, and even metals, these materials often involve higher costs and more complex processes.
Size Limitations: The dimensions of the printable area can restrict the size of parts that can be produced. Larger objects must either be printed in sections and assembled post-production or created using specialized large-format printers, potentially complicating the process.
Dimensional Tolerance and Finish: 3D printed parts often exhibit a distinct layered texture, and while recent advancements have improved surface smoothness, achieving a completely flawless finish directly from the printer remains a challenge. Additionally, parts produced with FDM technology must account for factors like nozzle size and material shrinkage, affecting dimensional accuracy. Tolerances vary, but typical values range from 0.1mm to 0.5mm, which may not suffice for high-precision applications.
Despite its limitations, ongoing innovations in 3D printing technology have reduced costs and improved the quality and capabilities of 3D printers. Today, they are not only used for creating detailed prototypes but also for producing final products in some cases.
At Acorn, we leverage our in-house 3D printing capabilities to accelerate our clients' time to market, supporting the journey from initial concept to final product. Whether it’s rapid prototyping or small-scale production, 3D printing stands as a transformative tool in modern manufacturing and design processes. If you're looking to bring a product to life, Acorn offers comprehensive solutions to design, engineer, and test your ideas efficiently.