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3D printing Technologies
Introduction and Overview
The technology of 3 D printing, also known as additive manufacturing, is the process of
creating solid objects that are three dimensional from a digital file. The achievement of the three-
dimensional object gets done by utilizing additive processes. The additive process of printing
involves placing down materials in continuous layers to the full creation of the designed item.
Ever layer laid can be viewed as a horizontal, thinly-sliced cross-section of the ultimate object
under printing. Three-dimensional printing is the contrast of subtractive manufacturing, which
encompasses the hollowing out or cutting out of a plastic or metal piece with, for example, a
milling machine. As a result, three-dimensional printing does enable the creation of complex
shapes with the use of less input than the ordinary methods of manufacturing.
3D Printing Process
Creation of 3D Model
According to Vaezi and Chua, the process of 3D printing starts with a 3D model. One has
to create the model by themselves or go to the 3D repository and download the model. When an
individual decides to develop the model by themselves, they may choose to utilize a three-
dimensional scanner, 3 D modeling software, or code, haptic device, or an app (275-284).
3 D Modelling Software
The software is used in modeling a three-dimensional object, and there are many of these
modeling software implements. The industrial-grade software costs thousands per license
annually; however, there is also software one can get that is free to use open-source software.
Tinkercad is the most recommended software because it is free and compatible with many
browsers (Bush, Cox and Cook 112). Also, Tinkercad software does not need installation on the
computer to work. Besides, the software provides starter lessons and has incorporated a feature
to ensure the printing of a designed three-dimensional model on a service of 3D printing.
Slicing: From 3 Dimensional Model to 3 Dimensional Printer
Slicing in 3D printing refers to the slicing of a created model into thousands or hundreds
of layers horizontally. The process gets done by slicing software. Most of the 3 D printers
contain the slicing software lets one fed the CAs, obj, stl, or raw file. Upon slicing the file, it is
ready for feeding into the 3D printer, and it can be done through the internet, SD, or USB device.
The sliced 3D model is prepared for 3D printing layer by layer (Bush, Cox and Cook 110-114).
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The industry of 3D Printing

The level of 3Dprinting technology is reaching serious bulks in that those who have not
yet integrated additive manufacturing in their businesses are a section of the diminishing
minority. In the beginning, 3D printing technology was only fit for one-off manufacturing and
prototyping; however, it has gained a rapid transformation into a contemporary production
technology. Presently, the majority of demand for 3D technology is primarily industrial. It is
approximated that by 2026, the market for 3D printing would be close to or over $40billion. The
evolution of 3D technology is predestined to change nearly all major industries and transform the
way people play, work, or live in the future. Importantly, three-dimensional technology diverges
across all sectors, including consumer products such as furniture, design, footwear, and eyewear;
industrial commodities, for example, prototypes and manufacturing tools and dental products.
Also, movie props, Forensic pathology reconstruction of evidence, fossil reconstruction I
archeology, architectural maquettes and scale models, prosthetics, among others.
Types of 3D Printing Technologies
Averagely, there are seven varying types, identified and established, of additive processes
of manufacturing. The defined processes gave birth to eleven different kinds of three-
dimensional printing technologies being used by 3D printers in contemporary society. These are
Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM), Stereolithography (SLA), Digital Light Processing (DLP),
Masked Stereolithography (MSLA), and Selective Laser Sintering (SLS). Also, Material Jetting
(MJ), Drop on Demand (DOD), Sand Binder Jetting, Metal Binder Jetting, Selective Laser/Direct
Metal Laser (DMLS), and Electron Beam Melting (EBM).
1. Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM)
FDM is the cheapest model type of three-dimensional printing technology globally,
whose Material Extrusion is the most frequently accessed. It is the familiar type of technology,
and in other cases, they are commonly identified as Fused Filament Fabrication (FFF)
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Fig 1: FDM Video by Loughborough University

The model works with loading the filament into the three dimensional printer and feeding it via a
spout of the printer. The heating of the nozzle of the printer to a required heat and the motor
shoves the filament via the hot spout making the filament to melt down. Along with specified
coordinates, the printer moves the extrusion head to lay down the smelted substance to the shape
plate for cooling and solidifying (Novakova-Marcincinova and Kuric 26). Upon the completion
of the layer, the printer continues to lay down the subsequent sheet. The process of cross-
sectional printing repeats, constructing layer after another, aunting the development of the
complete object. The model may require support structure depending on the object's geometry;
for instance of the parts are overhanging steeply.
2. Stereolithography (SLA)
The SLA model is identified historically as the first technology in 3d printing. The
model was invented in 1986 by Chuck Hull, who trailed patent on the innovation and established
a 3D Systems company to commercialize the product.
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Fig 2: Stereolothography video by Formlabs 2015

The printer utilizes galvanometer mirrors (galvos), where the positioning of the fist on is
on the X-axis while the other is on the y-axis. The duo quickly directs a laser beam across a
container of gum, selectively drying and hardening cross-selection of an item in the construction
section, developing it up layer after another (He 314). To cure parts, the majority of the SLA
printers utilize a solid-state laser. However, this type of printing technique uses a point laser,
which takes longer time to smidgen the cross-section of the item concerning DLP.
3. Digital Light Processing (DLP)
The DLP technology closely relates to SLA; however, the DLP does use the projector of
digital light for flashing a single image of every layer once, and for more significant parts, it
releases multiple flashes. Based on the fact that the projector is an ordinal monitor, each layer
image is made up of square pixels that model a layer made up of small voxels (rectangular
blocks) (He, 315). The speed of DLP is higher than SLA because of exposing the whole layer
once, instead of tracking the cross-sectional region with the laser point. The projection of the
light by a UV source of light (lamp) or light-emitting diode (LED) screen directing it to the
developed area by a Digital Micromirror Device (DMD. A DM is an assortment of minute
mirrors controlling the direction of light projection and generation of the light configuration on
the build plate.
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4. Masked Stereolithography (MSLA)

Palanikumar and Mudhukrishnan agitate that MSLA utilizes an array of LEDs as the
source of light, directing UV light via an LCD screen to display a single slice layer as a mask (a
derivative of the name) (51). The LCS photomask displays digitally and composes square pixels
like the DLP. The size of the pixel of the LCD photomask expresses the granularity of the
output. The accuracy of XY is intact and does not rely on the clarity of zooming or lane scaling
as the DLP's case. Also, DLP uses a collection of many emitters, whereas the MSLA depends on
the single light source emitter point like a DLB bulb or a laser diode.
The two, MSLA and DLP under given conditions, can print faster than the SLA because
of exposing the layer at once instead of racing the cross-section region using a point of the laser.
The low pricing of LCD printers has led to MSLA becoming the preferred technology for the
printer segment of the budget desktop.
5. Selective Laser Sintering (SLS)
SLS refers to the creation of an item using the technology of Powder Bed Fusion and
polymer powder. The lower cost and the expiry of industrial patents are making such types as the
SLS technology accessible. Usually, there is the heating of polymer powder to a below-melting
point of the polymer. Then wiper deposits or recoating blade, powdered material in a skinny
layer (usually the thickness of 1mm) on to a construction platform (Palanikumar and
Mudhukrishnan 54). A laser beam of Carbon dioxide starts scanning the surface where the laser
beam selectively sinters the powder while solidifying the object’s cross-section. The laser
focuses on the right location by a pair of galvos, like in the case of the SLA. Upon scanning the
whole cross-section, the build platform moves down a single layer of thickness in height. The
recoating blade credits a new coat of powder above the previously scanned layer, the laser sinters
the subsequent cross-section of the item on the recently hardened cross-sections. The repetition
of these steps continues until the entire piece is fully developed. The un-sintered powder remains
in a position to aid the under construction, eliminating the necessity of support structures.
6. Material Jetting (MJ)
The working of the Material Jetting is similar to that of the inkjet printer. The main
difference is that multiple layers get to build on each other for creating a substantial part instead
of producing a solitary sheet of ink. The print head does the jetting of many minute droplets of
photopolymer. Using ultraviolet light, it solidifies these droplets. Upon depositing a full layer
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and curing it, there is the lowering of one layer thickness, and the repetition of the process
continues to complete the construction. The difference of MJ machines from other three-
dimensional printing technology is that does the depositing, sintering, and curing of the build
material using deposition hat is point-wise (Gibson et al. pp.183-187). Whereas the MJ machines
do deposits content rapidly using a line-wise fashion, dissimilar to the single point of following
an outlining path of the cross-sectional region.
Importantly, the line-wise deposition of the MJ does the fabrication of multiple items in a
unitary line without affecting the construction speed. With proper arrangement of the models and
adequate optimization of the build line space, the production of parts by the MJ machine is
higher than any other 3D printing machines (All3DP). The MJ object under print needs support
because s simultaneous printing in from soluble materials in the build that gets removed in the
stage of post-processing. In the 3D printing technology, it is only the MJ that can produce items
from printing multi-material objects and gives complete color.
7. Drop on Demand (DOD)
DOD technology uses a pair of inkjets where one does the depositing of primarily wax-
like build materials. The other inkjet uses dissolvable material. The DOD copiers do follow a
programmed trail for jetting stuff in a deposition that is point-wise, which creates the cross-
sectional region the item layer after another (All3DP). The DOD uses a fly cutter that scans the
build region after every segment and ensures a flawless level exterior before starting another
sheet. These printers are utilized in the creation of patterns suitable for investment casting, lost
wax casting, and other applications that use mold-making.
8. Sand Binder Jetting
These are the type three dimensional printing technology that produces items from sand,
for instance, gypsum or sandstone. To create floor models, the items get fabrication using PPMA
or plaster based powder together with a fluid binding additive. First, the print jet flushes the
binding substance, whereas the second print head jets in the color that permits the printing of full
color. Upon curing of the other parts, they get detached from the powder that is not bonded and
washed (Bournias-Varotsis 665). To get an enhanced automatic characteristic, there is the
exposition of the pieces to the infiltrant material.
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Fig 3 Image of Engine Block, Multi-part sand, ExOne

Many types of infiltrant materials are available, and every part infiltrant gives different
features. To advance the color outlook, coatings are added. Binder Jetting is equally significant
for producing sand-cast core and molds. Molds and cores get extracted from the build region and
cleaned for the removal of loose sand.
Upon printing, the molds and cores are readily extracted from the build area for cleaning
to get rid of loosened sand. These molds are complete for molding, and upon casting, they get
split apart, where the ultimate metal element is extracted (Bournias-Varotsis 670). The most
significant benefit of sand casting mores and molds is the massive size of Binder Jetting, and the
production of complex geometries at low cost is possible. Also, the integration of the process
into the ongoing foundry of manufacturing processes is pure and without alteration.
The other categories of 3 dimensional printing technologies encompasses the Metal
Binder Jetting that is used in the fabrication of metal objects using metal powder and polymer
binding agents. Also, the Direct Laser Sintering (DMLS) or the Selective Laser Melting (SLM),
the production process is similar to SLS, however, the difference that DMLS gets applied in the
productions of metal parts. (All3DP) Also, there is the Electron Beam Melting (EBM), a model
that utilizes great energy electrons or beam to prompt a union amid metal powder elements.
Most Popular 3D Printing Technology
There are many types of 3D printing technology around the globe. However, FDM
printing technology is the most popular and preferable 3D printing technology across the world,
followed by SLS and SLA.
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Fig 4 FDM Image

The FDM 3D printing technology bases on extrusion. The main reasons why it is the most
preferred include:
a. Low Costs
The low costs of FDM technology propel its choice is the low costs and the technique's
user-friendliness. When compared to different 3D technologies of printing, FDM is much
less expensive. For organizations, it is critical to know whether the production of items
using 3D printing procedure is less costly than using the conventional method of
production (Dddrop). The powder that is utilized in SLS and the fluid for SLA are
expensive, for instance. Interestingly, for the material that gets used in FDM technology,
the fiber, costs are a lot of lower. Therefore FDM innovation is increasingly appealing to
numerous organizations.
b. A wider range of Materials
Since the scope of filaments is broad, organizations can switch materials economically
and effectively. Organizations can likewise decide to, at the same time, print a massive
number of materials (Dddrop). This makes printing it possible to print complex models,
because the extra print head is utilized as support material, for example, PVA or HIPS.
Additionally, printing with a large number of colors is possible.
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Fig 5 Material for FM Printing

c. Little or No Time Consuming
Apart from the FDM, the other types of 3D printing technologies require a lot of time to
do the post-processing. No one would need more time to clean the extra powder or being
cautious with expensive inputs when handling FDM, as it is the case in other 3D printing
technologies (Dddrop). There is very little to be done in FDM technology when it comes
to post-processing or even no post-processing at all. The creation is always complete for
use.
d. Accessibility
It is easy to access FDM technology as compared to the rest of the remaining 3d printing
technologies. From practice, it is quite clear that most firms and individuals tend to get to
use FDM technology at a faster rate and the easiness of transporting it than other types of
3D printing technologies (Dddrop). As a result, the ease of accessibility of FDM
technology appeals to corporates having no or little experience in the 3D printing
business, together with other organizations that have experienced 3D printing technology
in their processes.
The future of 3D Printing Technology
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Impact on the Manufacturing Sector

Additive manufacturing or 3D printing can democratize the creation of commodities,
from foodstuff to clinical supplies, to extraordinary coral reefs. Later on, 3D printing machines
could advance into homes, organizations, catastrophic places, and outer space
3D Printing Technology and the Marginalized. As this innovation spreads, it could help associate
hard to reach and the marginalized individuals with essential items. With everything taken into
account, this rising innovation can revolutionize the societal setup, and change the development
section. For such development to take place, humans must guarantee that this upcoming
technology gets under the control of development specialists and the rest of the critical partners
all over the globe (Humanitarian Practice Network). The Sustainable Development Goals convey
a significant guarantee for the future of the planet and the people. Objectives this large will
require enormous changes to succeed. 3D printing is being utilized to advance vast numbers of
global purposes and can have a further effect.
Transformation of Medical and Humanitarian Response
3D printing likewise is being utilized to get vital essential services and commodities to
rescue camps, hazard stricken regions, permitting stakeholders and partners to access the items
they have to recuperate (Humanitarian Practice Network). For instance, in Nepal, the United
Nations is actualizing 3D printing as a feature of their arrangement to respond to earthquakes,
encompassing individualized printing parts of pipes essential for infrastructural sanitation. 3D
printing is likewise empowering necessary and new clinical instruments to get under the control
of individuals who need them, from clinical prospects such as the 3D printed artificial heart to
fundamental apparatuses like umbilical cord clips.
Planet Protection
3D printing is additionally permitting humans to utilize old materials in new ways that
are progressively sustainable. For instance, scientists have discovered the method of converting
carbon dioxide into concrete utilizing 3D printing technology. The use of waste products to make
future commodities causes the general public to have a more proficient utilization of
commodities. 3D printing pioneers are in any event, investigating how to make the procedure
increasingly sustainable, this includes the use of algae-based fibers to cut down on the required
energy for the printing procedures (Humanitarian Practice Network). The imaginative utilization
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of materials and production techniques widens additional opportunities as the society approaches
sustainable living and climatic actions to save the planet earth.
Accessibility to All
The United Nations is continually working with researchers, and programmatic
implementers in ensuring the 3D printing transformative technology can easily be accessed to
many individuals globally. Presently, the UN is primarily restricted to specialized labs, and
technical colleges and universities, more so in the countries that are developing from the third
world (Open BioMedical Initiative). Although the realization of the technological possibilities is
the goal of the United Nations, these technologies must be brought into limelight and in the
hands of the essential stakeholders and the local change agents for progress to be made. The
agencies of the United Nations, such as UNICEF, are utilizing their resources and reach in
helping the attainment of this 3D printing technological reality.
Conclusion
From the discussion, it is quite clear that 3D printing technology is the process of creating
solid objects that are three dimensional from a digital file. The achievement of a three-
dimensional object gets done by utilizing additive processes. The additive process of printing
involves placing down materials in continuous layers to the full creation of the item designed.
Importantly, many 3D printing technologies include Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM),
Stereolithography (SLA), Digital Light Processing (DLP), Masked Stereolithography (MSLA),
and Selective Laser Sintering (SLS). Also, there is Material Jetting (MJ), Drop on Demand
(DOD), Sand Binder Jetting, Metal Binder Jetting, Selective Laser/Direct Metal Laser (DMLS),
and Electron Beam Melting (EBM). Amongst these technologies, the most commonly preferred
technology is Fused Deposition Modeling because of the low costs of onboarding the technology
and the low priced inputs. Also, the availability of a wide range of material data makes it
accessible in the industry in addition to the little time spent in printing and post-processing
stages. The accessibility to this type of technology is easy compared to other techniques of three-
dimensional printing and, thus, the high rate of preference in the industry. Worth noting is the
future of the 3D printing technology, it looks bright. It would be of significant importance in the
manufacturing industry as corporates would manufacture essential goods and commodities to
develop human livelihood and reaching outer space. Besides, this technology would positively
impact the medical and humanitarian sectors, protection of the earth through the recycling of
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wastes. Also, it would be accessible to all populations of the world through the efforts of the
United Nations.
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