Most people will have heard about the revolution in 3D printing technology. However, few will have researched the subject, and so it probably seems complicated. That couldn’t be further from the truth, and there are now many different applications for the tech. In this article, you will discover some interesting facts about how 3D printing came into existence, and where it’s going in the future. With a bit of luck, this information will encourage individuals and business owners to make use of the advancement. At the end of the day, it’s a neat concept that you’ll use more often as time progresses.
3D printing started with the use of lasers
It might come as a shock to some readers, but 3D printing began way back in the 1980s. Computers were used to trace patterns submerged in a liquid. Lasers were used to harden the pattern into a layer, and that’s how the first 3D products were created. The layering technique is still used today in many different industries. Also, most of the 3D printers you can buy on the market follow the same basic concept.
It’s possible to use 3D printers to create anything!
There are no limits on the products people can create with 3D printers. Some of you might have seen the scaremongering online coming out of the US in recent years. Manufacturers are concerned that anyone can now create a gun at home in a matter of hours. However, that isn’t likely to become an important issue. You can use the technology to print chocolate, bone scaffolding, and even jet engines. So, the applications for 3D printing in the future will only increase.
You can hold 3D printers in your hand
Some people might have encountered top rated 3D pens when looking online in recent times. Those products are geared towards the arts and crafts industries more than anything else. However, they show just how flexible the technology has become. Some of the first machines created were huge, and they weighed thousands of pounds. Today, you can get 3D pens that perform the same job at a fraction of the size and cost. Maybe they could help to improve those homemade greetings cards you like to send at Christmas?
3D printing reduces production waste
One of the best things about 3D printing is that people can reduce waste. When they create items from wood or metal, there are always offcuts. That simply isn’t the case when using these new devices. As the printer only develops the products to user designs, they eliminate 90% of the waste. That means manufacturers can save a lot of money while also protecting the planet.
As you can see from that info, there is a lot to learn about 3D printing technology. With a bit of luck, the general public will become more aware of the benefits as more bloggers write about the subject. It’s already changed the way in which some top manufacturing companies produce their products. Like it or not, 3D printing is here to stay, and it’s guaranteed to shake things up during the next few years.
