What Materials Are Used for 3D Printing?
Sandra Morales
When you start a 3D printing project, you may be wondering: “What materials are used to create objects?” Several common materials are used, including plastics, metals, and carbon fiber. But which one should you use? How will you know which one is right for your project? Read on to learn more about these materials. And be prepared for a world of possibilities! Here are a few examples of the most popular materials used for 3D printing.
Carbon fiber
The use of carbon fiber in 3D printing has many practical applications. It can be used to reinforce aircraft wings and next-generation rockets because of its lightweight properties, which increase fuel efficiency and increase range. Carbon fiber composites are also a favorite material for sporting goods companies, particularly those that cater to professional athletes. Other places where carbon fiber 3D printing is used are robotics and factories. Here are some reasons why.
Plastics
The growing market for 3D printing services has created a number of opportunities for recycling plastics. The process of 3D printing can use a wide range of thermoplastic materials as printable filaments. While the process does cause some decomposition of plastics, these changes are similar to those in non-recycled materials. In some cases, melted plastic or unsuccessful prints can be reused. In other cases, plastics are recycled and reused in new applications.
Metals
The process of creating three-dimensional objects using layers of different materials is called 3D printing. It is an efficient way to create complex objects without the use of traditional casting techniques. Using liquid metal injection molding (MIM) technologies, manufacturers are able to print metal parts. Aluminium, for example, is a good choice for this purpose because it is lightweight and provides good resistance. These properties make it useful for aeronautics and the automotive industry. Steel, meanwhile, is a common choice for industrial applications because of its mechanical properties and good surface finish. Hence, steel is the most commonly used metal for 3D printing.
Ceramics
A new generation of materials is being developed for use in 3D printing, such as ceramics. A Hong Kong team has created a material that is both pliable and strong, allowing it to be printed within five hours. A mixture of ceramics and polymers is used in this material, which makes it softer yet durable. Ceramics have high thermal resistance, which makes them ideal for use in heating apparatuses and propulsion technology.
Wood
Wood has been used in 3D printing for decades to create a variety of objects. The powder of wood is typically around 30% wood fiber and 70% PLA. The wood particles are then mixed with binders to create a mixture that can be printed using a 3D printer. The wood powder is then used to build 3D objects, which are then assembled into a finished product. A 3D printer is able to see through the layers, making them highly flexible and durable.
