3D Printing Process and Materials
Using the 3D printing process, physical objects or parts of objects can be constructed from a 3D design file with absolutely no waste. Using this methodology, individual products can be created using an automated process with production enabled for one at a time fabrication rather than batch manufacturing. This type of processing is also known as additive manufacturing. Objects are constructed layer by layer. In a far more effective and less wasteful manner than that required by traditional engineering methods, no tooling is required. It's a completely different approach.
A small sampling of printable materials are concrete, ceramics, metals, foods, biological materials and plastics. Individual products such as sneakers and clothing items can be created at school or in your home; or parts of an assembly such as and automobile engine can be printed and integrated.
Project Survey
Some projects that have been fabricated using a3D printer are an eccentric yet functional light weight bicycle made from nylon powder but having the strength of steel or aluminum, multiple auto replacement parts, and a 1:33 model of a fibrerous home reported by the architectural site, Inhabitat. One of the more amazing constructions is that of a human jaw designed using a 3 dimensional scan as a design source for lean manufacturing. This new jaw is providing an 83 year old woman with a much needed replacement. Other printed medical solutions for stem cells, veins and hip replacements are possible.
3D printing is a well-established technology moving from prototyping into production. With lower prices, users are becoming more widespread as 3D printers become more common in school and home settings. The Wall Street Journal recently examined how Ford, GE and Mattel are using 3D printing to cut costs and production times for prototype development.
Ford uses 3D printing to create cylinder heads, brake rotors and rear axles for test vehicles. Because of this technology, fuel-efficient EcoBoost engines can be produced in 25% to 40% of the time. GE uses this technology for production of certain parts and saves close to 30% on the manufacture of their ultrasound probe.
3D Printing and Lean Manufacturing Outlook
In the future, Ford believes its customers will be able to print replacement parts for their vehicles at a local 3D printer in a matter of hours or even minutes. Mattel engineers use dozens of 3D printers to create parts of entire toy production lines, including popular brands such as Barbie, Hot Wheels cars and Monster High dolls.
With lean manufacturing, there is minimum waste and the potential for cost reduction in product development. With the costs of 3D printers declining, now is the time begin thinking about how you can use this technology to become more efficient.
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