Aspects To Take Into Account When Buying A 3d Printer

3D printing is changing the industry of manufacturing. Experts consider it to be disruptive and believe that it will soon be widely adopted. However, it can remain a challenge for decision-makers to make a purchasing decision. Managers aren't aware about the most important factors to take into consideration when purchasing commercial 3d printer commercial 3d printer, and so are prone to making bad buying decision.

There are numerous 3D printer options available that only increase the difficulties of picking the most appropriate one. Numerous technologies have been created for specific purposes of 3D printing, which is a broad term. An industrial 3D printer is not suitable for dental uses and reverse.

In collaboration with industry experts, we have curated some of the key things to think about when buying a 3D printer. This will assist you to choose the most suitable 3D printer for your need.

Application

The first thing to consider when buying the best 3D printer is to determine the main purpose for 3D printing that you want to use it for. Are you planning to use it for hobby, home, prototyping industrial, or for specialized reasons like jewellery, dentistry or gifting. Much will depend on this element. Different technologies are suitable for various applications. Selecting the best printer for your needs will make 3D printing a effortless process.

Material Compatibility

Material compatibility is also an important consideration when purchasing a 3d printer under 100. The item should be 3D-printed using the right technology in order to be utilized in a particular application. Material must have the required properties to perform according to the specifications.

Build Volume

The area of printing is called the volume of build. It is important to consider the size of print which will be used the most often when choosing the right printer. It's not feasible to purchase a huge printer that will take on the various sizes of prints. The printer cost increases and could affect the quality of smaller delicate prints. If large prints are needed in smaller quantities and are outsourced, they may be.

Printers that use SLA/DLP, for instance are smaller than other print volumes. If you need larger prints, an SLA printer is not worthwhile at the price. An FDM or SLS printer that has an increased size can print a part that is slightly rougher than standard. It can be processed to give a smoother appearance. The appropriate trade-off has to be achieved while making such decision.

Material Availability & Cost

The library of materials for nearly all 3D printing technologies is increasing every day. However, the material properties of each technology vary. So, carefully analysing the type of parts you will be printing in the future using your 3D printer, and the materials required to print them will help you in understanding what technology is the most suitable material for your needs.

FDM filaments are readily available easily around the globe at a reasonable cost. However, certain materials such as flame retardant metallic and polymers might not be readily available and may require significant time to obtain, which can increase the time required to produce and the price.

The cost of materials is another aspect to be considered when buying the 3D printer, which could increase the price of prototyping. The cost of powdered materials is high and might not be suitable for certain industries. Powdered material also has an expiration date that is limited, the unused powder cannot be used after it has gone through four printing cycles.

Resolution

Resolution has a direct effect on printing very small details and also the finishing of the printed item. A high resolution 3d printer printer with a high resolution will easily print tiniest of features, and the thickness of the layer will be less creating a smooth that is finished. A 3D printer with high resolution is a great investment.

Other Things to Consider When Buying an 3D Printer

One-color or full-color

This may not be the most compelling element to take into consideration when purchasing a 3D however it could be helpful if you are into printing 3D images, characters, figurines or even gifting items. If your final product requires coloring, this could be the best way to avoid this step.

Exclusive Chopping Software Program

Many of the most well-known 3D printer makers offer their own slicing software. The benefit is that these programs are fully compatible with their 3D printer and as a result you always get good results when printing.

You can't depend on proprietary software if you don't own your own slicing software. These are excellent, but not calibrated for your specific 3D printer. 3D Printer brands such as Ultimaker, MakerBot, Formlabs and many other brands also offer their software suite along with their 3D printers.

Conclusion

It isn't easy to purchase the right 3D printer, especially for those who aren't knowledgeable about the technology. Many customers end up purchasing the wrong printer for their particular purpose.