3D printing is one of the key technologies in our world today. If you’re looking for a more in-depth explanation, you’ve come to the right place. This article will tell you how 3D printing works, its role in the COVID-19 pandemic, and its future.
What Is 3D Printing?
3D printing is the process of melting plastic or metal and then printing an object layer by layer. The print starts with a 3D model made using 3D modeling software. You can make your very own model or even download it off the internet. There are quite a few high-quality models you can start printing for free.
To print, you need to upload the 3D model to the printer or use the specific software for the printer you have. Once the model’s information has been processed, the printer begins its layer by layer printing process.
Depending on the size, shape, material, or printer used, the printing process can take an hour to several days.
Industries That Use 3D Printing
The technology of 3D printing has been revolutionary in many fields.
3D printing in the construction industry comes in many shapes and sizes. Currently, multiple construction companies build houses using a 3D printer with concrete as the primary material.
In some of the most well-funded and advanced hospitals, 3D printing has found its place. It’s most notable use is in prosthetics. Hospitals can manufacture prosthetics in-house and with extreme precision. These hospitals can now give their patients fully customized prosthetics with this printing technology.
3D Printing’s Role In Covid-19
COVID-19 put the brakes on manufacturing worldwide. To combat the pandemic, face shields and PPEs have been in great demand. However, the supply can’t meet the demand with the manufacturing sector’s current state.
Because of 3D printing, people were able to help themselves with the PPEs they needed. They can now produce nasopharyngeal swabs, respirators, face shields, and other medical products on demand. And with the ability to share models online, everyone could make them as long as they have a printing machine.
3D Printing the Future
3D printing is still a technology in its gestation stage. It even has massive room for improvement, and it will definitely open a lot of possibilities. Its potential applications are endless.
Currently, people predict that automation and 3D printing will take over the manufacturing industry. The printers will be so advanced that it can print out complex appliances and devices, like smartphones, using one printer alone.
Hospitals will 3D print actual organs that can be used to save thousands of lives in the far future. The manufacturing industry might disappear, and people may only need to buy printers and filaments and get their pieces of furniture or appliances at the touch of a button inside their home.
3D Printing isn’t only a technology here to stay. It’s the one that will open new doors for humanity as we take another step into the future.