Nowadays, technology is evolving at a much higher speed than ever before, and 3D technology is no different. However, using a 3D machine can be tricky for most individuals as they start familiarizing themselves with the device.
As a newbie, you will need some assistance when learning how to use a 3D printer, especially when dealing with large 3D printers designed for industrial purposes. However, as time progresses, you will find out that using a 3D printer is relatively easy. In this article, we shall be discussing how hard is it to use a 3D printer.
Using a 3D printer
Before discussing how hard it is to use a 3D printer, it will be best we explain how it works to identify how hard it to use it is. Usually, 3D printers are used in creating 3D parts using a digital file. Creating a 3D print will be achieved through the use of additive processes. The additive process is where it is created by laying down various layers of material until you entirely establish the design.
As previously mentioned, 3D printers are relatively easy to operate once you master them. To print a 3D object, you will need a PC, 3D printer and a 3D model that you would like to print. To commence on the process, you will have to download a 3D file into your computer then save it as an STL file. For extra modifications, you might consider using slicing software. Insert your SD card into the slot of your printer and commence printing.
With a 3D printer, you will be able to come up with complex shapes, designs, and products using fewer amounts of materials and less time when compared to the traditional manufacturing process.
How hard is it to use a 3D printer?
The primary reason why you would want a 3D printer is designing just about anything with it. Using a 3D printer is relatively simple; however, it is difficult to comprehend it unless you see one in action.
3D printers print using filaments, which are often plastic that goes through a heated printhead and starts building your project layer by layer until it entirely comes to life. You can use it to design simple things from plastic cubes to intricate designs as parts of a bike.
Despite using a 3D printer being relatively easy as previously mentioned, how complicated can it be to use one will highly depend on the type of 3D printer you are using and the type of 3D model you are designing. However, you will not require knowledge of CAD or a degree in industrial design in order to operate a 3D printer.
What you should know about 3D printers as a beginner
As previously mentioned, operating a 3D printer can be challenging for beginners; however, as time goes, they will find it to be relatively easy. Yet, this will be determined by various factors, including the type of 3D printer you are operating and the 3D model you are designing. Here are some key things you should know concerning 3D printer as a beginner;
Creating your models
The type of model you create will determine the work and effort you will have to put into it. Even 3D experts sometimes find it challenging creating complex models. Therefore, it is best to develop models that will be easy for you to tackle; however, this should not stop you from challenging yourself in creating complex models as you progress in 3D printing.
Material used in printing
There are two types of material you can use in printing a 3D model; Poly Lactic Acid (PLA) and Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS). Both of these materials are soft and malleable, which makes it easy to use while designing a 3D model. However, PLA is ideal for creating simple models such as household items. On the other hand, ABS is highly flexible and robust, which makes it suitable for creating complex models such as Lego bricks.
The type of your 3D printer
This will highly determine how easy or challenging your 3D printer will be when in operation. There are various designs of 3D printers available in today’s market, and their complexity differs from one 3D printer to the other.
Why is 3D printing essential?
If you utilize a 3D printer accordingly, you will find it to be very beneficial, and you can use it to accomplish various things. Nowadays, modern technology has made 3D printers very efficient, making it ideal for producing intricate designs and coming up with new ideas as well as products. Here are some key reasons as to why 3D printers are essential;
1. Speed.
3D printers feature incredible speed, which is necessary when it comes to saving time. Speed is the reason as to why people are taking advantage of modern technology.
2. Cost-effective
Printing or designing things using a 3D printer is affordable. Furthermore, it eliminates machine costs as well as material and manpower costs.
3. Creative designing
With a 3D printer, you will be able to create intricate designs; this will give you the freedom to create new ideas with zero production error. Moreover, you will have an opportunity of evaluating your sophisticated design while creating it.
4. Highly sustainable
Sustainability is one of the vital advantages of a 3D printer. Usually, a 3D printer operates using raw materials that can be recycled and used in constructing other products.
Final verdict
As we come to a conclusion, you should always keep in mind that operating a 3D printer is relatively easy. However, this will highly be determined by the factors we had discussed in our article. When you fail while trying for the first time, you should remember that even individuals who are experts in 3D printing at times fail while trying to design some complex 3D models.
All it takes is for you to be comfortable with the machine and maximize its functionality as time goes by. The best thing with a 3D printer is that it will only take you a few days before mastering it and use it in making money. You should never lose hope; it is best to give it time before masterminding everything in a 3D printer.
