Why choose 3D Printing for Mechanical Parts?
Suppose you are not entirely familiar with 3D Printing for mechanical parts and the application areas in other sectors. In that case, you probably think that 3D technology can only be used to have fun at home with friends.
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However, people often don’t know that 3D Printing makes it possible to create high-precision mechanical parts like prototypes, which become functional in the SME sector for entrepreneurs and experts in the field, such as mechanical engineers.
3D Printing becomes the best ally for all professionals who need to create customised items for their machinery, thus significantly reducing the lead time.
The result will be the creation of small parts made through 3D Printing in less time, so companies no longer have to wait endless hours before getting the proper objects for their needs.
In the coming years, the additive printing method will be used more and more and precisely for this reason, it is a good idea to stay up-to-date with the latest developments in the 3D industry.
What is possible with a 3D printer?
The 3D printer is functional in a company’s plant because it enables the production of tools used in production lines, such as assembly brackets and jigs.
Although it is used to make these mechanical elements, the 3D printer is also functional in the production phase; moreover, the service can be delegated to third parties.
What is one of the main advantages of 3D Printing for mechanical parts? One positive element in the creation phase of on-demand printed articles is the possibility of not generating overproduction. This translates into a net reduction of inventory, which has always been a very costly aspect of a company’s balance sheet.
And that’s not all: using the 3D printing service allows a reduction in production costs, a fundamental element especially in a delicate economic period such as the one companies are going through at the moment.
In addition, the same printed object can be reprinted on a commission basis when it has reached obsolescence without requiring a stock of spare parts.
Often, companies produce and sell products that must comply with specific technical and aesthetic characteristics to meet customer needs.
To do this, 3D printing services can be used: even if the items you apply for are large and complicated, a good 3D printer can create the right components to assemble to make the perfect product.
The objects created using a 3D printer are often mechanical parts, small parts so small that they are difficult for the consumer to see with the naked eye.
Some examples of mechanical parts are components to be inserted into a shell, spacer casings or even air ducts.
These items must be custom-made because they must be in a specific shape to fit the rest of the structures to which they will be applied. Moreover, items made with a 3D printer are often subjected to particular tests before being mass-produced.
Therefore, a 3D printer answers business and customer demand, reducing production costs and lead times and increasing the facility’s earnings.
3D Printing: an unmissable technological innovation
3D printing technology allows companies to obtain unique products capable of performing the same production functions as always but with extra gear.
As a result, mechanical parts in different shapes and materials (such as resins, metals, and plastics) can be commissioned.
In each case, the realisation of the parts will be based, above all, on the needs and economic availability of the company that decides to use the 3D printing service.
3D printing with Fine Polyamide: precise and versatile objects
Many mechanical parts can be manufactured using fine polyamide, a type of plastic called PA12. When is this material preferred? First, fine polyamide is perfect for beginners and those who work constantly in the 3D printing industry.
The advantages of Printing with PA12 powder are related to the high precision and low cost of the products manufactured using its technology.
Plastic—a mouldable material—allows for many modifications according to customer requirements, enabling prototyping.
In addition to the standard mode, customers opting for the exemplary polyamide 3D printing service can choose the option that best suits their needs from various printing methods. For example, you can select a mechanical finish to strengthen your mechanical parts, while if you want a more attractive design, you can choose an aesthetic mode.
The material used in the Multijet Fusion printers allows mechanical parts to be printed with fine detail, which is suitable for use in many professional environments.
LPBF metal 3D printing: mechanical parts for every sector
3D Printing for metal is used in various sectors – even very different – such as dental and aerospace. In the case of the former, for example, 3D Printing will be perfect for making dental braces or nickel-chrome parts, as well as the crowns and rods that support these instruments.
In the aerospace sector, on the other hand, aluminium is preferable. This material is essential for ensuring a high dynamic load capacity. This ensures simplified post-processing and the production of mechanical solid parts for even the most complex machinery.
Moreover, 3D printing of this type makes it possible to produce mechanical parts that are not subject to corrosion, thanks to using stainless steel for certain processes. As a result, high-performance components, which are essential for assembling jewellery, watches, and electronic housing elements, will be obtained.
Thanks to Tool Steel, a particular type of high-speed steel with good thermal conductivity, the customer can produce unique mechanical items as spare parts or in small series.
Two positive elements of metal stamping are undoubtedly the time and the low price. It only takes a few minutes to obtain a functional product, thus considerably reducing production costs.
3D Printing with PEEK: solid and durable elements
PEEK is a plastic polymer whose structural characteristics enable the creation of devices with strong resistance to heat and mechanics.
In addition, PEEK is a very light element, which is why it is particularly appreciated for creating mechanical parts that require a smooth structure.
As a result, many professionals have made products from metallic materials and have relied entirely on 3D Printing using this polymer.
The positive elements of this material can indeed be found in its low costs and efficient results, with a particular focus on its durability, which does not change its appearance over the years.
PEEK is highly appreciated for producing mechanical parts because it passes stress tests and is resistant to abrasion and cutting. Finally, this polymer allows excellent dimensional stability. What does this mean? Mechanical parts made from PEEK will always perform well, even if the environmental conditions they will be inserted change, for example, due to a change in temperature or humidity.
3D Printing with Photopolymerisation (FPM): SLA and DLP
Another type of additive procedure is one that uses photopolymerisation. What does this technique consist of? FPM makes it possible to produce mechanical parts and other small parts in resin, obtaining small parts essential in the mechanical field, especially if the aim is to create an efficient, high-quality, cost-effective product.
Typically, 3D Printing with FPM is used in design because it allows functional items to be produced, but this does not exclude its use in other fields where mechanical parts are needed.
Thanks to the four-colour function, this three-dimensional printing technology allows you to play with colours, producing unique items with numerous nuances.
This is especially useful for creating chromatic harmony between one component and another – for example – functional machines, but also more aesthetically pleasing because they are only one colour.
In standard methods, photopolymerisation is used in the mechanical field for 3D Printing. It can be categorised into SLA and DLP, which have some aspects in common but differ in their rendering.
In any case, the photopolymerisation technique produces cost-effective products that do not require post-print processing.
1) SLA – StereoLithography Apparatus
SLA, an acronym for StereoLithography Apparatus, designates stereolithography, a method in which materials called resins undergo a curing process by spraying heat and reacting chemically to light exposure.
When resins are subjected to light, polymerisation occurs: at a specific wavelength, very short chains of molecules within these materials come together and form firm structures, which may be rigid or flexible.
How are resins used in the manufacture of mechanical parts? They are favoured for creating small parts such as snap-on components, prototyping, furniture hinges, and mechanical laboratory equipment.
2) DLP – Digital Light Processing
DLP, also known as Digital Light Processing, is a printing technique that, like the SLA method, uses liquid resins exposed to a light beam.
This three-dimensional additive process is faster than SLA, but both boast biocompatible materials and high resolution.
Digital Light Processing and photopolymerisation generally provide a more precise 3D printing method than other techniques, allowing for customised design devices well suited to customers’ needs.
The finish obtained for mechanical parts is less labour-intensive, so the production time is also reduced. This allows for a rapid change of materials used for Printing and speeds up processes.
Who to rely on for an effective 3D printing service?
When you print your mechanical parts, you may think you need to purchase a particular machine for your company. This is often a costly and space-consuming choice, especially if your facility is small.
To remedy this problem, numerous companies on the market offer 3D printing services.
To do this, you must analyse the companies in your area, paying particular attention to the technical team’s proven experience. It is impossible to produce efficient mechanical parts if you do not first know the specific characteristics that the items and materials they are to be printed must possess.
Another element to consider is economics. Although the 3D printing service is the best choice for obtaining quality mechanical parts, it is advisable to talk to the company offering it. This way, you can establish your budget and get the desired product without exceeding the established price range.
You may be wondering how to get the best 3D printing service: fear not, we are here for that!
You will realise how important it is to turn to experts in the field who can meet your requirements.
Only those in the 3D printing market can produce the right mechanical parts for you while ensuring maximum attention to detail and safety throughout the production phase.
FAMA 3D is the right company for you if you want to make your items with the 3D printing service.
Do you need to create ad hoc mechanical parts with 3D Printing? Then you are in the right place! You can contact us by dialling our toll-free number or email: we are always available to answer all your requests.
You will receive all the information you need to know about the 3D printing project we have designed for your needs and to obtain a quote on your mechanical parts.
What are you waiting for? Contact us!