Manufacturing with a 3d Printer

Pros:

• Material Variety:

  • FDM supports a wide variety of materials with different properties, including flexible, heat-resistant, and chemically resistant filaments.

• Cost-Effective:

  • FDM printers and materials are generally more affordable compared to SLA, making it accessible for hobbyists and small businesses.

• Ease of Use:

  • FDM is relatively easy to use and maintain, with straightforward post-processing that often involves simple support removal and minimal sanding.

• Strength and Durability:

  • FDM prints can be very strong and durable, suitable for functional parts and mechanical applications.

Cons:

• Lower Resolution:

  • FDM generally produces lower resolution prints with visible layer lines, which may require post-processing to achieve a smoother finish.

• Print Quality:

  • FDM prints can suffer from issues like warping, stringing, and layer adhesion problems, particularly with certain materials.

• Complex Geometries:

  • While FDM can handle complex designs, intricate details and fine features may not be as sharp or accurate as those produced by SLA.

• Weak along the Z-axis:

  • Due to the way 3d printers work, each layer is just stacked on top of each other, meaning that there will always be one weaker axis on the part.

Pros:

• High Precision and Detail:

  • SLA is known for producing very high-resolution prints with fine details and smooth surface finishes, making it ideal for detailed prototypes, jewelry, and dental models.

• Surface Finish:

  • SLA prints have a smooth surface finish right out of the printer, reducing the need for post-processing.

• Complex Geometries: 

  • Can produce complex shapes and internal structures that are difficult or impossible with subtractive methods.

• Material Efficiency: 

  • Minimal waste since material is only used where needed.

• Rapid Prototyping: 

  • Quick turnaround from design to part, ideal for prototypes and custom parts.

• Customization: 

  • Easily allows for custom and on-demand manufacturing without the need for new tooling.

• Tooling Reduction: 

  • No need for custom molds or jigs, reducing upfront costs.

Cons:

• Post-Processing:

  • SLA parts require significant post-processing, including washing in isopropyl alcohol and curing under UV light to fully harden the resin.

• Material Costs:

  • Photopolymer resins used in SLA can be more expensive than FDM filaments.

• Limited Material Properties:

  • SLA resins can be brittle compared to FDM materials, making them less suitable for functional parts that require flexibility or impact resistance.