What is 3D printing?

3D Printers are part of a new generation of concept modeling technology that has emerged in the last few years. Taking geometry data straight from traditional CAD modeling and 3d animation software, the machines are capable of producing solid, highly detailed, self supporting, functional prototypes.

What are the different types of 3D printing?

Three main types of 3D printers are available; those that operate much like a 2d plotter, cutting and gluing veneers of thin plastic film; powder based systems such as the Z Corp range; and polymer based machines such as those produced by 3D Systems.

What is good or bad about each system?

‘3D Plotters’ (such as the InVision LD) are affordable to buy and run and the parts produced are strong and durable. The downside is accuracy and surface finish.

Powder based systems are fast and produce fairly accurate models, some even in colour. The downside is a fairly ‘fluffy’ surface finish and fragility of the final output.

Polymer based systems such as the InVision SR and HR) boast the highest accuracy and surface finish, and because of the material's plastic like quality it is possible to sand, paint, and even screw into the parts. The downsides include slower build times and slightly more expensive material costs.

How long does it take to produce a model?

In general the time taken to build a model is dependant upon geometry volume and complexity. A general rule would be .5cm an hour in the Z axis.

What is the maximum size that can be produced?

The average printer volume is roughly the width and depth of a A4 piece of paper with a height of 20cm

How much does it cost?

The cost of producing a 3D model can be anything from £100 to £1000. Duplicates work out cheaper overall, since the cost of a single model includes initial outlays.

How durable are the models?

Printer materials are developing all the time, with the polymer based systems able to produce outputs that closely match ABS plastic, this makes the models very durable. Strength combined with a certain amount of flexibility stops small details becoming brittle.

Do I need to construct a 3D mesh in a particular way?

The standard file format for 3D printing is .stl. Ideally models should be closed or ‘water tight’ meshes with no intersecting polygons. However our software is capable of cleaning up and verifying the data before we build it. For more information take a look at our printing guidelines.

Which industries are using these models?

Traditionally the target markets include product design, architecture and jewelry design. Inition have also worked with independent artists and sculptors, heritage firms and parties involved in urban planning.

If I want to buy a 3D printer what would be the cost?

3D printing systems range from £10,000 to over £50,000.