How are 3D Printers Impacting the Field of Engineering?
Today, 3D printers give engineers the freedom to innovate and iterate at every stage. It lets the engineers try new prototypes, address problems and find solutions to potential problems. Engineers across the world are using the technology to make a drone lighter, print electronics directly and creating casting molds for the future. Unlike traditional manufacturing where different parts are made using different materials, 3D technology allows the manufacturing companies to create prototypes, which saves time and money. The engineering sector is benefiting from the additive manufacturing and helping them reach their target audience seamlessly.
Here are a few ways how the additive manufacturing technology is creating an impact in the field of engineering.
3d printers Create prototypes for production
From building visual prototypes to functional prototypes, 3D printers are used for automating and reducing the labor required to develop models for design validation. Conventional molds typically cost around $180, but 3D printed molds cost less than $50. The worst aspect of traditional molds is that the first prototype is never the last one because engineers have to redesign it again and again. It’s difficult to build a compelling business because engineering companies waste a lot of time in creating prototypes. Furthermore, everyone from CEO to clients gets frustrated when they have to wait for the design. With the additive manufacturing technology, engineers can build a reputation and produce the products without delaying it.
3d printers Use diverse materials
Mixing different raw materials is not ideal for mass production as it can become a costly affair. Furthermore, matching the physical and chemical properties of various raw materials is a tedious task. The additive manufacturing technology allows the use of diverse materials such as plastics, metals, paper, biomaterial, ceramic and gold. With various materials at the disposal of engineers, engineers can craft any product and molds they have in mind. Having access to a vast production system, engineers have control over scheduling the manpower, production and controlling the type of raw materials. The benefits of additive manufacturing are likely to revolutionize the engineering sector in the coming years.
3d printers are being used in civil engineering
3D printing is poised to have a dramatic impact on buildings, architecture, manufacturing and building design. Using the additive manufacturing, companies in China are successfully printing houses and empowering engineering to experiment with geometry, shapes, and architecture of the houses. Furthermore, it will help engineers approach the problem in a holistic environment, and they can come up with interesting and innovative solutions.
Beneficial in mechanical engineering
The technology empowers the mechanical engineering companies to produce objects with more complex structures in a jiffy. In the coming years, it will become the go-to manufacturing process for different areas. From using it in shop floors to production houses, the technology is lending a helping hand in the mechanical engineering field. It reduces the time required for manufacturing, which enhances the productivity. However, the use of 3D printers is at a very nascent stage in mechanical engineering, and it is likely to improve in the coming years.
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