Category: Guides

Additive manufacturing, also known as 3D printing, is a rapidly growing field that has revolutionized the way products are manufactured. By using a computer-controlled process, parts, and products can be produced layer by layer, making it possible to produce highly complex shapes and geometries. The design of the final product is a critical component of the additive manufacturing process, and it is essential to consider various design strategies and techniques to ensure a successful outcome.

Design for Additive Manufacturing Methods

Design for additive manufacturing (DfAM) methods refer to the design techniques and strategies that are used to optimize products for production using additive manufacturing techniques. In this process, various design strategies are used to reduce material waste, improve part performance, and make the production process more efficient. The engineering design rules of additive manufacturing are an essential component of the DfAM process and help ensure that the final product is of high quality and meets all design requirements.

Additive Manufacturing Processes

There are seven main additive manufacturing processes, including Stereolithography (SLA), Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM), Selective Laser Sintering (SLS), Directed Energy Deposition (DED), Binder Jetting, Material Jetting, and Sheet Lamination. These processes differ in the type of material they use, the way the material is added, and the final result they produce.

It’s important to note that additive manufacturing and 3D printing are not the same things. While 3D printing is a specific type of additive manufacturing, it is a subset of the larger group of additive manufacturing processes.

Designing for Manufacturing

Designing for manufacturing (DfM) refers to the process of designing a product with the end manufacturing process in mind. This process involves four factors to design for manufacturing, including material selection, production processes, design complexity, and design for assembly. The five principles of design for manufacturing are used to guide the design process and ensure that the product can be manufactured efficiently and cost-effectively.

There are four main types of manufacturing methods, including batch production, flow production, job production, and continuous production. The most popular additive manufacturing method is Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM), which is a type of batch production.

Design Strategies

There are three main design strategies used in additive manufacturing, including topology optimization, generative design, and lattice structures. The four elements applied in creating a product design are form, function, aesthetics, and sustainability. The two basic types of design methodologies are form-based design and function-based design.

Engineering Design

Process The engineering design process involves seven steps, including problem definition, concept generation, concept selection, design development, testing and analysis, design optimization, and design implementation. The four engineering design process steps are: empathize, define, ideate, and prototype. There is also an eight-step engineering design process, which includes research, testing, evaluation, and implementation.

Design Principles

Design principles refer to a set of guidelines that help guide the creation of aesthetically pleasing and effective designs. These principles are based on the collective knowledge and experience of designers and are used to ensure that designs are visually appealing, communicate the intended message, and meet the needs of the target audience. The Four C’s of Design (Creativity, Context, Communication, and Collaboration) and the Four Basic Elements of Design (Line, Shape, Texture, and Color) are both important concepts in the field of design.

The Four C’s of Design refer to the key elements that designers must consider when creating a product or service.

1. Creativity: Refers to the ability to generate new and innovative ideas and concepts that meet the needs and requirements of the project.
2. Context: Refers to the surrounding circumstances or conditions that affect the design, including the intended use, cultural and social factors, and the target audience.
3. Communication: Refers to the ability to convey the intended message effectively through the design, including the use of visual and verbal elements.
4. Collaboration: Refers to the process of working together with other stakeholders, such as clients, manufacturers, and experts, to achieve a common goal.

The Four Basic Elements of Design refer to the fundamental components used to create visual compositions.

1. Line: Refers to the continuous mark made on a surface by a moving point. Lines can vary in length, width, direction, and texture, and can be used to create structure, movement, and emphasis in a design.
2. Shape: Refers to the two-dimensional areas defined by lines or borders, and can be geometric or organic. Shapes can be used to create contrast, balance, and hierarchy in a design.
3. Texture: Refers to the surface quality or feel of an object, and can be achieved through the use of patterns, materials, and visual elements. Texture can add depth and interest to a design, and can also convey a sense of touch.
4. Color: Refers to the hue, saturation, and brightness of an object or surface, and can have a significant impact on the visual appeal and emotional response of a design. Color can be used to create contrast, harmony, and mood in a design.

These elements can be used in combination to create visually appealing and effective designs that communicate the intended message and meet the needs of the target audience. The principles of design, such as balance, contrast, hierarchy, and unity, can also be applied to help guide the creation of effective designs.

Four Ms of Production

The Four M’s in Production Planning are a critical aspect of the production process and are used to ensure the successful and efficient production of a product. The Four M’s are:

1. Men: Refers to the people involved in the production process, including workers, managers, supervisors, and support staff. It also includes the skills and experience of these individuals and their ability to carry out the necessary tasks.
2. Machines: Refers to the equipment and machinery required to produce the product. This includes machine tools, assembly machines, inspection equipment, and other specialized machinery. It also includes the maintenance and upkeep of these machines to ensure they are in good working order.
3. Methods: Refers to the production processes and procedures used to produce the product. This includes the steps involved in the production process, the order in which they are performed, and the methods used to control the quality of the product.
4. Materials: Refers to the raw materials, components, and supplies required to produce the product. This includes raw materials, purchased components, packaging materials, and other supplies. It also includes the sourcing, purchasing, and management of these materials to ensure they are available when needed.

By considering the Four M’s in production planning, manufacturers can ensure that the production process is efficient and effective, and that the product is produced to the highest quality standards. This can help to reduce costs, increase productivity, and improve customer satisfaction.

DfAM Tools

One of the popular DfAM (Design for Additive Manufacturing) tools is nTopology. nTopology is a cloud-based design and engineering platform that provides a comprehensive suite of tools for optimizing and automating the design process for additive manufacturing. It helps designers and engineers to quickly create complex, high-performance parts while reducing the time and costs associated with traditional design methods.

nTopology is a software platform used for engineering and design optimization. It provides a range of tools for simulation, analysis, and optimization of products and manufacturing processes. The platform combines generative design, simulation, and high-performance computing to enable engineers and designers to quickly explore and evaluate design options, and make informed decisions about material selection, manufacturing processes, and product performance.

The software offers several features, including topology optimization, generative design, and lattice structures, allowing designers to create products that are optimized for strength, weight, and functionality. It also has a material library that allows designers to select the right material for their product, and a simulation engine that helps designers to evaluate the performance and strength of their designs.

With its user-friendly interface and powerful design tools, nTopology is a popular choice among product designers and engineers who are looking to create high-quality, optimized parts for additive manufacturing. Whether you are designing a new product or optimizing an existing one, nTopology can help you to create products that are optimized for additive manufacturing, reduce costs, and increase productivity.

nTopology Alternatives

There are several alternatives to nTopology for Design for Additive Manufacturing (DfAM) tools. Some of the popular ones include:

1. Autodesk Fusion 360: A cloud-based design and engineering platform that provides a comprehensive suite of tools for product design, engineering, and manufacturing.
2. SolidWorks: A popular 3D design software that provides tools for 3D modeling, simulation, and documentation.
3. ANSYS Discovery Live: A real-time simulation platform that provides interactive simulations for product design and engineering.
4. Onshape: A cloud-based CAD software that provides a complete design and collaboration platform for product design and engineering.
5. SIMULIA XFlow: A computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulation software that provides simulation tools for design and engineering.
6. 3D Systems Geomagic: A design and engineering software that provides tools for product design, scanning, reverse engineering, and inspection.

These are just a few of the alternatives to nTopology, and each one offers a unique set of tools and features to support the design and engineering process for additive manufacturing. When choosing a DfAM tool, it’s essential to consider your specific needs and requirements to find the best solution for your design process.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the design for additive manufacturing is a crucial aspect of the 3D printing process. Understanding the various design strategies and techniques, such as topology optimization, generative design, and lattice structures, can help ensure a successful outcome. It is essential to consider factors such as material selection, production processes, design complexity, and design for assembly when designing a product for additive manufacturing. Additionally, the engineering design process, including the seven steps and the four C’s of design, should be followed to produce a high-quality product. Finally, the four M’s in production planning – men, machines, methods, and materials – must be considered to ensure a smooth production process. With these principles and strategies in mind, designers can create products that meet all design requirements and are optimized for additive manufacturing.

Multi Jet Fusion (MJF) is a type of 3D printing technology that uses a combination of inkjet printing and heating to produce objects with high accuracy, resolution, and strength. Developed and commercialized by HP Inc., MJF technology is revolutionizing the way products are manufactured and designed. In this article, we’ll explore the details of Multi Jet Fusion, including its unique features, benefits, and applications.

What is Multi Jet Fusion (MJF) Printing?

Multi Jet Fusion (MJF) printing is a technology that uses a series of inkjet print heads to lay down small drops of a fusing agent and a detailing agent on a layer of plastic powder. The material is then melted and fused together by heat to form a solid object. Unlike other 3D printing technologies, MJF uses a combination of inkjet and thermal energy to produce parts with high precision, strong mechanical properties, and a smooth surface finish.

What Makes Multi Jet Fusion Unique?

One of the main advantages of Multi Jet Fusion is its ability to produce parts with a high level of accuracy and resolution. With a layer thickness of just 20-50 microns, MJF is capable of producing parts with fine details and sharp edges. Additionally, MJF is capable of printing large objects with a high degree of repeatability, making it ideal for applications in various industries, including aerospace, automotive, and medical.

Another unique feature of Multi Jet Fusion is its use of a special PA12 plastic powder. This material is known for its high strength and durability, making it ideal for a wide range of applications. Moreover, PA12 is a thermoplastic, which means it can be melted and reshaped multiple times without losing its mechanical properties.

Differences between Multi Jet Fusion and Selective Laser Sintering (SLS)

Selective Laser Sintering (SLS) is another popular 3D printing technology that uses a laser to fuse particles of plastic, metal, or ceramic into a solid object. While both SLS and Multi Jet Fusion produce parts with strong mechanical properties, there are some key differences between the two.

For one, SLS is limited to using only specific materials, while Multi Jet Fusion is capable of using a wide range of plastics, including PA12, which is known for its strength and durability. Additionally, MJF is capable of producing parts with a high level of accuracy and resolution, while SLS is more suited for producing large objects with complex geometries.

How much does a MJF printer cost?

The cost of a Multi Jet Fusion (MJF) printer can vary widely depending on several factors, including the size of the printer, its features and capabilities, and the vendor you purchase it from. Generally speaking, MJF printers are more expensive than entry-level Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) printers, but less expensive than other high-end technologies such as Selective Laser Sintering (SLS) or Stereolithography (SLA).

As a rough estimate, you can expect to pay anywhere from $50,000 to $500,000 or more for a Multi Jet Fusion printer. It’s important to note that the cost of operating an MJF printer, including the cost of materials and maintenance, should also be taken into consideration when making a purchasing decision.

Multi Jet Fusion (MJF) 3D printers are commercial-grade, industrial-level machines designed to produce high-quality, high-resolution parts. There are several different models of MJF printers available on the market, each with its own unique features and capabilities.

One popular MJF printer model is the HP Jet Fusion 3D 4200, which is designed for mid-volume production and offers a large build volume of 420 x 420 x 380 mm. The HP Jet Fusion 3D 4210 is another popular model that offers similar capabilities but with a smaller build volume of 300 x 300 x 300 mm.

For large-scale production, there’s the HP Jet Fusion 3D 5200, which is capable of producing parts up to 500 x 500 x 500 mm. This machine is ideal for manufacturers who require high-volume, high-quality production capabilities.

Another popular MJF printer model is the HP Jet Fusion 3D 5600, which is designed for high-volume production and offers a build volume of 600 x 600 x 400 mm. This machine is ideal for manufacturers who require large parts and high-volume production capabilities.

In addition to these models, there are also other MJF printers available on the market, each with its own unique features and capabilities. To determine the best MJF printer for your needs, it’s a good idea to work with a vendor that specializes in 3D printing to determine the best solution for your needs and budget.

What is Multi Jet Fusion printing?

Multi Jet Fusion (MJF) printing is a type of 3D printing technology that uses a combination of heat and fusing agents to produce high-quality, high-resolution parts. It’s a powder-based technology that uses a print head to selectively melt and fuse small layers of material into a solid object.

In MJF printing, a thin layer of powder material is spread evenly across a build platform. The print head then melts and fuses specific areas of the powder, solidifying the material and building up the final object layer by layer. After each layer is fused, more powder is spread over the surface and the process is repeated until the final object is complete.

MJF printing is known for its high-quality, high-resolution parts that are comparable to injection molded parts. It’s also capable of producing parts with complex geometries, and it’s well-suited for producing large, high-volume production runs.

Overall, MJF printing is a versatile, high-performance 3D printing technology that’s ideal for a wide range of applications, including product design and development, prototyping, and end-use production.

What materials are used in multijet fusion?

Multi Jet Fusion (MJF) printing typically uses a proprietary powder material that is specifically designed for use with the technology. One of the most commonly used materials is PA12 (Polyamide 12), which is a type of thermoplastic that is known for its high strength, flexibility, and durability.

PA12 is a popular choice for MJF printing because it offers good thermal stability, making it well-suited for use in high-heat environments. It’s also resistant to abrasion and chemicals, making it ideal for applications that require high wear resistance and durability.

In addition to PA12, there are also other materials that can be used with MJF printing, including PA11 (Polyamide 11), TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane), and PC (Polycarbonate). These materials offer different properties and are well-suited for a variety of applications, including prototyping, product design, and end-use production.

It’s important to note that not all MJF printers are compatible with all materials, and it’s a good idea to work with a vendor that specializes in 3D printing to determine the best material for your needs and budget.

Is Multi Jet Fusion Plastic Waterproof?

Multi Jet Fusion plastic (PA12) is a thermoplastic that is resistant to water and moisture. However, it is not fully waterproof and can be affected by prolonged exposure to water or high humidity. If you need a part that is fully waterproof, you may consider using another material or adding a waterproof coating to the surface of the MJF part.

The Strongest Plastic in the World

The strength of plastic can vary greatly depending on the type of material and its application. However, some of the strongest plastics in the world include PA12 (used in Multi Jet Fusion printing), PEEK (Polyetheretherketone), and PEI (Polyetherimide). These materials are known for their high strength, durability, and resistance to heat and chemicals, making them ideal for use in various industries, including aerospace, medical, and industrial.

The Strongest 3D Printed Plastic

One of the strongest 3D printed plastics is PA12, which is used in Multi Jet Fusion printing. PA12 has a high strength-to-weight ratio and excellent mechanical properties, making it ideal for applications in industries such as aerospace, automotive, and medical. Additionally, it offers a high level of accuracy and resolution, making it possible to produce parts with fine details and sharp edges.

How Does Multi Jet Fusion Work?

Multi Jet Fusion works by using a combination of inkjet printing and heating to produce parts. The process starts with a layer of plastic powder being spread across a build platform. A series of inkjet print heads then lay down a fusing agent and a detailing agent on the powder. The material is then melted and fused together by heat to form a solid object. The process is repeated layer by layer until the entire object is complete.

What is Multi Jet Fusion Also Known As?

Multi Jet Fusion is also known as HP Multi Jet Fusion or simply HP MJF. This name reflects the fact that the technology was developed and commercialized by HP Inc.

Why is Multi Jet Fusion the Best?

Multi Jet Fusion offers several key advantages that make it one of the best 3D printing technologies available. First, it offers high accuracy and resolution, making it possible to produce parts with fine details and sharp edges. Additionally, it uses a special plastic powder (PA12) that is known for its high strength and durability, making it ideal for a wide range of applications. Finally, Multi Jet Fusion is relatively fast, making it possible to produce parts quickly and efficiently.

Conclusion

Multi Jet Fusion (MJF) is a powerful and versatile 3D printing technology that offers a number of unique advantages. Whether you’re producing complex geometries, fine details, or high-strength parts, MJF is an excellent choice for a wide range of applications. If you’re interested in learning more about Multi Jet Fusion or HP 3D printing, contact us today to speak with one of our experts.

Making money from 3D printing might seem challenging but if you are persistent and you know enough about the business there is room for you as a 3D printing businessperson. Whether you are a beginner or you want to maintain your 3D printing business, below are some tips that might be suitable for you. First, let’s talk about some necessary tips that might help you if you are new in the business and just want to get started.

Learn as much as you can

It is always important to have enough knowledge in 3D printing, materials, and designs. Learn as much as you can about 3D printing and about starting a business. It is also a good idea to spend some time working in the industry before starting up your business.

Create a website

Don’t forget to create a website. WordPress enables you to build your website easily with available templates. You can add different plugins as well, which are proper and designed for 3D printing services. Here, you can read about different plugins and templates suitable for 3D printing.

WordPress for 3D printing

Add design service

Most people who use 3D printing services will ask for the design as well. You can either recruit a full-time designer or decide to work with freelancers. There are different websites in which you can choose to work with freelancers one of the most known websites is freelancer.com

first, you have to decide what kind of design service you are looking for, product designer, 3D modeling, or sketching designer. Then you can interact with them and start working with them and offer design services to your clients.

Branding in 3D printing

Branding in 3D printing is basically the same as branding any other business. There are some other things you should take into account for 3D printing.

First of all, you should know what a brand is. A brand is a combination of activities, the service you provide or produce that distinguishes you from the rest of businesses and attracts a specific target market. It includes your website design, logo, even the color of your brand to how you interact with customers and your mission. You should create your brand and specify your mission.

Content Marketing in 3D printing

Content marketing is a strategy in which you can attract viewers to your website and make sales. You can attract clients through the content you create. First of all, you should know about SEO and content marketing if you want to be noticed in digital media.

SEO for 3D printing services

SEO stands for Search Engine Optimisation. The goal is always to be the first result on google’s first page. To reach this goal you have to build a strategy and create your content thoughtfully to appear on the first page for your intended keywords and phrases.

There are different formats of content providing:

Infographics

Most 3D printing service customers are confused about manufacturing technologies and materials. Infographics help you provide your customers with concise and useful information about materials.

You can show statistics and graphs that might be useful for your customers in their area. Providing your customers with a graph of different topics such as “the growth of 3D printing in the last 5 years in medical equipment and implants” can help them get an instant overview. This type of content is easy to view so it is viewed more as well.

Videos and podcasts

Video content can be an amazing tool to help you get noticed more. They can be promotional o educational. You can create different videos whether it is educating people on the field of 3D printing or giving information about your company, its history, and the service it gives. You can also hold webinars and share the story of different customers who reached a certain goal in their own business or how your service helped their business enhance and get better. There are many platforms in which you can share these video content from your own website to youtube and social media from Instagram and Linkedin and Twitter.

Podcasts are growing more and more each day, there are different apps for podcasts such as Castbox and Spotify in which you can share information. This podcast can be the written content of for e.g. your blog posts or white papers customized for podcasts or interviews with a specialist in the additive manufacturing business.

Generating Knowlagebase for 3d printing service

Knowledge bases are self-serve online libraries of information about a product, service, department, or topic. 3D printing is almost a new industry so many of your clients probably do not know about the different technologies and materials and 3D printing in general; creating a knowledge base about the service you provide alongside the technology and material you use can be very helpful for both attracting customers and receiving fewer calls in your call center.

Use social media for your 3D Printing service

Social media is an important tool for the 3D printing business. The importance and basics of content marketing are explained in the last part. Social media is important for you to promote your brand. Social posts make your brand fresh for your customers. Also, You can use the paid ads in the platform and stay active in these platforms to attract the maximum clients and be noticed.

You can share photos of your designs or any other object you created or printed. Then promote them via social media, the web, and YouTube. It is always a good idea to get feedback from people and gain some reputation on different online platforms.

Customer Testimonial

3D printing business is mostly regarded as a B2B business; so you have to provide the 3D printers with a service used in their own business. B2B businesses have their own way of marketing and since most of your marketing strategy should be designed for this type, it is important to use testimonials which proved to be an effective method.

A testimonial is a piece of writing from your customers, mostly. They can share their experience of working with you. Keep in mind that it is best t shoot them in video format as it is more effective, you can share it on social media and YouTube, or your own website. Also, keep it short (around 30 seconds to a maxim of one minute) and real. Avoid exaggeration and making up unreal stories.

These customer testimonials can be shared as videos or blog posts on your website or social media platform.

Lead generation for 3d printing services

Lead generation means attracting customers and getting their contact information to make sales. After creating your brand and creating content, potential customers will reach your website;

You should encourage your customers to leave their contact information for you. You can do this when you are sharing an educational white papers or giving them  price quotations or simply when they visit the website. After getting the customer’s contact information you should note that you should choose the best time to contact and reach them and contact them when they’re ready.

Focus on your niche

When you are engaged in the business for quite a long time, you can get to know what you’re better at, we call this a niche in business. You can work in this field and spend most of your time in that area of expertise.

Conversion Funnel in 3D printing service

A conversion funnel is a term used in commerce which means different stages in a customer’s journey which lead to purchasing the product or service.

This term comprises three stages including “upper funnel”, “middle funnel”, and “lower funnel”. Observing and knowing each stage can help you increase your sales.

“Top of the funnel” or “Upper funnel” is a user that starts to look for a product without having a specific background of the exact needs of the product. In this stage, the customer searches different brands in order to find the most suitable one.

“Middle Funnel”: In this stage, users provide the brands with their contact information to know more about the product or brand.

“Bottom of the Funnel” or “Lower Funnel”: In this stage users have chosen their favorite brand and they look for information on their purchase. In this stage of re-marketing, techniques can help you sell your product or service.

One of the most important tasks for you as a 3D printing service marketer is to increase your users’ conversion rate which is very complicated. What percentage of those who uploaded the file registered the order? What percentage of those who placed the order returned and placed the order again? And questions like that.
Layers marketing tools help you measure your 3d printing service conversion rates.

Buy the right printer

Buying a printer is one of the most important things in a 3D printing service. Printing quality not only depends on your skills but also it is on the printer you use; so purchase the right printer for your business. You should first decide on the technology you want to use.

Tips on scaling up your 3D printing service business

Offer more technology and materials

There are various technologies that you can choose from. Buying and adding new technology and materials can be a good idea. Adding new technologies means buying a new printer so maybe it is better to think twice and look for less expensive methods to expand your business.

Work with more workshops

Working with more workshops enables you to offer a wider range of technology. Selling a 3D printing service as a broker can be a suitable substitute for expanding your business but not necessarily by buying new printers.

Purchase suitable software

There is some software that can help you in the 3D printing business in different ways: in this blog post, you can read about these softwares:

Useful software for 3d printing