3D printing, also known as additive manufacturing, is the process of creating a three-dimensional object from a digital model or CAD file. The process involves building up layers of material, such as plastic, metal, or cement, until the object is formed. There are several methods of material extrusion, but most commonly, the 3D printer will have a nozzle ejecting a semi-liquid material, like molten plastic, metal, or cement. The creation of a 3D printed object is achieved using additive manufacturing, which is the opposite of subtractive manufacturing that involves cutting out or hollowing out a block of material with a milling machine.

3D printing has rapidly evolved to not only print various polymers but also metals and ceramics, making it a versatile option for manufacturing. The technology has a wide range of applications, including creating toys, phone cases, tools, clothing, tables, lamps, pottery, art, and even cars. The medical field is also finding new ways to use 3D printing to help patients, such as printing 3D medical models that are so accurate that surgeons can essentially do a practice run on a patient’s 3D model before actually operating on that patient. 3D printed models are also being used to create less expensive, more durable, and better-fitting prosthetics for individuals who have lost limbs.

There are several types of 3D printers, including stereolithography (SLA), selective laser sintering (SLS), and fused deposition modeling (FDM). The technology has come a long way since its invention in the 1980s, and its uses are far more diverse today. 3D printing is used for the rapid creation of models, visual prototypes, functional prototypes, tools, quality gauges, spare parts, automotive parts, aerospace components, art, food, buildings, tissue and organs, prosthetics, clothing and jewelry design, footwear, custom products, sports equipment, military equipment, educational materials, and more.