With recent advances in technology, 3D printing is fast becoming increasingly popular. A recent report states that the 3D printing market is expected to double each three years. Analysts generally forecast an annual growth rate of 18.2 percent to 27.2 percent. It also states that SMEs are the main users of 3D printing online services, representing over 75% of the world's client base.

In other words 3D printing is no longer the domain of specialty shops or people with deep pockets. As 3D printing technology becomes accessible, a growing number of small business owners are making use of it. A 3D laser scanner can be a home appliance, as a fridge, or microwave.

It's not a "plug-and-play" device. Therefore, regardless of whether you're an amateur or a veteran 3DIYer, choosing the best 3D printer can seem like an overwhelming task. Here are six essential factors to be aware of when choosing the right 3D printer.

Choose the Best Printing Technology

Some resin 3d printer uses the same printing process. Here are some of the most sought-after printing methods using polymers with their strengths and weaknesses.

Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM)

FDM is the most simple and most common printing method. It's also known as Fused Filament Fabrication (FFF) or Plastic Jet Printing (PJP). This type of printer typically prints an object in layers, through extruding a long length plastic filament (like ABS or PLA filament) through the nozzle that is heated. The printing process starts at the bottom , and then moves upwards.

Stereolithography (SLA).

SLA uses a special liquid plastic printing material called photopolymer resin. Usually, an ultraviolet laser solidifies layer upon layer of printing material to create the part. SLA-based 3D models provide a high level of resolution. This process is also quicker than FDM and SLS. It is a preferred choice for models and designers. It's a costly process that requires additional post-processing steps like cleaning and curing.

Selective Laser Sintering (SLS)

SLS makes use of the laser to melt or fuse powdered materials such as polystyrene, silicates and even metal to create an object. It is able to produce high-details while printing. This is why it is a great choice for industrial design applications. However, it is the most costly printing method.

Find the material that is compatible

A filament is a kind of 3D printing materials that look similar to cables. It is used for extrusion-based resin 3d printer 3d printer price, which is the most popular technology that is used by desktop computers. You can find dozens of different kinds of printing materials available.

However, ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) and PLA (Polylactic Acid) are the two most popular filaments. Both materials can be repeatedly heated and cooled to achieve the desired shape since they are thermoplastics.

ABS

Derived from fossil fuels, ABS is durable, strong and has high temperature resistance. It is therefore an ideal choice for professionals such as mass manufacturing 3D components for finishing. It is a strong odor and a resemblance to burning plastic. It is also not biodegradable.

PLA

Made using renewable resources like sugarcane or corn, PLA is biodegradable. It is also possible to print objects that have small layers and sharp corners with PLA. It is possible to select from a variety of colors. It is the reason why many hobbyists and individuals choose it over ABS. However, it is known to be prone to clogging since it can be stringy, and is not the most durable material available. ABS PLA and PLA can be found in filaments, or spools with thicknesses of 1.75mm to 3 millimeters.

Other

You can also choose from other options like Nylon Resin, Nylon, Wood (a mixture of recycled wood and an adhesive polymer), HIPS (High Impact Polystyrene), PVA (Polyvinyl Alcohol), Carbon Fiber, ASA (Acrylic Styrene Acrylonitrile), and many more including metals. Metals, engineering grade plastics and other more specialty materials require stronger equipment (e.g. 3D printers with high temperatures, hardened nozzles).