3D Printing has become one of the most exciting forms of interactive technology in manufacturing. This is especially true for printer project enthusiasts, model builders, DYI'rs and many more. Although 3D printers are nothing new, the technology has advanced rapidly over the past few years not only with the printers themselves, but much more so with the materials they print with. Engineers and scientists first began working with this awesome piece of equipment around 1983 and the technology just took off from there. This 3D printer buying guide will discuss your buying options. Over the past 25 years, printing processes have been scaled and refined into user-friendly systems. 3D printers now offer advanced CNC controllers and optimal software systems. They directly produce complete and usable parts.

There Are Nine Major Technologies Among 3D Printers.

1. Binder Jetting (BJ)
2. Digital Light Processing (DLP)
3. Electronic Beam Melting (EBM)
4. Fused deposition modeling (FDM)
5. Laminated object manufacturing (LOM)
6. Material Jetting (MJ)
7. Stereolithography (SLA)
8. Selective Laser Sintering (SLS)
9. Selective laser melting (SLM)

In this 3D printer buying guide, we will focus on the two 3D printers that are most commonly used in the home. Material extrusion is the most popular process. Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) and Stereolithography (SLA) are considered to be the best for home users. An FDM 3D printer deposits single layers into a fused 3D object. An SLA printer has a high-powered laser that hardens the liquid resin and creates the desired 3D figure. This 3D printer buying guide is for professionals and hobbyists who are considering investing in this awesome technology. So what kind of 3D printer should you consider? You need to determine why you want a 3D printer. The type of printer that you choose will be determined by
your ultimate printing goals. Determine what type of capabilities you need. For example, ask yourself what type of resolution your printing projects call for. What printer speed do you need? The type of material that you plan to print with may determine the bed size needed. Some printers solely print text. Others have graphic capabilities. The machine that you choose will be determined by your expectations as a user. In most cases, a salesperson’s overall goal is to get
you to buy. It is not wise to buy on impulse.

Consider the following 3D Printer Features:

  • Printer cost
  • Print quality
  • Print speed
  • Printer capability
  • Practicality
  • User expectations

Where is the best place to buy? Right here at Southern Fab!

Once you have considered all other factors, you will want to check prices. Entry Level 3D printers range from $100 to $300. These versions are usually small and cheap and can only print with a very limited range of materials. They are for DIYers who desire an inexpensive way to custom print. These types of 3D Printers are normally sold as kits and require assembly. They often can be and need to be modified for improvement. This may be a viable option for makers who don't mind putting in the time and patience that it takes to upgrade a printer.

Stepping up, hobbyist and entry-level printers range from $300 to $1,500. They are often more reliable and have better capabilities and speeds. These types of printers are suited well for hobbyists, model makers and beginners. You will find that the higher quality printers are on the upper end of this price range. Once the price of these 3D printers increases, the limits in decrease. Most in this category can use a variety of materials without modification.

Professional and performance 3D printers are very advanced. They range anywhere from $4,000 to $25,000. These printers can be used for daily and hourly manufacturing. They are suitable for a wide number of materials including some metals. The highest performing 3D printers are for business and industrial use. The base price for these types of printers starts at more than $10,000 and of course overall, you can save as much as 20 to 50% by purchasing a used 3D Printer.

At Southern Fabricating Machinery Sales, Inc. we know 3D Printing and offer the best selection in Industrial grade desktop and laboratory equipment. Give us a call at 813-444-4555 to discuss your 3D printing needs in detail, or simply contact us below for more info. 

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