A 3D print is a physical model that you can examine factors such as size, shape, appearance, and feel of.

3D printing is a broad name given to a group of rapid prototyping processes which operate in much the same manner.

How it works

The prototypes are created with the data from a 3D computer model. The part is divided up into very thin layers, the 3D printer then deposits material in the shape of that layer. The model lowers a small amount and a next layer is printed on top. By the time the printer has finished you have a real version of whatever was on the screen.

Types

The different types of 3D prints vary in the areas of material, layer thickness, and accuracy. The types of material available include wax, epoxy resin, glass filled nylon, and ABS plastic. All the materials are basically rigid and a little more brittle than traditional plastics.

In situations where you need the product to be a different material than the 3D print, you can usually achieve the desired result through silicone tooling.

The 3D prints can be painted, detailed, and made to look very professional, their comparative low cost and short lead time make them an ideal for many prototyping situations.

"A handy feature of 3D printing is it has no shape limitations. You can print shapes that could never be made any other way."