Hello guys, 
Ever wanted to print something other than a flat picture, something like an object? Before, this was quite impossible. But with the invention of 3d printers, that is a problem of the past.
WHAT IS 3D PRINTING
3D printing or additive manufacturing is a process of making three dimensional solid objects from a digital file. The creation of a 3D printed object is achieved using additive processes. In an additive process an object is created by laying
down successive layers of material until the object is created. Each of these layers can be seen as a thinly sliced horizontal cross-section of the eventual object. 3D printing is the opposite of subtractive manufacturing which is cutting out / hollowing out a piece of metal or plastic with for instance a milling machine.3D printing enables you to produce complex (functional) shapes using less material than traditional manufacturing methods.
EXAMPLES & APPLATIONS OF 3D PRINTING
Applications include rapid prototyping, architectural scale models & maquettes, 3D printed prosthetics and movie props. Other examples of 3D printing would include reconstructing fossils in paleontology, replicating ancient artifacts in archaeology, reconstructing bones and body parts in forensic pathology and
reconstructing heavily damaged evidence acquired from crime scene investigations.
Education
Educators and students have long been using 3D printers in the classroom. 3D printing enables students to materialize their ideas in a fast and affordable way.
Primary & High Schools 3d printer manufacturers have taken up a more direct role in education. Companies often undertake programs to promote
technologies. These programs serve as a cheaper way for schools to make 3D printers available for use in class.
There are many educational courses one can take to gage with 3D printing. Universities offer courses on things that are adjacent to 3D printing like CAD and 3D design, which can be applied to 3D printing at a certain stage. In terms of prototyping, many university programs are turning to printers. There are specialisations in additive manufacturing one can attain through architecture or industrial design degrees.
Rapid Prototyping
Manufacturers can use 3D printers in their design process to create prototypes. Using 3D printers for these purposes is called rapid prototyping .
Why use 3D Printers for Rapid Prototyping?
In short: it’s fast and cheap. For example, Nike uses 3D printers to create prototypes of running cleats. They used to spend thousands of dollars (and wait weeks) on a prototype before they could hold it in their hands. Now, the cost is only in the tens or hundreds of dollars, and changes can be made instantly on the computer and the prototype reprinted on the same day.
Rapid Manufacturing
Besides rapid prototyping, 3D printing could also used for rapid manufacturing . Rapid manufacturing is a new method of manufacturing where companies are using 3D printers for short run / small batch custom manufacturing. In this way of manufacturing the printed objects are not prototypes but end user products.
Automotive
Car manufacturers, restorers and repairers have been employing 3D printing for a long time. Automotive industry experts only expect the use of AM technologies to grow in the coming years. Companies are using it to produce not just parts, but tools and interior elements. It has also enabled on-site development, leading to a decrease in dependence on foreign manufacturing.
Even though large-scale manufacturers are the dominant users of 3D printing, other types of automobile enthusiasts are making their mark as well. Motorcar engineers all over the world are using printed parts to restore old cars.
Architecture
Architects were one of the early adopters of 3D printing technology. When architects need to present their work as a physical scale model, 3D printing will always be a quick and efficient way to do it. 3D printers help cut down manpower and time when it comes to visualizing designs for clients.
Accessories / products
3D printers are great for making trinkets and tiny add-ons for our daily lives. Jewelery printing is perhaps the best example of this. This is another niche within 3D printing. 3D printing has been on the periphery of the fashion world.
Medical
The outlook for medical use of 3D printing is evolving at an extremely rapid pace as specialists are beginning to utilize 3D printing in more advanced ways. Patients around the world are experiencing improved quality of care through 3d printed implants and prosthetics never before seen. Even 3D printing pens are helping out in orthopaedic surgery.