3D printing or additive manufacturing has been around since the 1980s. This technology has evolved tremendously and become accessible more than ever. The benefits and advantages of this breakthrough technology have been recognized across different industries around the world.
Today, 3D printing technology is no longer exclusive to several manufacturing firms and research laboratories in Australia. 3D printing Melbourne has the potential to revolutionize and transform the way things are designed and manufactured, allowing all businesses and individuals to design and produce their products faster at a lower cost.
From testing and designing to final production, 3D printing became a crucial part of the manufacturing process with accelerated lead times at the least possible cost while reducing material waste and saving energy.
Professional 3D Printing Services in Australia
By offering countless opportunities, 3D printing has taken the world by storm. In Australia alone, this technology became a crucial part of various industries that have industrial in nature. From home-based printing to large-size production, 3D printing is the go-to and prevalent technology everywhere. Both entrepreneurs and professionals utilize 3D printing for their functional prototyping and rapid manufacturing needs. The technology helps them turn their ideas to life with precision and urgency.
One of the most successful and matured markets is the professional and commercial 3D printers and services. A proof of this well-off market is the presence of numerous 3D printing companies that offer 3D printing solutions to professionals, individuals, and large manufacturing companies.
In addition, some of them partnered with renowned manufacturers to offer 3D production systems that cater to large team solutions with increased productivity, accuracy, and efficiency than low-end 3D printers.
3D Printers VS. 3D Production Systems
The current market for 3D printing can be classified into two product segments, namely the 3D printers, labeled as “low-end” and 3D production systems, also labeled as the “high-end”.
However, it is important to note that the low-end and the high-end labels have something to do with the price that buyers have to pay in terms of the quality and performance of these machines.
To avoid any confusion with regards to the distinction of these labels, there are distinguishing factors that can help buyers in determining which product class or segment is suitable for their needs and applications.
When planning to purchase additive manufacturing machines, it is crucial to consider these distinguishing characteristics.
Price
• 3D printers: $10,000 to $50,000
• 3D production systems: $50,000 and above
Capacity / Build Envelope
• 3D printer: Normally less than 10” x 10” x 10”
• 3D production system: Normally greater than 1’ x 1’ x 1’
Materials
• 3D printers: One or two
• 3D production systems: Eight or more
Speed
• 3D printers: Not applicable
• 3D production systems: Not applicable
Ease of Use
• 3D printers: Occasional user
• 3D production systems: Trained operator
User Options
• 3D printers: Minimal
• 3D production systems: Substantial
Accuracy
• 3D printers: Acceptable to Good
• 3D production systems: Good to Excellent
Facilities
• 3D printers: Office-like environment
• 3D production systems: Lab or shop environment
Centralized Operations
• 3D printers: Distributed
• 3D production systems: Centralized
Overhead
• 3D printers: Minimal
• 3D production systems: Moderate to high
3D Printing Melbourne: Where to 3D Print
Currently, there are still businesses that choose to outsource their 3D printing rather than doing it in-house despite the dramatic decrease in prices of high-quality printers.
To meet these demands, many 3D printing companies in Melbourne offer various services for entry-level and large team solutions. The best place to start is to go online and search for reputable companies that offer the best additive manufacturing services for professional and commercial use.
Anyone can get a free quote online for their projects by uploading their 3D files on the company’s website or talking to their experienced sales representative for expert advice.