6 Core Methods of 3D Printing: A Complete Guide for Every Need

3D Printing, O produzione additiva, has evolved from a niche prototyping tool to a versatile solution for industries ranging from aerospace to jewelry. But with so many technologies available, how do you choose the right one? The key lies in understanding the methods of 3D printing—each with unique principles, punti di forza, e casi d'uso ideali. Whether you’re a hobbyist making desk models, a manufacturer producing metal parts, or a designer crafting intricate jewelry, this guide breaks down the six most common 3D printing methods to help you solve your specific challenges.

1. SLA (Stampaggio fotopolimerizzabile): Precision for Intricate Designs

SLA, short for Light Curing Molding, is a resin-based 3D printing method that excels at creating highly detailed, smooth-surface parts.

Come funziona

SLA usa un laser beam to cure liquid photosensitive resin layer by layer, following a CAD (Design assistito da computer) file. The resin hardens when exposed to the laser, Costruire la parte dal basso verso l'alto. A platform lowers slightly after each layer, allowing the next layer of resin to be cured—like drawing with light in liquid.

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Caso d'uso nel mondo reale

A jewelry designer needed to create a custom ring with tiny floral engravings. Using SLA, they printed a resin prototype in 4 hours—with every petal and leaf detail intact. The prototype was then used to make a mold for metal casting, saving weeks of hand-carving time. For anyone needing fine details and smooth finishes, SLA is the go-to method.

2. SLS (Sintering laser selettivo): Versatilità tra i materiali

SLS, or Selective Laser Sintering, stands out for its ability to print with a wide range of materials—from plastics to ceramics—making it a favorite for industrial applications.

Come funziona

SLS uses a high-powered laser to “sinter” (riscaldare e fusibile) powdered materials layer by layer. A differenza di SLA, it doesn’t need liquid resin; Invece, it spreads a thin layer of powder (PER ESEMPIO., nylon, metallo) across a build platform. The laser fuses the powder in the shape of the part’s cross-section, and unsintered powder remains to support the part—no extra support structures needed.

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An automotive manufacturer needed to test a new gear design for a hybrid car. Using SLS with nylon powder, hanno stampato 10 gear prototypes in 24 ore. The parts were strong enough to withstand test runs, and since no supports were needed, the team avoided time-consuming post-processing. Per multi-material, parti funzionali, SLS delivers.

3. SLM (Filting laser selettivo): High-Strength Metal Parts

SLM, or Selective Laser Melting, is often confused with SLS—but it’s designed specifically for metals, creating fully dense, high-strength parts for demanding industries.

Come funziona

SLM uses a laser to sciolto polvere di metallo (PER ESEMPIO., titanio, acciaio inossidabile) completely, rather than just sintering it. This full melting results in parts with the same strength as traditionally manufactured metal components. Like SLS, it uses unsintered powder for support, but the process requires tighter temperature control to avoid warping.

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Aerospace engineers needed a lightweight, strong bracket for a jet engine. Using SLM with titanium powder, they printed a bracket that was 30% lighter than the traditional aluminum version—without losing strength. The bracket’s complex internal channels (for cooling) would have been impossible to make with CNC machining. Per high-performance metal parts, SLM is unmatched.

4. Lom (Layered Solid Manufacturing): Low-Cost Prototyping

Lom, or Layered Solid Manufacturing, is a budget-friendly method that uses sheet materials (like paper or plastic film) to create simple prototypes.

Come funziona

LOM cuts sheet materials into the shape of the part’s cross-section using a laser or blade. Each cut layer is glued to the one below it, building up the 3D part. The excess material around the part acts as support, which is removed after printing.

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A furniture designer wanted to test the shape of a new chair before investing in woodworking. Using LOM with paper sheets, they printed a full-size chair prototype in 8 hours—costing just $20 nei materiali. The prototype let them adjust the chair’s curves for better ergonomics, without wasting expensive wood. Per economico, quick design verification, LOM is perfect.

5. FDM (Fused Deposition Manufacturing): Accessible for Everyone

FDM, or Fused Deposition Manufacturing, is the most common 3D printing method—used by hobbyists, scuole, and small businesses for its low cost and ease of use.

Come funziona

FDM melts a thermoplastic filament (PER ESEMPIO., Pla, Addominali, Petg) through a heated nozzle, then deposits the melted plastic layer by layer according to a CAD file. The nozzle moves along X/Y axes to draw each layer, and the build platform lowers for the next layer. Supports are needed for overhangs (PER ESEMPIO., a figure’s outstretched arm).

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A high school STEM class wanted to build robot parts for a competition. Using FDM printers with PLA filament, students printed gears, parentesi, and robot arms—each part costing less than $5. The printers were easy to operate, and students could iterate on designs in a day. Per hobbisti, istruzione, or small-scale prototyping, FDM is the most accessible choice.

6. 3Dp (3D Printed Molding): Fast Colorful Models

3Dp, or 3D Printed Molding (also called binder jetting), is a unique method that creates colorful, low-cost models by bonding powder with adhesive.

Come funziona

3DP uses a ugello to spray a liquid adhesive onto a layer of powder (PER ESEMPIO., malta, ceramica). The adhesive bonds the powder in the shape of the part’s cross-section, e il processo si ripete fino al completamento della parte. It can even print in color by adding pigment to the adhesive.

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A toy company wanted to test a colorful action figure design. Using 3DP, they printed a full-color prototype in 6 hours—with the figure’s red cape, blue body, and yellow accessories all printed at once. The prototype let them test consumer reactions to the color scheme without spending on paint. Per veloce, colorato, non-functional models, 3DP is ideal.

How to Choose the Right 3D Printing Method?

With six methods to pick from, the best choice depends on your needs. Usa questa guida rapida:

La prospettiva della tecnologia Yigu

Alla tecnologia Yigu, we help clients across industries pick the right 3D printing method. For hobbyists/schools, we recommend FDM for its affordability. For industrial clients needing metal parts, SLM or SLS works—we often pair SLS with nylon for functional prototypes to cut costs. For high-end jewelry or dental models, SLA delivers unmatched detail. We also guide clients on post-processing: SLA parts need resin cleaning, while SLS needs powder removal. The key is matching the method to your budget, materiale, and precision needs—3D printing’s power lies in its versatility.

Domande frequenti

1. Which 3D printing method is cheapest for beginners?

FDM is the cheapest—entry-level printers cost \(200- )500, and PLA filament is \(15- )30/kg. It’s also easy to learn, making it perfect for beginners.

2. Can any 3D printing method make metal parts?

Only SLM and SLS (with metal powder) make metal parts. SLM is better for high-strength, dense parts (PER ESEMPIO., aerospaziale), while SLS metal parts are less dense (good for non-critical components).

3. Which method is best for full-color 3D prints?

3Dp (Binder gettatura) is the only method that prints full color directly. Other methods need post-painting—e.g., FDM or SLA parts can be painted, but it adds time and cost.