<h2 dir="ltr" id="isPasted">What is electroforming?</h2><a href="https://www.vecoprecision.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Electroforming</a> is a type of metal additive manufacturing method based on the electrodeposition process. In the simplest terms, this means that metal parts are built using a combination of conductive materials, electrolytic solutions, and electric currents. The electroforming technique is particularly well suited to the production of micro-precision metal parts that require tight tolerances and detailed features.&nbsp;In the electroforming process, a metal blank, known as a mandrel, is placed into a bath of electrolytic solution and two electrodes (an anode and cathode). An electric DC current is passed through the electrodes, which causes metallic ions in the solution to convert into atoms and attach themselves to the mandrel’s surface, gradually building up layers around it. When the desired thickness has been reached, the mandrel is removed from the electrolytic bath and the deposited metal atoms—bonded to each other—are removed from its surface. In the end, the shape of the mandrel determines the shape of the electroformed parts.Electroforming is overall an extremely effective and precise additive manufacturing technique for metal parts, with notable applications in components that require micro precision.&nbsp;This approach to electroforming uses a conductive metal substrate, a light sensitive coating, and UV light exposure to produce high precision parts. If we look at Advanced Lithographic Electroforming in more detail, the process consists of six steps:<ul><li dir="ltr">Cleaning: in this first step, a conductive metal substrate is cleaned and prepared for the electroforming process.</li><li dir="ltr">Coating: in this step, the metal substrate is coated with a light sensitive photoresist.</li><li dir="ltr">Exposure: UV-based Laser Direct Imaging then transfers an image of a part cross-section onto the substrate.</li><li dir="ltr">Developing: from there, the substrate is developed to process the image, rinsed and then dried.</li><li dir="ltr">Deposition: the metal substrate is placed into an electrolytic bath and a DC current is applied. The current causes metallic ions to convert into atoms and deposit themselves onto the developed pattern.</li><li dir="ltr">Harvesting: Once the right thickness of metal has been achieved, the electroformed part can be removed from the metal substrate.</li></ul><h2><img src="https://s3-us-west-1.amazonaws.com/wevolver-project-images/froala%2F1644959457028-EF+bath.gif" style="width: 788px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib">The electroforming process. Image credit: Veco</h2><h2>The exponential potential of micro-precision metal parts</h2>One particular area electroforming has proven advantages over other more conventional manufacturing processes, like machining, is in the production of micro-precision perforations. Micro-precision perforations—in other words, metal sheets or parts with extremely fine holes—are utilized in many applications in the food, electronics, and medical industries, among many others.The electroforming process is ideal for making such micro-perforations and offers several advantages. For one, electroforming is capable of producing perforations with extremely tight tolerances, with feature accuracy down to 1µm. It is also possible to produce very small perforations, with diameters as small as 2 µm, which would be impossible to achieve using machining or punching.Another benefit offered by electroforming is greater design freedom. Parts requiring micro-precision perforations can integrate various functional features that would be difficult to achieve using subtractive manufacturing, such as high-density perforations and holes with tapered cross-sections. The latter is characterized by an increasing diameter in each hole, which has benefits for filtration applications. Additionally, due to the additive nature of electroforming, micron-scale perforations can be made with perfect edges and no burring.Electroforming customers also have greater freedom to redesign micro-perforation structures at no additional cost. Because electroforming is a highly scalable process, it can produce one-off parts or multiple production runs cost efficiently. This enables designs to be easily prototyped, tested and updated, or for multiple different designs to be tested at once. Electroforming also therefore facilitates the transition from prototyping to production.<h2>The wide world of electroforming applications</h2>There are a plethora of applications for electroforming, with several falling into one of the following general categories: filtration, nozzle plates, electronics, and optical components.In the category of filtration, electroforming can produce micro-perforation structures for products like espresso machine filters, leaf filters in pressure filtration systems, and filtration screens for food manufacturing. With electroforming, filtration devices can be made with optimized apertures, including tailored perforation size, shape, surface, and edge. By carefully tuning each of these factors, filtration parts can achieve higher performances and reduce the risk of clogging.Electroforming is also used for the production of nozzle plates, including high-precision inkjet nozzle plates. In fact, most inkjet printer manufacturers opt for electroformed nozzle plates to achieve the highest print accuracy. Micro nozzle plates used for various dispensing applications—including fuel injection and medical nebulizers—are also made using electroforming. In this case, the manufacturing process enables the production of micro-scale perforations and a bell-mouth hole structure that enhances jetting performance.Applications for electroforming in the field of electronics are practically limitless: the technology is used to make parts for hearing aids, shaver foils for electronic grooming devices, nebulizer plates for drug delivery and research, various electronic testing tools like contactors, and more. In the production of components for electronic devices, precision is of the utmost importance, and electroforming offers the tolerances and high-quality needed. &nbsp;<img src="https://images.wevolver.com/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJ3ZXZvbHZlci1wcm9qZWN0LWltYWdlcyIsImtleSI6ImZyb2FsYS8xNjQ0OTU1ODIxNjY2LUJBU18wMTg5LmpwZyIsImVkaXRzIjp7InJlc2l6ZSI6eyJ3aWR0aCI6OTUwLCJmaXQiOiJjb3ZlciJ9fX0=" style="width: 788px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib">Electroforming can enable innovation in a wide range of applications from consumer good to medical deives. Image credit: Veco.&nbsp;The same is true for the manufacturing of high-precision optical components. Manufacturers of aperture plates—used in cameras, endoscopes, gamma-ray detectors, and more—turn to electroforming for its unparalleled precision, design freedom, and, crucially, its capacity to produce smooth, burr-free parts. The process is also common for making encoder discs used in factory automation, robotics, and other cutting-edge applications.<h2>Conclusion</h2>Electroforming's ability to create highly precise, detailed metal parts at competitive costs makes it an important choice within additive manufacturing. Its applications in emerging areas such as PIC and aerospace will also continue to expand. Further, collaborative and flexible approaches to working with designers from manufacturing suppliers such as VECO are enabling hardware designers at all scales to take engage with the advantages fo electroforming.&nbsp;<h2 id="isPasted">Co-design with VECO</h2>Netherlands-based <a href="https://www.vecoprecision.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">VECO</a>, has pioneered an advanced lithography-based technology—Advanced Lithographic Electroforming— creating new opportunities for engineering and hardware innovation.At the core of VECO’s offering is its Advanced Lithographic Electroforming technology. But the company has also built its reputation on its collaborative ethos. VECO’s application engineering and R&amp;D teams work closely with every client to design and realize innovative and optimized precision components—while always keeping efficiency and cost in mind. The company offers an end-to-end service, from concept and prototype to industrial production. It also facilitates the transition from each stage by keeping production parameters consistent.&nbsp;<img src="https://s3-us-west-1.amazonaws.com/wevolver-project-images/froala%2F1644959532159-veco+bottom+logo.jpg" style="width: 788px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib">

Based on electrodeposition, electroforming is a unique process that enables the production of accurate metal components with complex features like micro-precision perforations.

Electroforming: the additive manufacturing process for micro precision

At the beginning of the 2010s, consumers and professionals looking for an affordable 3D printer had only one option: fused deposition modeling (FDM). Initially developed by additive manufacturing giant Stratasys, FDM technology involves heating up strands of thermoplastic and depositing the molten material in successive 2D layers.In 2009, however, the Stratasys patent for FDM technology expired, which enabled a number of smaller companies to begin developing their own extrusion-style 3D printers, many of which were targeted at first-time buyers.[1] And as more and more products emerged on the market — Makerbot, Ultimaker, and others — prices rapidly decreased.But it wasn’t long before buyers had a second option for low-cost plastic 3D printing. By around 2012, companies like B9Creations and Formlabs were developing and marketing affordable 3D printers that used a completely different technology: vat photopolymerization. Instead of melting and extruding plastic, these printers used bright light to selectively cure liquid resin, producing parts with fine details and an exceptionally smooth surface finish. As with FDM, the market for SLA and DLP printers grew rapidly, and this had the effect of driving down prices.Since that time, filament and resin printing technologies have remained the two main options for consumer- and professional-level 3D printing of plastic parts. And since many consumers and professionals end up choosing directly between FDM and stereolithography 3D printers, this article aims to compare the two technologies side by side, looking at their respective pros and cons, as well as suitable uses for each.<h1 dir="ltr">What is SLA/DLP printing?</h1>Stereolithography (SLA) and digital light processing (DLP) are two closely related 3D printing technologies that both use liquid resin as a printing material. They can both be classified as vat photopolymerization technologies: the printing process takes place within a&nbsp;vat&nbsp;filled with liquid resin, and that resin undergoes&nbsp;photopolymerization, a light-induced chemical reaction where it changes from liquid to solid.So how exactly does resin 3D printing work? First, we’ll look at how photopolymerization 3D printing works in general, then we’ll see how SLA printers differ from DLP printers.<h2 dir="ltr">The resin 3D printing process</h2>Resin 3D printing technology relies on the process of photopolymerization. It uses liquid resin as a printing material, and this liquid can be turned into a solid when exposed to light. However, that doesn’t really explain how resin 3D printers are capable of creating highly detailed 3D objects such as prototypes, models, dental aligners, and jewelry patterns.To make 3D shapes, resin 3D printers work in ways that are broadly similar to other 3D printers. That is, they form successive layers of 2D shapes, resulting in a final 3D shape consisting of all those layers joined together. But their method of creating each 2D layer is highly unique: stereolithography and DLP 3D printers use a precise UV light source to cure a 2D pattern into the liquid resin; only the pattern area of the resin hardens, while the rest remains liquid.<img src="https://s3-us-west-1.amazonaws.com/wevolver-project-images/froala%2F1642437062330-stereolithography_3d_printer.jpg" style="width: 300px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib" alt="SLA am printer">SLA 3D PrinterIn order to create the following layers (and build up a 3D shape), a resin printer must create movement along the Z-axis — upwards or downwards. To achieve this, the build platform is lowered (or raised) in tiny increments after a layer has been cured.Once each layer has been cured, the hardened resin part can be removed from the 3D printer, ready for support removal and other post-processing steps. Any remaining resin can be kept and reused.The resins used for DLP and SLA printing — technically thermoset polymers — can be rigid or flexible. Some are marketed as high-strength engineering resins, while others are sold as castable resins that can be burnt out when used as patterns during investment casting.[2]&nbsp;<h2 dir="ltr">SLA vs DLP</h2>Stereolithography and digital light processing 3D printers do not use the same type of light source. SLA printers, which tend to be more expensive than DLP printers, use an ultraviolet (UV) laser to selectively cure patterns into the liquid resin.[3] These lasers effectively “draw” the pattern into the resin.DLP printers work in a different way. Instead of using a focused laser beam to draw a pattern, they use a projector lens and a series of tiny mirrors. This means that the entire 2D layer can be cured at once by flashing a 2D image into the resin tank, making the process faster than SLA.[4]A related form of resin printing is LCD printing, which is closer in nature to DLP than SLA. LCD resin printers use an LCD panel as a mask that goes between the light source and the resin in order to create 2D patterns; they are typically cheaper than both SLA and DLP systems.<h1 dir="ltr">What is FDM printing?</h1>Fused deposition modeling (FDM) — sometimes known as fused filament fabrication (FFF) — is the dominant form of 3D printing today. This is partly due to its popularity with beginners and hobbyists, though there are plenty of professional and industrial users of FDM 3D printers too: high-end FDM printers and materials can be used to make industrial parts, aerospace components, and tooling.FDM is a plastic 3D printing technology that uses spools of thermoplastic filament as feedstock. During the printing process, the filament is gently unwound from the spool, heated up, then deposited in layers using an extruder. Once the molten plastic is deposited (first onto the build plate, then onto subsequent layers) it cools down and solidifies, creating a hard plastic part. In some cases, the print bed is heated to improve bed adhesion.<img src="https://s3-us-west-1.amazonaws.com/wevolver-project-images/froala%2F1642437222682-filament_3d_printer.jpg" style="width: 300px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib" alt="3d printer that prints a filament">Filament 3D Printer To make each layer into a precise 2D shape, the printhead moves on rails along the X and Y axes while it deposits material from a nozzle. This linear movement is achieved via motors controlled by computer instructions. When a layer is complete, the printhead moves incrementally along the Z-axis (upwards) on another rail, then begins the next layer.Although it has its limitations, FDM is a versatile and reliable 3D printing process compatible with a huge range of plastic filaments; materials include affordable thermoplastics like PLA, engineering materials like polycarbonate, and high-performance materials like PEEK, as well as various blends and composites. Filament printing processes are most frequently used for prototyping, though they can also produce end-use parts.<h1 dir="ltr">Resin vs filament 3D printing</h1>Resin and filament 3D printing are two distinct processes that use different materials and technologies. As such, resin printed parts and filament printed parts can be very different.<h2 dir="ltr">Print quality</h2>On the whole, resin 3D printing processes can achieve better resolution, better surface finish, and can generally produce more high-quality parts than extrusion processes.When it comes to very fine features, a process like SLA can produce a high level of dimensional accuracy. Many SLA 3D printers are capable of printing layer heights as low as 25 microns, while most FDM 3D printers can only achieve around 100 microns.[5] Resin printers can also meet very tight tolerances.Resin printers also have the edge when it comes to surface finish. FDM 3D printing often produces layer lines (visible ridges between layers along the Z-axis) that need to be removed through sanding or other post-processing steps (which alter the final dimensions of the printed part). But SLA and DLP processes produce exceptionally smooth parts that require minimal post-processing besides support removal.Finally, parts printed with filament may be more susceptible to warping and deformation than those made from resin. This is due to the inevitable temperature fluctuations that occur during FDM printing.<h2 dir="ltr">Printed part durability</h2>While resin 3D printers can produce better quality parts than filament printers, they fall short when it comes to part strength and durability. Resin parts are often weak and brittle, so they have relatively few end-use applications.Not all filament is equally durable — PLA filament, for example, produces fairly brittle parts — but the huge range of material possibilities for FDM 3D printing means that very strong parts can be made. Affordable ABS filament can lead to durable parts that are tough and resistant to high temperatures, while more expensive plastics like polycarbonate and nylon produce even better results.Another advantage of filament 3D printing over resin 3D printing is its compatibility with composite materials. Thermoplastics like PLA and ABS can be reinforced with, for example, fiberglass or carbon fiber, making the printed parts far stronger.[6] This kind of reinforcement is not possible with liquid resins.<h2 dir="ltr">Build volume</h2>As a general rule, filament 3D printers have larger build areas than resin 3D printers. So while resin printers are great for highly detailed miniature parts, FDM is better for large prints.We can look at the build volumes of some market-leading products to see the difference. The incredibly popular Formlabs Form 2 SLA printer has a volume of 145 × 145 × 175 mm, which is smaller than popular FDM printers like the Ultimaker 3 (215 × 215 × 200 mm), Makerbot Replicator 2 (285 x 153 x 155 mm), and Prusa i3 MK3S (250 x 210 x 210 mm).Industrial large-format FDM 3D printers such as the BigRep Pro (1020 × 970 × 985 mm) and Stratasys F770 (1000 × 610 × 610 mm) offer huge build volumes but at a much higher price point than consumer FDM 3D printers.But while filament printing is generally better for large prints, it is possible to achieve large-format resin 3D printing if the stereolithography apparatus uses a top-down configuration rather than a bottom-up one. Bottom-up printers (i.e. most desktop resin printers) have a light source underneath the resin tank and build the part upside down. Top-down printers, however, have a light source above the resin tank and move the build platform downwards. More often used in industrial settings, these printers require a full tank of liquid resin but can print much larger parts.Within resin printing, SLA is better for large-format printing than DLP. DLP printers use projectors with a finite resolution (measured in pixels), so while it is technically possible to print large parts, resolution must be sacrificed to achieve the larger size. The principle is similar to using a video projector at home: if you place the projector close to the wall, the image will be small but sharp; if you move it further away, the image becomes larger but you can see the individual pixels.<h2 dir="ltr">Printing speed</h2>Comparing the printing speed of filament and resin 3D printers is difficult because there are many factors to consider.Firstly, not all resin printing technologies are the same: DLP is typically much faster than SLA, since it can cure a whole layer at once. However, since build volumes tend to be very small with DLP, it is usually not possible to print batches of objects during a single print job. So while the actual printing may be slower on SLA, it can achieve faster throughput if multiple units are required.FDM 3D printing sits somewhere between DLP and SLA when it comes to pure print speed, but some filaments must be printed very slowly to avoid warping and deformation. And again, filament 3D printers can have much larger build volumes than resin printers, which enables batch printing and faster throughput of duplicate parts.Finally, 3D printers (of all technologies) tend to have adjustable speeds, allowing the users to balance print times with print quality.<h1 dir="ltr">Conclusion</h1>Resin and filament 3D printers have their own unique characteristics and advantages, so when choosing between them, it is better to ask “what will the 3D printer be used for?” rather than “which 3D printing technology is better?”On the whole, resin 3D printers are best for producing small, detailed parts with an excellent surface finish. But filament printers come out on top when it comes to large or durable parts — especially those with demanding end-use applications. Resin printers are suitable for parts like castable patterns, visual prototypes, and dental devices, while filament printers offer a broader range of applications, including functional prototypes, industrial parts, and large-scale models.<h1 dir="ltr">References</h1>[1] Schoffer F. How expiring patents are ushering in the next generation of 3D printing [Internet]. TechCrunch. TechCrunch; 2016 [cited 2022Jan14]. Available from: <a href="https://techcrunch.com/2016/05/15/how-expiring-patents-are-ushering-in-the-next-generation-of-3d-printing" target="_blank">https://techcrunch.com/2016/05/15/how-expiring-patents-are-ushering-in-the-next-generation-of-3d-printing</a>[2] Formlabs 3D Printing Materials Library [Internet]. Formlabs. [cited 2022Jan14]. Available from: <a href="https://formlabs.com/uk/materials" target="_blank">https://formlabs.com/uk/materials</a>[3] Stereolithography [SLA] parts on demand: Stratasys Direct [Internet]. Stratasys. [cited 2022Jan14]. Available from: <a href="https://www.stratasysdirect.com/technologies/stereolithography" target="_blank">https://www.stratasysdirect.com/technologies/stereolithography</a>[4] SLA, DLP, and LCD resin 3D printer-what are the main difference? [Internet]. Creality. [cited 2022Jan14]. Available from: <a href="https://www.creality.com/blog-detail/sla-dlp-and-lcd-resin-3d-printer-difference" target="_blank">https://www.creality.com/blog-detail/sla-dlp-and-lcd-resin-3d-printer-difference</a>[5] Compare formlabs SLA 3D printers tech specs [Internet]. Formlabs. [cited 2022Jan14]. Available from: <a href="https://formlabs.com/uk/3d-printers/form-3/tech-specs/" target="_blank">https://formlabs.com/uk/3d-printers/form-3/tech-specs/</a>[6] Heidari-Rarani M, Rafiee-Afarani M, Zahedi AM. Mechanical characterization of FDM 3D printing of continuous carbon fiber reinforced PLA composites. Composites Part B: Engineering. 2019;175:107147.

When it comes to desktop 3D printing, buyers have two main options: resin printers that use photopolymerization technology, or filament printers that extrude molten thermoplastic. Both have their strengths and weaknesses.

Resin vs Filament 3D  Printers: Pros and Cons of Curing and Extrusion

PLA is an affordable and reliable workhorse filament for FDM 3D printing. But some material developers claim to have made PLA filament better by mixing it with additives, creating an enhanced variant of the material called PLA+.

PLA vs PLA+: A Comprehensive Comparison

Veco's Advanced Lithographic Electroforming process is a unique combination of unparalleled electroforming industry experience, advanced lithography technology and in-depth knowledge of metallurgy. It includes 6 steps.1) Cleaning A sheet substrate is cleaned and degreased. 2) Coating The cleaned metal "raw part" is then coated with a light-sensitive photoresist. 3) Exposure The metal sheet is then exposed to ultraviolet light which cures the photoresist layer. 4) Development After the image has been transferred by UV exposure, the substrate is developed, rinsed and dried. 5) Deposition An electrolytic bath is used to deposit metal onto the patterned surface. 6) Removal The electroformed part can be removed from the substrate after the material has been plated to the desired thickness. 7) Inspection Comprehensive inspection by experts.

Electroforming: Additive Manufacturing Atom by Atom

Electroforming is an additive manufacturing process specialized for the production of high precision metal parts. Its uniqueness is that you can grow metal parts atom by atom, providing extreme accuracy and high aspect ratios.

Advanced Lithographic Electroforming: process animation step by step

Everything you need to know about how silicone additive manufacturing works, its benefits, applications, and more. 

Can you 3D print silicone?

Most 3D printing technologies work in a broadly similar way. They form a precise 2D shape — by extruding, <a href="https://www.wevolver.com/article/knowing-how-long-to-cure-resin-prints" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">curing</a>, or sintering material, for example — then add successive 2D shapes on top of the original one. The end result is a 3D object, with each layer tightly fused together.The process of laminated object manufacturing (LOM) is different to most 3D printing processes, though most engineers consider it a form of 3D printing. Uniquely, laminated object manufacturing uses a laser cutter to cut away sections of material in order to give the part its final shape, making it both additive (like 3D printing) and subtractive (like machining). It also resembles traditional printing, because it can use reams of ordinary office paper as feedstock.LOM is a low-cost rapid prototyping process unlike any other. And although its uses are somewhat limited, it remains an intriguing manufacturing technology for prototyping and modeling.<h2 id="isPasted">What is LOM?</h2>Laminated object manufacturing is a rapid prototyping process that bonds and cuts sheet material with a computer-controlled laser.First developed and marketed by California-based Helisys in 1991, LOM emerged as a commercial manufacturing solution the same year Stratasys introduced fused deposition modeling (FDM). [1] Helisys became Cubic Technologies in the year 2000, but is no longer in business. Mcor Technologies, founded in 2005, was another major LOM hardware company that improved the process by adding full-color capabilities. Its assets were acquired in 2019 by Irish company CleanGreen3D, which continues to develop LOM systems. [2]LOM is conceptually very different to a process like FDM. It involves bonding layers of material with an adhesive substance — creating a laminate that is much stronger than its individual layers — and laser cutting precise shapes into each layer.Though more rudimentary than today’s cutting-edge additive manufacturing processes, LOM offers important benefits like cheap feedstock, colorization, and use in normal working environments such as offices.<h2 id="isPasted">How does Laminated Object Manufacturing work?</h2>Laminated object manufacturing comprises two main steps. The first step is the lamination of sheet material; the second step is the cutting of that material with a computer-controlled laser (or cutting tool).The lamination process involves layering sheets of material one on top of the next, applying pressure and heat while using an adhesive to bind each layer together. Material is typically fed onto the build platform using rollers, with adhesive applied through a nozzle. After a layer has been rolled onto the build platform, a computer-controlled laser or cutting tool slices a 2D pattern (a cross-section of the 3D part) into it. This process is repeated layer by layer. Once the final layer has been sliced, excess material can be pulled or chiseled away, leaving behind only the precisely shaped 3D part(s).<iframe width="640" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/GUvnz0borAI?&amp;wmode=opaque&amp;rel=0&amp;enablejsapi=1&amp;origin=https://www.wevolver.com" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="" class="fr-draggable" data-lf-form-tracking-inspected-kn9eq4roawkarlvp="true" data-lf-yt-playback-inspected-kn9eq4roawkarlvp="true" data-lf-vimeo-playback-inspected-kn9eq4roawkarlvp="true" data-gtm-yt-inspected-10="true" id="360474519" title="Laminated Object Manufacturing"></iframe> LOM can create 3D shapes because each 2D pattern sliced onto the material represents a single cross-section of the 3D shape being built. For example, a cone shape can be created by slicing a large circle into the first layer, then slicing circles of ever-decreasing size into each subsequent layer, culminating in a single point on the final layer.Removal of the excess material can be simplified by “cross-hatching” areas outside of the model. By doing so, small cubes of the excess material can be pulled away, which is easier than removing large sections.<h2 id="isPasted">Suitable lamination materials</h2>Though principally known as a paper 3D printing technology, laminated object manufacturing can process a few types of material — depending on the particular machine.<h3>Paper</h3>Ordinary copy paper is the most popular feedstock for LOM, and the ability to use such a low-cost material is also one of the main advantages of the technology. [3]Although paper is not suitable for demanding mechanical applications, it becomes surprisingly rigid when laminated, exhibiting wood-like material properties. Incorporating hard-setting resin or other materials into the adhesive binder can further increase the solidity of the paper parts.Another advantage of paper is that some LOM machines (such as the CG-1 from CleanGreen3D) can use inkjet technology to color paper at the edges where it will be cut. This enables the low-cost <a href="https://www.wevolver.com/article/how-to-make-a-3d-model-for-printing" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">production of full-color 3D models</a>.<h3>Metal</h3>Some LOM hardware can process sheet metal in thin gauges. This results in a stronger laminated part, though stronger adhesive and a higher degree of heat may be required, and costs are higher than they are with paper.A LOM variant called ultrasonic consolidation (UC) or ultrasonic additive manufacturing (UAM) deals exclusively with metals. Popularized by metal AM company Fabrisonic, the UC process creates ultrasonic vibrations to fuse the metal sheets, typically using a CNC mill rather than a laser to cut shapes in each layer. [4]<h3>Plastic</h3>Polymer sheets are another possibility for LOM printers. However, use of polymer sheeting instead of paper reduces the environmental friendliness of the technology.<h3>Composites</h3>Researchers and companies have successfully used LOM systems to print polymer-based composites reinforced with materials like carbon fibers and ceramics.<h2 id="isPasted">Applications of Laminated Object Manufacturing</h2>Laminated object manufacturing is not a like-for-like replacement for other 3D printing techniques, but it is highly suited to a handful of applications.In the area of rapid prototyping, LOM represents an affordable route to prototypes of various shapes and sizes. Though not as dimensionally accurate as other additive processes, LOM can be used to fabricate visual prototypes for business proposals, demonstrations, color matching, and other purposes. LOM systems may be appealing for companies that want to carry out in-house prototyping within an office environment.The ability to colorize paper LOM parts makes the technology suitable for full-color models such as marketing props, toys, and “3D printed selfies.” Color 3D printing, which is useful for both decorative and functional objects, has historically been dominated by processes like PolyJet 3D printing from Stratasys. Some color models may have to be printed on a larger-than-usual scale due to the low level of dimensional accuracy offered by LOM.Paper LOM 3D printing is an excellent means of making architectural models, which have traditionally often been made by hand from balsa wood. Laminated paper offers similar material characteristics to wood, but digital fabrication using LOM is much faster and more accurate than manual model making.Manufacturers carrying out sand casting or investment casting can use LOM to make sacrificial patterns. [5] An engineer can design a 3D object using CAD software, print it in paper using LOM hardware, then build a sand mold around it. The paper pattern can then be burnt out, creating a cavity within the mold, and the casting material can be poured in.<h2 id="isPasted">Pros and Cons of Laminated Object Manufacturing</h2>Laminated object manufacturing offers some highly desirable benefits, including affordability, a large printing envelope, and usability in offices. It also has its drawbacks, such as low accuracy and certain geometrical limitations.<table style="width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td style="width: 50.0000%;">Pros</td><td style="width: 50.0000%;">Cons</td></tr><tr><td style="width: 50.0000%;">Paper feedstock more affordable than typical 3D printing materials</td><td style="width: 50.0000%;">Less dimensionally accurate than most 3D printing processes</td></tr><tr><td style="width: 50.0000%;">Machines can be operated in non-industrial environments</td><td style="width: 50.0000%;">Complex internal geometries difficult or impossible to achieve, since material must be manually removed</td></tr><tr><td style="width: 50.0000%;">Potential for colorization</td><td style="width: 50.0000%;">Few companies developing hardware; possibility of obsolescence</td></tr><tr><td style="width: 50.0000%;">Can fabricate large objects with open build area</td><td style="width: 50.0000%;">Hardware more expensive than FDM</td></tr><tr><td style="width: 50.0000%;">Can fabricate overhangs, since preceding layers of material act as a support</td><td style="width: 50.0000%;">Paper parts can absorb unwanted moisture unless carefully treated with sealant</td></tr><tr><td style="width: 50.0000%;">Can create composite laminates by alternately layering one material then another</td><td style="width: 50.0000%;">Few users worldwide, making it difficult to find online tips and solutions from other users</td></tr></tbody></table><h2>Conclusion</h2>Laminated object manufacturing occupies its own space in the 3D printing landscape. The process provides advantages that are difficult to find elsewhere, and its ability to print 3D objects from paper makes it one of the most environmentally friendly 3D printing options.Companies that need a low-cost, low-maintenance rapid prototyping solution might find LOM to be a perfect fit. The process is certainly hard to beat when it comes to making quick visual models. On the other hand, companies investing in their first 3D printer might consider LOM a riskier proposition than a process like FDM, since the overall number of hardware developers and users is low.Looking forward, paper 3D printing may well remain a niche concern, but LOM-adjacent additive manufacturing technologies like ultrasonic consolidation could become powerful tools in the modern factory.<hr><h2>References</h2>[1] Wohlers T, Gornet T. Viewpoint: History of Additive Fabrication (Part 1). Time-Compression Technologies. (March/April 2008).[2] About Us • CleanGreen3D [Internet]. CleanGreen3D. 2021 [cited 2021Oct25]. Available from: https://cleangreen3d.com/about-us/&nbsp;[3] LOM (Laminated Object Manufacturing): 3D printing with layers of paper [Internet]. Sculpteo. [cited 2021Oct25]. Available from: https://www.sculpteo.com/en/glossary/lom-definition/[4] Technology [Internet]. Fabrisonic. 2018 [cited 2021Oct25]. Available from: https://fabrisonic.com/technology/&nbsp;[5] Chang K-H. Rapid Prototyping. In: Chang K-H, editor. e-Design. Cambridge, Massachusetts: Academic Press; 2015. p. 743–86.

Laminated object manufacturing (LOM) is a unique rapid prototyping process that combines additive and subtractive elements. This article explores its characteristics, benefits, and applications.


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The State of 3D Printing 2020 is out! As you may know, each year, Sculpteo launches its annual survey to collect information and data about how 3D printing is used all over the world. Professionals from every sector possible answered this survey. This year we are happy to present our biggest study ever made, with once again, a lot of interesting information and insights regarding how additive manufacturing is used.&nbsp;What will you find in this report? You will discover how 3D printing is being used by professionals, what are the main trends in the 3D printing industry, and the evolution of the market.&nbsp;You can download our complete <a href="https://www.sculpteo.com/en/ebooks/state-of-3d-printing-report-2020/" target="_blank">State of 3D Printing 2020</a> report for free!<h2>The State of 3D Printing 2020: Discover our biggest study</h2>Indeed, more than 1600 individuals answered this survey, which makes it our biggest survey in six years. The increasing number of respondents is actually allowing us to create an in-depth analysis of the additive manufacturing industry. We would like to thank all the 3D printing users who took the time to answer this survey, offering us the opportunity to create this survey with solid data.This survey is important for us, at Sculpteo, but also for all the 3D printing industry. Indeed, this report is also important for any 3D printing companies, developing services, materials, or machines, for example. It is a new way for them to understand users’ needs. It also highlights the trends of the additive manufacturing industry and helps to see what are the main evolutions one year to another.We hope that you will all enjoy the reading of the State of 3D Printing 2020 edition, that you will learn more about additive manufacturing and find all the information you need to improve your business strategy.<h2>What will you find in this study?</h2><h3>How is 3D printing used by professionals?</h3>The State of 3D Printing is a great overview of the additive manufacturing industry. You will learn more about 3D printing users on a professional level. Which industry making the most of this technology, what kind of companies are using additive manufacturing, and what are the roles of 3D printing users in these companies?You will also find out how this technology is used, what are the most used technologies and materials. Additive manufacturing is shaping new business models and new strategies, this might give you some interesting insights on how to build your own strategy and how to implement 3D printing in the best way. <img src="https://s3-us-west-1.amazonaws.com/wevolver-project-images/froala%2F1592231883275-State+of+3D+Printing+-+uses.jpg" style="width: 714px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib"> <h3>How is 3D printing helping you grow your business?</h3>You’ll get a strong analysis about the speed of innovation, complex designs, prototyping, production, tooling, and mechanical parts, and you will see where 3D printing users and businesses are finding the most interesting benefits while using this game-changing technology.How and why 3D printing users are investing in additive manufacturing?The State of 3D Printing 2020 highlights some interesting facts about how professionals and businesses are investing in 3D printing. Indeed, they are investing more and more in this technology. Aren’t you curious to discover why? Let’s see how 3D printing is becoming a real asset for companies by changing and improving their business strategy! <img src="https://s3-us-west-1.amazonaws.com/wevolver-project-images/froala%2F1592231940306-State+of+3D+Printing+-+Growth.jpg" style="width: 718px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib"> <h3>What are the limitations of 3D printing?</h3>We will also go further a see what are the limitations of this technology, what are the aspects where 3D printing needs to improve to appeal more industries are more sectors. This year, we took a look into the future of the industry and the factors affecting its growth and adoption within businesses. Where does additive manufacturing need to improve to accelerate its adoption?&nbsp;<h3>Six years of State of 3D Printing</h3>This is the 6th edition of the State of 3D Printing. We’ve learned a lot of things about the use of additive manufacturing over the past years, but we also saw new trends emerging, and evolutions of 3D printing users’ habits. This report is also the perfect occasion to make a little review of what happened in the additive manufacturing world these past six years.&nbsp;Are you ready to discover our report and get inspired? <a href="https://www.sculpteo.com/en/ebooks/state-of-3d-printing-report-2020/" target="_blank">Download your State of 3D Printing 2020</a> for free.Don’t forget to check out our previous editions of The State of 3D Printing:<ul><li><a href="https://www.sculpteo.com/en/ebooks/state-of-3d-printing-report-2019/" target="_blank">State of 3D Printing 2019</a></li><li><a href="https://www.sculpteo.com/en/ebooks/state-of-3d-printing-report-2018/" target="_blank">State of 3D Printing 2018</a></li><li><a href="https://www.sculpteo.com/en/ebooks/state-of-3d-printing-report-2017/" target="_blank">State of 3D Printing 2017</a></li><li><a href="https://www.sculpteo.com/en/ebooks/state-of-3d-printing-report-2016/" target="_blank">State of 3D Printing 2016</a></li><li><a href="https://www.sculpteo.com/en/ebooks/state-of-3d-printing-report-2015/" target="_blank">State of 3D Printing 2015</a></li></ul>If you have any questions about 3D printing, or about this study, don’t hesitate to <a href="https://www.sculpteo.com/en/contact/" target="_blank">contact us</a>.

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