How 3D Printers Work

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In “how 3D printers work | How Things Work with Kamri Noel,” Kamri, a curious student, embarks on a mission to unravel the secrets of her school’s new 3D printers. She enlists the help of Cody Goldhahn, a mechanical engineer and National Geographic expert, to shed light on the complex process. As they delve into the topic, Cody explains how 3D printers utilize an additive process, where material is gradually added layer by layer to create a desired shape. Kamri’s fascination grows as she discovers the wide range of materials that can be used for printing, including plastic, ceramics, glass, metal, and even biological tissues. From printing tiny cats to constructing houses and dental implants, the possibilities of 3D printers appear to be boundless.

With Cody’s guidance, Kamri learns that the printer relies on a digital model, which is sliced into layers and then constructed according to the exact specifications of the blueprint. She compares this process to icing a cake, with the extruder nozzle maneuvering carefully to create each layer. As Kamri expresses her awe and gratitude for the newfound knowledge, Cody reveals his occupation and leaves Kamri with the promise of more episodes to explore and a reminder to subscribe to Nat Geo Kids for further educational content.

Table of Contents

What is a 3D printer?

A 3D printer is a revolutionary technology that allows you to bring your digital designs to life by creating three-dimensional objects layer by layer. Unlike traditional manufacturing methods, 3D printing utilizes an additive process, where material is added to form the object, rather than a subtractive process, where material is removed.

The additive process

The additive process is at the heart of how 3D printers work. Unlike carving a sculpture out of stone or wood, which involves removing unwanted material, a 3D printer builds an object layer by layer, adding material where it is needed. This process is more efficient and reduces waste, as only the required amount of material is used.

To visualize this process, imagine a baker icing a cake. In the case of a 3D printer, instead of icing, a hot extruder nozzle squeezes out liquid plastic or other materials, following instructions from a computer program. Once one layer is complete, the extruder raises slightly to allow for the next layer to be added on top. This layer-by-layer approach allows for the precise construction of complex shapes.

Printing with different materials

One of the incredible capabilities of 3D printers is their ability to print with a wide range of materials. While most people are familiar with printing objects using plastics, 3D printers can also work with ceramics, glass, metal, and even biological tissue. Scientists have been able to develop techniques to print with living cells, opening up possibilities for advancements in medicine and tissue engineering.

The possibilities of 3D printers

The possibilities of 3D printers are virtually endless. From printing customized prosthetic limbs to constructing complex architectural models, 3D printers are revolutionizing various industries. These machines can even print houses, dental implants, bridges, and yes, even pizza! The ability to print objects in different shapes, sizes, and materials has truly transformed the way we approach design and manufacturing.

Creating a digital model

To bring an object to life using a 3D printer, you first need to create a digital model of it on a computer. This is where you, as the toy designer, come into play. Using specialized software, you can design any object you can imagine, from simple shapes to intricate structures. The computer then takes your digital model and slices it into thin layers, just like the layers of icing on a cake.

Once the computer knows the exact position and configuration of each layer, it instructs the 3D printer to begin printing. The printer’s extruder nozzle moves precisely, following the instructions from the computer, and deposits the material on the build platform layer by layer. This process continues until the entire model is printed, replicating your design from the blueprint.

Conclusion

Understanding how 3D printers work opens up a world of possibilities for creation and innovation. By harnessing the power of additive manufacturing, these machines have the potential to transform industries and revolutionize the way we produce objects. We appreciate the expertise of Cody Goldhahn in helping us understand the basics of 3D printing. If you want to explore more captivating episodes of “How Things Work,” make sure to watch them. And don’t forget to subscribe to Nat Geo Kids for more exciting content.

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